The country of Brunei, situated along the South China Sea, is separated into four distinct and gorgeous districts. Belait, Tutong, and Temburong each have a story to tell visitors, but many are most enchanted by what they find at Brunei-Muara.
Serving as the home of the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, the small district of Brunei-Muara is only 570 square kilometers. Despite having a reputation as the smallest district in the country, Brunei-Muara is home to the nation’s airport, to the bustling ports off of Brunei Bay, and to some of the country’s most active commercial districts and government offices.
More than three quarters of the land in Brunei is considered tropical rainforest. Fortunately, most of the Brunei-Muara area has been urbanized and is easy to navigate – a plus for tourists already unsure of themselves in a foreign country. There are quite a number of incredible things to see and do in Brunei-Muara. Here are just a few to get you started.
The Royal Palace
Also known as Nurul Iman Palace, or Istana Nurul Iman, the royal palace in Brunei-Muara is one of the largest residential palaces in the entire world. The palace not only serves as the home of His Majesty, but also houses the government offices of the Prime Minster.
The palace was built on a series of hills near the river, in a plush atmosphere full of thriving plant and wildlife. You’ll be astounded by the incredible combination of Malay and Islamic architectural design used to influence the creation of this site.
Jerudong Park Playground
A trip to the Jerudong Park Playground is one you’ll particularly enjoy if you have children in tow. The theme park itself opened in 1994 and, set on the South China Sea, quickly became a hit amongst locals and tourists alike.
Inside the park you’ll find a series of fun rides, including paddle boats and roller coasters. You’ll also find a series of gorgeous walkways and a train ride, both designed to guide you through the area’s tropical gardens.
The Brunei Museum
The Brunei Museum itself is an incredible site for anyone interested in the area’s past and developing history. Located in the Kota Batu area, the museum sits on the Brunei River, about 6 kilometers away from the capital city.
Inside the museum you’ll find an incredible collection of artwork depicting the development of the culture of Brunei. Some of the most impressive are the collections of old glassware, military artifacts, and old ceramics and jewelry. Of particular interest to historians is the series of paintings depicting the Holy Qur’an.
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is located in the center of the capital city Bandar Seri Begawan itself. Completed in 1958, the mosque isn’t one of the oldest in the area, but it is certainly one of the most impressive.
Inside the mosque you’ll find a number of materials, all of which were imported from different areas of the world. Amongst other things, the architects imported granite material from China, special carpets from Saudi Arabia, and incredible pieces of marble from Italy.
The mosque is closed to non-Muslims on Thursdays and Fridays. Visitors to Brunei-Muara may arrange for tours on other days.
Kampung Ayer
The small village of Kampung Ayer is another incredible site to see. The people of Brunei refer to the area as the “Venice of the East,” and for good reason. You can only get to Kampung Ayer via a small footbridge or by boat.
The village is home to more than 30,000 people, many of whom live on small houses held up over the Brunei River with stilts. Visitors to the area can explore the fascinating architecture and get to know some of the members of this close-knit community. The wooden walkways connecting the houses bring this incredible historic community together.
Warnings for Travelers
Brunei, for all intensive purposes, is considered a very safe place to visit. It is important, however, to remember that the sultanate is considered an absolute monarchy set in a strict Islamic country. You must take special care to avoid violating any type of religious law or custom while you are visiting. Don’t forget:
- Never wear revealing clothes (stick to loose, cotton clothing to help you deal with the heat);
- Never point your finger at anyone or anything;
- Never say anything ill-willed or negative about the royal family; and
- Never use your left hand to handle food.
Brunei-Muara may not be one of the largest districts in Brunei, but it is definitely the most important. No trip to Brunei is complete without a visit to this area. ENJOYY!!!
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