Enjoy Bandar Seri Begawan: Capital Of The Land Of Unexpected Treasures!

1. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

One of the city’s most famous sights, this spectacular mosque was built to commemorate a former leader, Sultan Omar. Seen from far and wide, it becomes even more magical as you draw closer. Built from pale stone and topped with a large glorious golden dome, the main entrance is flanked by imposing towers, also with smaller golden domes on top.

The towering minaret is the tallest structure in the city, and you will probably hear the evocative call to prayer during your stay in the city. There is a shimmering reflecting pool around the revered religious site, complete with a stone replica of an elegant royal boat.

Visitors can don a long black robe (provided) if they wish to look inside. Head scarves are also provided for females. Even though garments are provided, visitors are still reminded to dress and act respectfully when enjoying the beautiful grounds. The mosque is open to the public outside of prayer times, when people can step inside and admire the exquisite Italian marble, plush carpets, and ornate stained glass windows and chandeliers.

It is highly recommended to visit both during the day and after dark. Although you cannot enter the grounds at night, you will be able to enjoy the mosque illuminated in all its fabulous glory.

2. Jame’ Asr Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque

Often shortened to simply the Jame’ Asr mosque and sometimes referred to locally as the Blue Mosque, this gorgeous architectural masterpiece honours the country’s present Sultan. It was built to mark 25 years of his rule.

Holding the title of Brunei’s biggest mosque, it boasts 29 glinting domes. An enormous lavish golden dome takes pride of place on top of the main part of the building.

From the outside, you can gaze with admiration upon the light stonework inlaid with pretty powder blue tiles. The four soaring minarets add to the grandeur and splendor, and the grounds also contain sparkling pools and beautiful fountains. Non-Muslim guests must register and join a guided tour to enjoy the inside. These take place throughout the day, outside of prayer times.

3. Royal Regalia Museum

Filled with a dazzling array of treasures and jewels, the Royal Regalia Museum proudly displays the many opulent gifts given to the Sultan during his reign. Commemorative plates, ceremonial daggers, dainty tea sets, intricate ornaments, pictures, portraits, silverware, glassware, and furniture inlaid with gems are just a few of the luxurious items that you can feast your eyes upon.

A scale replica of the Sultan’s Silver Jubilee, complete with life-size foot soldiers in formal military attire and a large parade float, can be found in one room, whilst another side room houses a selection of photographs of the royal family. Yet another room contains an impressive selection of military clothing, and you can also see gleaming jewel-encrusted crowns and a replica of the Sultan’s throne. Free to enter, this is a top attraction in Bandar Seri Begawan.

4. Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Want to escape city life and relax in nature as the locals do? Then head to the peaceful Tasek Lama Recreational Park – a lovely slice of tranquility in the heart of the city.

Particularly popular in the late afternoons and evenings, you’ll see people doing a variety of sports, kids playing on the colourful playground equipment, and locals relaxing on the benches amongst the pretty flowers.

There is a hilly walking trail to follow as well as a small waterfall to visit. Look out for people walking bare-foot on a patch of stony ground; a form of reflexology that is believed to improve circulation and overall well-being, why not have a go too?

5. Kampong Ayer (Water Village)

One of the biggest water villages in the world, the traditional housing of Kampong Ayer can be seen stretching out from across the water. You can take a closer peek by hopping in a water taxi and strolling around the boardwalks or by crossing over by foot on one of the bridges. Alternatively, boat tours will take you around several parts of the water village, often including a visit to the dense mangroves where it is sometimes possible to spot the curious long-nosed proboscis monkeys.

Houses are perched over the water on stilts, with interconnected walkways to make getting around easy. You’ll see a range of local amenities and facilities too, such as schools, stores, medical centres, a police station, and a fire station. A small museum, the Water Village Cultural and Tourism Museum, gives a good overview of the area’s history and culture and offers free admission.