Brunei is located north-west corner of the island of Borneo. It has a land border with the Malaysian state of

     Sarawak and a coastline along the shore of the South China Sea, encompassing a total area of 5,765 square

     kilometres.

 

     It is divided into four districts : Brunei-muara, Tutong, Belait and Temburong. The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan,

     is in the Brunei-Muara district and this is the main centre of population and administration. Some 70% of the land

     is covered by tropical rain forest . Brunei is a Malay Islamic Monarchy with a 600 year recorded history, which

     has given rise to well-established traditions and a unique cultural identity. The state is ruled, in accordance with

     traditional Islamic values, by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu 'izzadin Waddaulah, the Sultan and

     Yang Di Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam. Since resuming full sovereign independence in l984, Brunei has

     played an important role in regional affairs as member of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

     The population is about 280,000 of which Malays comprise 70%. There are also communities of Chinese, Indians

     and others. Malay is the official national language, but English is widely spoken and used in business and

     commerce.

 

     Brunei's equatorial climate brings consistently high levels of temperature, rainfall and humidity, with only minor

     seasonal variations. The average temperature is 28 degrees celsius.

 

 

 

                                       Brunei Muara District

 

 

     Brunei-Muara, with an area of 570 sq km, is the smallest of Brunei's four districts. But it remains the most

     important, populous and bustling district because the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan - seat of the government

     ministeries and departmental headquarters - is located here. Starting from the city centre itself and moving out into

     the rural areas, the district has a wide variety of sights to see and places of interest to visit.

 

     The City Center Bandar Seri Begawan

     Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque Dominating the city centre of Bandar Seri Begawan, this is one of the most

     magnificent mosques in Southeast Asia and a symbol of the strong Islamic faith of the people of Brunei

     Darussalam. Completed in 1958, it is named after the 28th Sultan, Omar Ali Saifuddien, who is still referred to as

     the architect of modern Brunei. The mosque's design reflects the use of the world's most elegant materials,

     including marble from Italy, granite from Shanghai, stained glass and chandeliers from England and carpets from

     Belgium and Saudi Arabia. Located in a lagoon beside the mosque is a replica of a 1 6th century mahligai barge,

     which was used to stage colourful religious ceremonies such as Koran reading competitions during the 1960s and

     early 70s. Visitors to the mosque are advised to remove their shoes before entering and should be dressed

     conservatively. Visiting hours: Sunday through Wednesday from 8.00 am to 12.00 noon, 1.00 pm to 3.30 pm and

     from 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm. On Friday: 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm . The mosque is closed to non-muslims on Thursday.

 

     Kampong Ayer

     Early European visitors to Brunei Darussalam described the Kampong Ayer, or Water Village, as the Venice of

     the East. Today, visitors continue to be fascinated by these traditional and historic houses on stilts which span the

     greater part of the Brunei River.

 

                        Home for about 30,000 people, the Kampong Ayer is accessible by boat or via wooden

                        bridges from the houses in Kampong Ayer are joined by a maze of inter-connecting

                        wooden walkways, and visitors are free to roam at their leisure. His Majesty's

                        government has provided every modern facility for the residents, including schools,

                        clinics, police stations and mosques. A visit to Brunei Darussalam would be incomplete

                        without a trip to this unique and intriguing place.

 

                        The Royal Regalia Building

     Situated in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the Royal Regalia Museum was built to commemorate the Silver

     Jubilee of His Majesty's accession to the throne in 1992.

 

     This museum is home to a collection of royal regalia, including the royal chariot, gold and silver ceremonial

     armoury, the jewel-encrusted crowns used during the coronation and a replica of the throne which His Majesty

     uses on state occasions. There is also an exhibition which fully documents the history of the constitution of Brunei

     Darussalam.

 

     The Royal Regalia Building is open to the public daily from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm, and on Friday from 9.00 am to

     11.30 am and 2.30 pm to 5.00 pm. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the building.

 

     Brunei History Centre

     Established in 1982, the Brunei History Centre was founded to undertake research into the rich history of Brunei

     Darussalam. Among the areas of special interest is the genealogy and history of the Sultans of Brunei and the

     Royal Family. There is a display area open to the public from 7.45 am to 12.15 pm and 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm on

     Monday through Thursday and on Saturday. The centre is situated next to the Royal Regalia Building.

 

     Lapau and Dewan Majlis

     Another magnificent building within Bandar Seri Begawan is the Royal Ceremonial Hall, better known as the

     Lapau, where the present Sultan was crowned on the 1st of August 1968. An exquisite golden dome highlights the

     Lapau's interior. Traditional royal ceremonies are normally held here. Adjoining the Lapau is the Dewan Majlis or

     Parliament House.

