Although many areas are accessible only to the most resourceful natural historian, the casual visitor can enjoy locally organised tours of the Temburong district, including excursions to the interior by jeep and long boat. Venturing along the Belait and Tutong rivers can be arranged, and, in Bandar Seri Begawan, sunset dinner cruises regularly ply the Brunei River.
With its natural waterfall and lake, Tasek Recreational Park is an oasis in the heart of the capital, and Muara Beach (27km from the capital) remains the most popular spot along the country’s sandy coastline.
The capital city also offers insights into the nation’s culture and history. The brightly painted houses on stilts of Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village, hover above the water near both banks of the Brunei river and is home to more than 30,000 people. Stroll along the wooden walkways which link the houses or try a death defying water-taxi ride for a taste of water village life.
The elegant Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque dominates the inner city skyline with its distinctive golden dome and minarets. A structure resembling a 16th-century royal barge is "moored" in the adjoining lagoon. Visitors are welcome to view the gold mosaic, stained glass and marble interior of the mosque, but should leave shoes outside the door. Consideration for people at prayer, and the donning of modest attire, including a head covering for women, is advised and appreciated (see "Customs and Courtesy"). Further south, in Gadong, the grand scale and opulence of the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque reflects the importance of Islam in Brunei.
Three kilometres west of Bandar Seri Begawan’s city centre lies the Istana Nurul Iman, residence of His Majesty The Sultan and seat of the nation’s government. The palace is open to the public during the festival of Hari Raya Puasa, when His Majesty and members of the royal family personally greet each visitor. The building’s golden domes and sweeping rooflines can be glimpsed from the road (Jalan Tutong), or from the leafy, waterfront walkways of nearby Persiaran Damuan, the popular park which is the site of ASEAN Square and a bevy of modern sculptures.
Tourist information about another destination in Brunei Darussalam
