Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
It was built in 1958 and named after the 28th Sultan, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien. This mosque dominates the city centre of Bandar Seri Begawan. It is one of the most magnificent mosques in the whole of SouthEast Asia, and a symbol of a Islamic faith of the people of Brunei. Located in the lagoon beside the mosque is a replica of a 16th Century Mahligai barge, which was used to stage colourful religious ceremonies, such as Koran reading competitions during the 1960’s and early 1970’s. Along the way to the mosque, you will see the Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien and the Yayasan Shopping Mall.
The Royal Regalia
The Royal Regalia Museum is home to the Sultanate’s heirlooms and regalia. From golden chariots to olden-day symbolic weapons and shields, exhibits of His Majesty’s Silver and Golden Jubilee celebrations, and ornate mementos from historic Brunei, this museum is embellished with the beauty of Brunei’s past.
Kampong Ayer
Early European visitors to Brunei Darussalam described the Kampong Ayer or Water Village, as the “Venice of the East”. Today, visitors continue to be fascinated by these traditional and historic houses on stilts which span the greater part of the Brunei River. Home for about 30,000 people, the Kampong Ayer is accessible by boat or via wooden bridges.
The houses in Kampong Ayer are joined by a maze of inter-connecting wooden walkways and visitors are free to roam at their leisure. His Majesty’s government has provided every modern facility for the residents, including schools, clinics, police stations and mosques. A visit to Brunei Darussalam would be incomplete without a trip to this unique and intriguing place.
How to get there:
Take water taxi along the canal beside hotel or Jetty of Yayasan shopping mall (along the Brunei River).
Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas
The Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas is a 12-hectare riverfront park situated alongside the grand Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the tranquil water village, Kampong Ayer. Enjoy a walk down the promenade, where you can bask in the tranquil gardens full of tulips and baobab trees. Many come here to enjoy a peaceful sunset stroll. You can even rent a 2-seater, 4-seater or 6-seater bicycle for a captivating ride with your family. If you’re strolling after dark, watch the monuments as they light up the park! Don’t forget to stop by The Frame Brunei Darussalam to snap a commemorative photo of your trip to Brunei!
Tamu Kianggeh
Located at the banks of Kianggeh river where the waterways are constantly busy with motorboats zooming by, the market features a variety of local vegetables like edible ferns and medicinal herbs. Also on sale are fishermen’s catch of the day as well as ready-cooked local dishes that’ll whet your appetite for that distinct Bruneian flavour! The market is open daily from 0800 hours to 1730 hours, with Friday morning being their most bustling time! However most stalls would pack up by noon so we suggest you head there in the morning.