Bandar Seri Begawan

Description

Located in the Sultanate of Brunei is the beautiful city of Bandar Seri Begawan; also known as BSB. Brunei or Brunei Darussalam, is known for having one of the oldest reining monarchy in the world and is split into four districts; Belait, Tutong, Temburong and Brunei-Muara. The district of Brunei-Muara is home to the capital of Brunei – Bandar Seri Begawan. This city is home to numerous sites and attractions and definitely has something for everyone. Home to the world-renowned Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, as well as to other Islam related attractions, the city definitely has a rich Islamic background and is therefore very Muslim-friendly. Muslim visitors will therefore find it incredibly easy to locate prayer facilities and Halal food in Bandar Seri Begawan 

One of the most popular attractions in the world, let alone in Brunei is the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. This mosque, built to commemorate Sultan Omar, is absolutely stunning and is located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan. This majestic mosque is known for its impressive golden dome and for its classic Islamic style. Open to visitors when not being used for prayers, the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque requires all its visitors to be appropriately clothed and respectful.

Another must-visit is the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Brunei. This spectacular mosque is located a couple of kilometres from the city center and was built in 1992. It is also locally known as the Kiarong mosque. Built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the current sultan's reign, the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque has an over the top interior that will leave visitors in awe.

Kampong Ayer or the Water Village is definitely worthy of a visit. All of the buildings here are constructed on stilts, and it is therefore truly a unique experience. This village, located above the Brunei River is home to about 30,000 people and is said to be the largest river village in the world; dating back over a 1000 years. A great place to learn more about the area and Brunei is the Kampung Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery; this center has a viewing tower and is located directly across the river.

Also worthy of a visit is the Istana Nurul Iman Palace. This palace is home to the Sultans and is the largest residential palace in the world. Visitors will however be unable to see the inside of the palace as it is not open to the public. It is only open at the end of Ramadan for a couple of days.

Nearby Airports

The closest airport to Bandar Seri Begawan is Brunei International Airport, which is located about 6 kilometres from the center of the city. The airport is easily accessible and can be reached via the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Highway in about 10 minutes.

Halal Restaurants

Muslims visiting Bandar Seri Begawan will be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding Halal food in the city. Pastamania, C.A. Mohamed, Noralizah & Iskandar Curry House, Amanah Harith Restaurant and Season Restaurant are just some of the numerous Halal restaurants in Bandar Seri Begawan. Muslim tourists must also try out the food served at some of the numerous street carts found here.

Mosques

There are numerous mosques in Bandar Seri Begawan at which Muslim tourists could offer their prayers at. As mentioned above, the city is also home to many world-renowned mosques. Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Jame' Asri Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Ash Shaliheen Mosque and Pehin Datu Imam Haji Abdul Mokti Mosque are just some of the many masjids in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Things to Do and See in Bandar Seri Begawan

• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
• Istana Nurul Iman
• Brunei Museum
• Jalan Tasek Lama
• Royal Regalia Building
• Kampong Ayer
• Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
• The Waterfront
• Bukit Subok Recreational Park