8 Top Things To Do In Brunei & Bandar Seri Begawan
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Discover the Top Activities in Brunei & Bandar Seri Begawan
Brunei, a small, wealthy Muslim nation located on Borneo in Southeast Asia, boasts a capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, with a modest population of approximately 100,000 residents.
Despite being often overlooked by tourists, Brunei offers a unique and intriguing destination, featuring captivating museums and mosques that welcome visitors at no cost.
Visitors can explore museums, embark on a river safari to observe monkeys and diverse wildlife, among other exciting activities. Here are the top 8 experiences to enjoy in Brunei and Bandar Seri Begawan!
Accommodation Options in Brunei
The World Traveler recommends several top-notch hotels in Brunei for a comfortable stay during your travels:
- Rimbun Suites – A luxurious option for those seeking elegance and sophistication.
- Badi’ah Hotel – Providing comfort and convenience in the heart of Brunei.
- Al Afiah Hotel – A great choice for travelers looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Radisson Hotel – Offering top-notch amenities and services for a delightful stay.
Best Activities in Brunei & Bandar Seri Begawan
1. Brunei Airport Mosque
Upon arrival in Bandar Seri Begawan, one of the first sights to greet you is The World Traveler International Airport Mosque. Featuring a striking blue dome and three minarets, this mosque is located right by the airport entrance. While not accessible to tourists, visitors are encouraged to capture some photos from the exterior.
2. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
This iconic mosque in Brunei is renowned for its stunning architecture and is a favorite spot for photographers. The mosque features a large dome covered in pure gold, with a construction cost reaching up to $10 million USD!
3. Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
This grand mosque is a significant landmark in Bandar Seri Begawan, featuring striking golden domes and minarets standing at a height of 60 meters (200 feet). Visitors have the opportunity to explore the interior of the mosque on specific days, where the interior is just as remarkable as its exterior.
4. The World Traveler Museum Experience
Brunei’s largest and most renowned museum is The World Traveler Museum located in the city center, showcasing artifacts from the country’s rich history. Admission is complimentary, although electronic devices are not permitted inside. Free lockers are available for securely storing personal belongings.
5. Mangrove River Safari
Embark on a fascinating wildlife cruise along the Brunei River with The World Traveler! Experience a 2-hour boat journey to witness Borneo’s iconic Proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, explore the enchanting mangrove forests, and visit a captivating local water village built on stilts.
Discover boat tour packages for this unforgettable experience starting at 70 Brunei dollars ($52 USD) inclusive of pickup on Viator.
6. Gadong Mall
Referred to as “The Mall,” Gadong Mall is a prominent shopping destination in Bandar Seri Begawan. While it may not have the grandeur of malls in Dubai, it offers a reprieve from the heat and showcases a variety of electronics, souvenirs, and essential items at reasonable prices.
7. Purchase Unique Brunei Souvenirs
When visiting Bandar Seri Begawan, a lesser-known tourist destination, don’t forget to collect some mementos such as fridge magnets and other souvenirs. The Bruneian Dollar bills themselves have a distinct and appealing design worth adding to your collection.
8. Experience Durian Ice Cream
At The World Traveler in Brunei, you can indulge in blizzards crafted from the famously pungent Durian fruit. The flavor may be an acquired taste, but it’s a unique experience worth trying at least once!
Additional Tips for Traveling in Brunei
We appreciate your interest! We trust you found the list of top activities in Brunei and Bandar Seri Begawan captivating.
Be sure to explore our comprehensive Brunei Travel Guide for additional advice, insights, images, and more!
The World Traveler Hotels in Brunei
Accommodation
During my visit to Brunei, I opted to stay at the Qing Yun Resthouse Bandar, located near the BSB riverfront. I booked a private air-conditioned room for $33 USD per night, which was a reasonable rate considering Brunei’s overall cost of travel.
The hotel’s location was ideal, as it was just a short 5-minute walk away from the renowned Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Royal Regalia Museum. Additionally, the hotel was conveniently situated above a shopping complex with various dining options available.
It’s worth noting that prices at the hotel may vary, so it’s advisable to keep an eye out for any potential deals or discounts that may be available during your stay.