 

     Tasek Recreational Park

     This is one of the oldest recreational parks within the city. As well as a natural waterfall and lake, the park features

     a beautiful garden of trees and flowers. For those who want to get away from the noisy traffic of the city, this park

     is an ideal place to spend some time. It takes about 15 minutes to walk there from the Lapau. Brunei Shell, as part

     of their community work, have also installed an 8m high wall for those interested in climbing.

 

     Tamu Kianggeh

     The tamu, or open market, is situated on the banks of the Kianggeh River in central Bandar Seri Begawan. Here

     one can find a wide variety of items including local dishes, fruits and vegetables, flowers and handicrafts. The tamu

     is open every day from morning to late evening.

 

     The Istana Nurul Iman and Taman Persiaran Damuan

     The most impressive site in Bandar Seri Begawan is His Majesty's royal palace, known as the Istana Nurul Iman.

     It is the largest residential palace in the world, and its golden domes, vaulting roof and riverside setting make it a

     spectacular subject for photographs. The palace is open to the public only during Hari Raya, when residents and

     visitors alike have the opportunity to greet His Majesty and the royal households.

 

     The best view of the istana is from the Persiaran Damuan, which is a park along the river bank offJalan Tutong. It

     has walkways, a well equipped playground and feature six outdoor sculptures by ASEAN artists, on the theme of

     Unit,vin Diversity. The Persiaran Damuan is popular for jogging and has several foodstalls in the evenings.

 

     Yayasan Sultan Haji

     Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex

     Adjacent to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, this is the latest imposing addition to the skyline and waterfront of

     Bandar Seri Begawan. It is a commercial and shopping complex, designed to generate revenue for a foundation

     dedicated to the welfare of the people. It is a personal initiative of His Majesty, and is a testament to his abiding

     concern for the well-being of the people of Brunei. The complex is designed withan amalgamation of both

     traditional Malay and modern architecture . Its main walkway features excellent views of the OmarAli Saifuddien

     Mosque at one end and Kampong Ayer at the other.

 

     The shopping complex, opened in July 1996, and contains the biggest selection of shopping facilities in Brunei.

     Various branded goods are sold here. With the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex,

     Bandar Seri Begawan aims to create a complete new image in the city centre, thus making it a major tourist

     attraction.

 

     Jalan Tutong Area

     Taman Mini Perayaan Kampong Parit

     About 26 km from Bandar Seri Begawan, the Taman Mini Perayaan Kampong Parit features authentic mini

     replicas of dwellings that represent rural Brunei and the Kampong Ayer. The models are built in the traditional

     manner and are surrounded by forest greenery, making it easy to imagine what life was like in days gone by.

 

     Kampong Parit also includes a childrens' playground and open-air local-style food stalls. Community events and

     festivals are often held here, such as the Sultan's birthday celebration.

 

     Wasai Kandal

     Wasai Kandal offers some delightful jungle walks only a few minutes from the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan. The

     wide trail has bridges and hand-rails, making this walk safe as well as scenic.

 

     Located about 10 kms from the city in Mukim Kilanas, Wasai Kandal is best known for its picturesque pools and

     waterfalls. The first is called Air Terjun Menyusop (Menyusop Waterfall), and is only some 360 metres from the

     road. From there, the path leads on to Tasek Laboi (Laboi Lake), a still, swampy pond surrounded by tall trees.

 

     Further on, the trail passes Wasai Lumut Lumpan, a small pool with a cascade below it, and Wasai Dang Umai,

     where there is another pool and a small waterfall . The path climbs a low ridge line into the next small valley,

     passing Ayer Terjun Tinggi (the High Waterfall), which nestles in a grotto surrounded by trees a hundred feet or

     more high.

 

     From there, the path winds its way along a stream bed and past stands of bamboo to Ayer Terjun Rendah (the

     Low Waterfall), which has a large plunge-pool.

 

     Kota Batu Area

     The Arts and Handicraft Centre

     This is situated alongside the Brunei River onJalan Residency, and it is where the traditional arts and crafts of

     Brunei Darussalam have been revived.

 

     Here traditional, intricately designed sarongs are woven using gold or silver threads called 'jong sarat'. They have

     been worn on ceremonial occasions for centuries, and are valued as heirlooms and collector's pieces.

 

     Hand-tooled silver jewellery and artifacts, such as ornamental cannon and the snake-like dagger known as the

     'keris', can be purchased from the centre's handicrafts shop.

     The centre is open daily from 7.45 am to 12.15 pm and from 1.30pm to 4.30 pm, except on Friday and Sunday

     when it opens between 8.30 am and 2.00 pm.

 

     Bumbungan Duabelas

     Further up the road along Jalan Residency is a grand old building called Bumbungan Duabelas, the House of

     Twelve Roofs, which was built in 1906. It used to be the official home of the British Resident and has a panoramic

     view overlooking the Kampong Ayer. Now owned by the government, the building is used for entertaining foreign

     dignitaries and staging cultural performances.

