Brunei Sights and Landmarks Guide, Brunei Darussalam

Sultanate of Brunei is located in the northwest of Borneo and is bathed by the waters of South China Sea. This paradise land is also referred to as the Abode of Peace by the locals. The state is a heaven for tourists since it is almost crime free. You can wander in the streets without the fear of purse snatching and physical harm. This can be attributed to the strict following of Islam and a very high average income.  

Royal palace 

The state has two main cities Bandar Seri Begawan and Kuala Belait to visit. Bandar Seri Begawan is the official name of Brunei’s capital. It is the only sizable city in Brunei houses some fascinating shopping malls, hotels and mosques. It also has the largest Water Village in Asia. One of the most beautiful and magnificent destination is the royal palace. You can see the palace only after Ramadan for period of three days only. It is the largest palace in world with 1,780 rooms. The golden domes of the palace are covered with 22-carat gold leaf.  

Kampong Ayer 

Kampong Ayer is the world’s largest water village situated along the riverfront in Bandar Seri Begawan. It is place that is an abode to about 30,000 people who have been living here for 1,500 years. They have unique wooden houses. You can take a look at these structures by hiring a motor-boat. You can also meet a family in this village; however you have to leave your shoes out of the house.  

Museums 

The Brunei History Center is a fascinating museum with genealogy and history of the royal family. The Muslim Life Gallery is an interesting place where you can see mannequins dressed in bridal or traditional attire. The Royal Regalia Museum displays the jewel encrusted royal attire and the huge red and gold Baroque litter on which the present Sultan was taken for his coronation in the year 1968.  

Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque 

The Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque is the largest mosque in Brunei and has the 22-carat golden dome. The mosque is surrounded by beautiful park and water fountains. Before entering the mosque people are supposed to deposit their belongings on the entrance and the ladies are supposed to wear the simple Muslim style black robe given by the staff, while in the mosque.  

Temburong National Park 

The Temburong National Park is a place for the adventurous lot. This park can only be reached by boat or plane. On your journey by boat, you will come across the mangrove swamps that are dotted with Nipa Palms. Once you reach the rainforest, the real climb begins when you have climb 1012 steps.  

Apart from all these, there is a spectacular market place having traditional crafts.