Brunei Darussalam - The Abode of Peace

Brunei Darussalam is a small, vibrant, green and peaceful nation. Its peacefulness is a resonance of the name 'Darussalam' which is an Arabic literally meaning Abode of Peace. Conveniently located in the northern coast of the island of Borneo, the nation has enjoyed peaceful coexistence with is neighbors particular the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah as well as the Indonesion state of Kalimantan.

Historically, Brunei has a considerably colorful history. It began as a vassal state of the Srivijayan empire starting its life with the name of Poni. It later became the vassal state of the Majapahit empire before the embracing of Islam sometime in the 15th century. At its full glory, Brunei had control which spanned regions of modern day Sarawak, Sabah as well as some parts of the Sulu achipelago to name a few. In its decline, the Sultanate had lost a lot of its controlled lands and it is left with what lands that the Sultanate spans at present. Before its independence in 1984, Brunei spent almost a hundred years as a British administered state.

Brunei Tourist Attractions

What kind of guide would be complete without an overview of some of the country's sites of attraction right? Well to address that issue, we at Brunei Insider have compiled a shortlist of some of the major sites of interests in the Sultanate. Enjoy...


Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque was built in 1958 and since then it was renowned as being one of the most magnificent mosques in South East Asia. It stands as a symbol of the Sultanate’s faith in Islam. The mosque is open for visitors daily but visitors are advised to dress conservatively.







Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Known locally as the Kiarong Mosque, this holy piece of architecture is full of grandeur and is the largest in Brunei Darussalam. The mosque was built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his majesty’s reign. The gold topped domes tower over landscaped gardens and fountains for a graceful and magnificent view. Either day or night, a visit to this regal place is a must for anyone. Situated in Kampong Kiarong, it is just a few kilometers from the capital.






Kampong Ayer (Water Village)

Kampong Ayer is a national heritage of Brunei Darussalam. Famed for its historical accounts dated as far back as the 16th century with Ferdinand Magellans visit. Referred by some as the ‘Venice of the East’, the village stands strong as proof of the nation’s success in maintaining its heritage.






Brunei Muzeum
The museum is 6.5 from the city centre and is a most distinctive piece of architecture along the Brunei River. Most of the museum pieces inside are unique and priceless items of Islamic Arts. Detailed work of ancient calligraphers is featured through a private collection of amazingly elaborate Holy Korans, ceramic ware, glasswares and carpets. A history of the oil industry of Brunei and Borneo ethnographic displays are also shown.














Royal Regalia Centre
Built in 1992 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam’s ascension to the throne, this museum contains a he collection of royal regalia from the grand royal chariot to a replica of the throne which His Majesty uses on state occasion. The centre also features some of the gifts from other countries including ancient obtained from other nations in the past such as China







The Sultan's Palace
Of all the magnificent buildings in the city centre, His majesty’s royal palace, the Istana Nurul Iman, is the most impressive. Probably the largest residential palace in the world, its vaulting roof, golden dome and tranquil riverside setting makes it a spectacular subject for photography. The palace is open to the public only during Hari Raya, when Bruneians and visitors have the opportunity to greet His Majesty and the Royal Family.


Well we cant really post up all of the good places to go to in the country you know. If you want to know about the other attractions then you'll need to go out there and ask about. Who knows maybe you'll find an unexpected treasure out there? =)
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