Day Trip to Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Nestled on the northern coast of the island of Borneo, Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. This city makes for a perfect side trip if you are summiting Mount Kota Kinabalu or seeing the orangutans in Borneo; it only takes half an hour by plane to get to BSN from Kota Kinabalu. A day trip to this enchanting city unveils a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here’s a journey through some of the highlights, using our recent visit as a guide.

Getting There: Direct Flights to Bandar Seri Begawan

Getting to Bandar Seri Begawan is convenient, with direct flights available from several major cities in Southeast Asia. Royal Brunei Airlines, the national carrier, offers direct flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Kota Kinabalu. Other airlines also provide connections, ensuring easy access to Brunei’s capital.

• From Singapore: Flights typically take around 2 hours.
• From Kuala Lumpur: The journey is about 2 hours.
• From Kota Kinabalu: The flight is a quick 30 minutes.

Arriving in Brunei: A Window Seat Perspective

As your plane descends towards Bandar Seri Begawan, make sure to have a window seat to take in the breathtaking views. The landscape below is predominantly covered with lush tropical forests, providing a stunning green tapestry that surrounds the city. This dense greenery is a stark contrast to the typical urban sprawl seen in other parts of the world, highlighting Brunei’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. The almost complete absence of farmlands underscores the country’s focus on oil and gas as its economic mainstay, leaving vast areas of unspoiled forest.

Getting to the City Center from the Airport

Upon arriving at Brunei International Airport, getting to the city center is straightforward. Here are some practical options:

• Bus: The cheapest and most practical option is by bus. Several bus routes service the airport, providing a convenient and affordable way to reach downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

  • Fare: Pay in cash directly to the driver (keep small change handy).
  • Navigation: Use Google Maps and enable location tracking to know when to get off the bus.

• Taxi: A taxi ride from the airport to the waterfront costs around BND 15-20. This option is quicker and more comfortable.

Morning: A Scenic Water Taxi Ride to See Proboscis Monkeys

Start your day at the Brunei Waterfront, where you can catch a water taxi to explore the city from a unique perspective and to potentially spot the famous Proboscis monkeys . These monkeys, known for their distinctive long noses and potbellied appearance, are endemic to Borneo and can often be seen in the mangrove forests along the river. The ride typically lasts 1 hour and costs around BND 30, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Make sure to negotiate the price before you board the boat, as it becomes harder to negotiate once you are on the boat.

During the boat ride, you might also catch a glimpse of the Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei. This grand palace is one of the largest residential palaces in the world, both in terms of floor space and total land area. It serves as the Sultan’s residence and the seat of the Brunei government.

• Unique Features: Proboscis monkeys have large noses, which are more pronounced in males, and a distinctive potbelly due to their specialized digestive system that ferments the leaves they eat.
• Tip: Early morning is the best time to see the monkeys, as they are most active during this period.

Midday: Exploring Kampong Ayer

After the water taxi ride, head over to Kampong Ayer, the largest settlement of stilt houses in the world. Known as the “Venice of the East,” this sprawling network of stilt houses stretches across the Brunei River. Walking along the wooden walkways that connect the homes, you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Interestingly, Kampong Ayer is home to both traditional and modern houses equipped with modern amenities, blending old-world charm with contemporary living.

• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth experience.
• Photography: Bring your camera; the vibrant colors and eclectic designs make for excellent photo opportunities.
• Cost: A water taxi ride across Kampong Ayer costs around BND 1.

Afternoon: A Visit to the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

After a morning immersed in the history and culture of Kampong Ayer, it’s time to head back to the mainland and visit one of Brunei’s most iconic landmarks: the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

This architectural marvel, with its striking white walls and golden domes, is surrounded by an artificial lagoon, creating a tranquil setting that enhances its grandeur. The mosque is a blend of Mughal and Malay architectural styles, featuring Italian marble floors, stained glass windows from England, and chandeliers from the United Kingdom. The luxurious interior showcases intricate Islamic art. The mosque’s 52-meter-high minaret makes it the tallest building in central Bandar Seri Begawan, and no other buildings in the area can be taller. Within the lagoon lies the Mahligai barge, a ceremonial barge that symbolizes the Sultanate’s maritime history and is often used for religious ceremonies.

• Architectural Features: The mosque’s design combines Mughal and Malay styles, resulting in a beautiful and harmonious blend of cultural influences.
• Visiting Hours: Non-Muslims can visit outside prayer times. Dress modestly (cover your arms and legs).
• Admission: Free entry.
• Inside the Mosque: Note that photography may be restricted in certain areas inside the mosque.

Practical Information

• Currency: The Brunei Dollar (BND) is the official currency. Singapore dollars are also widely accepted.
• Language: Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
• Transport: Public buses, water taxis, and taxis are the main modes of transport. Car rentals are also available.
• Dress Code: Modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Weather: Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate, so expect hot and humid conditions year-round. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and dress in light, breathable clothing.
• Safety: Brunei is known for its low crime rate, making it a safe destination for tourists.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places, but it’s useful to have a local SIM card for better connectivity.
• Accommodation: If planning to stay overnight, book accommodation in advance, as options may be limited.

Final Thoughts

A day trip to Bandar Seri Begawan offers a glimpse into the heart of Brunei. From the scenic water taxi ride to spot Proboscis monkeys to the historic Kampong Ayer, the grandeur of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, and the serene beauty of a waterfront stroll, each experience highlights the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Bandar Seri Begawan may be small, but it is full of surprises. Its blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with the warm hospitality of its people, makes it a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this charming city has something for everyone.