When you plan a trip to southeast Asia, you probably chose exotic countries for your holiday vacations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Laos, Malaysia etc. But there is one offbeat country which is highly popular it astonishing travel locations and brilliant architectural buildings. This country is famous as the “The Adobe of Peace” and it is Brunei !!
My blog is dedicated to this tiniest southeast Asian country – Brunei which is still unexplored and should be in the bucket list of every travel lover. Let’s Begin-
Overview of Brunei
Brunie is best known throughout the globe for its Islamic architecture and the oil-rich sultanate of Borneo. It is also known as Brunei Darussalam and it is popular in Southeast Asia for impressive mosques, unparallel biodiversity and amazing culture. It is one of the most developed, safest and cleanest countries in Asia making it best for solo travellers.
Many of the museums and palaces of Brunei can be visited free of cost to make it an affordable destination in Asia. This Muslim country is packed with so many attractions that will surely leave tourists tripping and marvelling at the unbelievable buildings.
From visiting beautiful mosques and seeing wildlife, here are the top attractions to view at Brunei
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the iconic landmark and the most lavish mosque of Brunei. It is located in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan and renowned as Southeast Asia’s most beautiful places of worship. This gorgeous mosque is standing tall near the Brunei River and waterfront with an impressive artificial lagoon.
If you get time to stay at night the stunning mosque is illuminated which is truly a sight to behold for every traveller. The highlight of the mosque, the main dome, is covered in pure gold. The visitors can climb to the top of the mosque minaret through an elevator and bask in the sweeping panoramic view of the city.
Royal Regalia Museum
Royal Regalia Museum is established at Bandar Seri Begawan and it is dedicated to the Sultan of Brunei. It depicts the life of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and the history of royal work and rule. The most interesting one which you must watch is the replica of Sultan’s throne. It is home to some of the most valuable items of the royal family as well.
Royal Regalia Museum is a golden dome-shaped building which is decorated with special mosaic designs. When you see the other portion of the museum you will see to the military regalia and various other royal treasures. From gold plated plates to diamonds encrusted decoration pieces like vases, etc. there are many things to look at from various countries like Saudi Arabia, Peru, Cambodia, etc.
Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery
The water village of Kampong Ayer has its charm in Brunie. In 2009, the Kampong Ayer by Brunei Darussalam opened its Gallery of Culture and Tourism, inaugurated by His Royal Highness The Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. The gallery shows the history, customs and the culture and arts of the water town, which contains ancient arts and handicrafts from the early years of the settlement.
The gallery’s favourite feature which pulls travellers attention is the observation tower that offers tourists a stunning panoramic view of the water village itself and the spectacles of the area. You can quickly hire a water taxi from Bandar Seri Begawan’s waterfront and reach the Tourism Gallery of Kampong Ayer.
Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the most stunning structure with its 29 golden domes and is the largest mosque of Brunie. The gleaming golden domes of Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque create an aura of majesty and mystery at the same time. This architectural epitome is constructed in the 20th century.
A visit to this mosque is perfect for a day of soul-searching, soaking in the architectural marvel and getting a glimpse into the religious lives of the citizens of Brunei.
Ulu Temburong National Park
From leaving the hustle and bustle lifestyle of the city and after seeing the mosques and museums you must head towards the Ulu Temburong National Park which is located in the Temburong District in Eastern Brunei. It is well known for tropical forests and mangroves.
Being the Green Jewel of Brunie, This park is known for its nature, home to more than 40 butterfly species and the exploding ants, which are one of the rarest ants species. You can also have a chance to observe many animals and vividly coloured birds here. Adventure enthusiasts can take part in various fun activities exhilarating water tube rides, speedboat and longboat rides.
Malay Technology Museum
The Malay Technology Museum is located in Bandar Seri Bengawan, on Kota Batu Road. The museum focuses on Brunei’s traditional use of technology and is a great place to learn about the country’s cultural development. This museum portrays the origins of the Malay culture and way of life in Brunei and the seven ancient ethnic communities.
From architecture and handicrafts to boatmaking and silversmithing, this museum exhibits difficulties of original craftsmanship and some of Brunei’s famous traditional handicrafts. You can buy artwork to keep them with you as a travel memory.
Do Fun Activities at Jerudong Park
Jerudong Park is a fantastic amusement theme park located in Jerudong. You have to take a short ride from Bandar Seri Begawan to reach this theme park. It is home to a water park along with numerous rides making it one of the largest theme park in South East Asia. You can also enjoy musical and light fountain show which is quite popular there.
Take rides with kids at Carousel, Caterpillar, Bumper Cars, Juniors Pirate Ship, Scary Drop and Ice World Arctic Rapids. Enjoy sliding rides at the water park an inside the Jerudong Park. Apart from all these, we love band music the or in house performances then there is also an amphitheatre to enjoy such activities. This park is the most fun destination to relax yourself in Brunie.
Admire the Sensational Views of Bornean Sunset
The Bandar Seri Begawan is a new public space opened in Brunei to uplift the nightlife in Brunei’s capital, which is believed to have suffered in history due to lack of evening entertainment. Borneo’s sunsets are some of the most spectacular on Earth. The clouds towards the horizon create a plethora of reds, oranges and purples as the sun dips out of sight. You can witness this incredible appearance in Brunei at Muara beach.
Apart from above-mentioned attractions, you can also pay a visit to Istana Nurul Iman which is holding the Guinness Book of World Record for holding the title of the largest palace and royal residence in the world, Billionth Barrel Monument, Andulau Forest Reserve, Tasek Lama Recreational Park, Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum and Masjid kampong Pandan.
Shop at Gadong Night Market
Gadong Night Market is a bustling market in the city centre of Bandar Seri Bagawan. It is stretched in an area of 5,500 m² and has more than 160 stalls which are dedicated to food and other daily household items. It is most popular for its large selection of food in a variety of cuisines like Thai, Malay, Indian, and even continental.
Food & Cuisine of Brunei – Bruneian cuisine is one of the best-kept secrets of the country. Ambuyat is the national food of Brunei, which is eaten with a Bruneian chopstick called ‘Canda,’ is an experience in itself. You can find a variety of rice and noodle-based dishes with Malaysian-style kebabs, grilled and barbequed fish and beef. The seafood options are a must-try, especially at night markets.
Concluding here but, it is one of the most unexplored visited countries in the world and you must pay a visit once in your lifetime. After visiting you will be lured by the culture, traditions, architecture and cuisines of Brunei.
Brunei is truly the Kingdom of Hidden Treasures!
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