 

     Ancient Tomb of Suhan Bolkiah

     During the 15th century, under the reign of the fifth Sultan, Bolkiah, Brunei was the dominant power in the region.

     His mausoleum and its cemetary garden lies on the banks of the Brunei River off Jalan Kota Batu, near the Brunei

     Museum.

 

     The Brunei Museum

     The architecturally distinctive building which houses the Brunei Museum is about 6.5 km from Bandar Seri

     Begawan along the Brunei River.

 

     Here the visitor can enjoy a variety of displays including a unique and priceless collection of Islamic art. A large

     private collection of elaborately gilded Holy Korans are testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of ancient

     calligraphers, and there are also treasures of ceramics, glassware and carpets.

 

     Other galleries here contain bronze ware, Borneo ethnographic displays, a natural history collection and one

     devoted to the oil industry. The museum is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily except Monday, and from 9.30

     am to 11.30 am and 2.30 pm to 5 pm on Friday.

 

     The Malay Technology Museum

     Situated near the Brunei Museum, the Malay Technology Museum offers the visitor an intriguing insight into the

     lifestyle of the people of Brunei in bygone days. Focusing on the traditional techniques of house-building and other

     aspects of Malay life, it shows the ingenuity of earlier generations and their skillful use of locally-available

     materials. Authentic, three-dimensional displays of boatmaking, fishing, metalworking and goldsmithing transport

     the visitor back to traditional times.

 

     The museum is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily except Tuesday, and between 9.00 am to 11.30 am and

     2.30 pm to 5.00 pm on Friday.

 

     Gadong Area

     The Gadong area is best known as Bandar Seri Begawan's commercial and shopping district. Initially developed

     during the 1970s, it is still growing rapidly and now features many fine restaurants, department stores and shops. It

     is a thriving and bustling area, busy and thronged with shoppers into the late evening.

 

     Jame 'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

     The Largest and most magnificent mosque in Brunei, known locally as the Kiarong Mosque,

     itwas built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of His Majesty's reign. Its gold-topped

     domes tower over artfully landscaped gardens and fountains. A visit to this memorable

     place of worship is a must for any visitor by day or night. It is situated in Kampong Kiarong,

     a few kilometres from the capital.

 

     Horticulture Centre, Kampong Rimba Gadong

     For nature lovers, a visit to the Horticulture Centre at Kampong Rimba Gadong should be

     interesting. Here, a wide variety of local household plants and flowers are sold at reasonable

     prices. The centre is open during normal working hours and is situated about 3 km from Bandar Seri Begawan.

 

     Berakas Area

     Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium

     This is the national stadium of Brunei Darussalam, and is situated about 5 km from the city centre. The stadium

     boasts many modern facilities, including the Sports Medicine and Research Centre, which has the latest medical

     and research equipment related to sports medicine. It is home to Brunei's national teams and is open to the public

     from 8.00 am to 12 noon and 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm.

 

     Next to the main stadium are three other new complexes: the International Tennis Centre, the International

     Swimming Complex and the Practice Track and Field Complex. More sports complexes, including an athletes'

     village - a squash centre, hockey centre, an indoor stadium which can seat 6,000 and a multi purpose hall which

     can seat 2,000, are being built under the 6th National Development Plan of Brunei Darussalam. The stadium is a

     popular spot for jogging; enjoyed by the young and the old.

 

     International Convention Centre

     This Convention Centre is of International standard, and started its operation in July 1989. It is equipped with

     modern and sophisticated facilities including 2 convention halls which can accommodate 800-1000 people (in

     theatre style), numbers of small meeting rooms, banquet hall, Minister's lounge, dining hall, kitchen, IDD

     telephone, etc. The centre can be used for any kind of function except trade exhibitions.

 

     Berakas Forestry Recreational Park

     This park is located on the Muara-Tutong Highway, only about 10 km from Bandar Seri Begawan. The total area

     of forest reserve within the park is 199 hectares. The area consists of mainly kerangas forest, with a number of

     interesting types of tree, such as the rurunang (casuarina) and selunsor (tristania species). There are picnic and

     barbecue facilities, as well as an observation tower.

 

     Meragang Beach

     Further along the highway towards Muara, at the junction with Jalan Meragang, is Meragang Beach - sometimes

     called 'Crocodile Beach'. Despite the name, you will not find one! The beach is quite unspoilt; a peaceful spot to

     enjoy the sea breeze and popular with the expatriate community in the country. Meragang Beach is on the coastal

     road, 7 km Muara and is about 15 minutes drive from the city by way of Jalan Berakas.

 

     Jerudong Area

     Jerudong Park Playground

     A large, state-of-the-art theme park, Jerudong Park Playground is the only one of its kind in the world because it

     is entirely free of charge to all visitors. It opened in 1994 to coincide with His Majesty's 48th birthday and now

     welcomes about 2,000 visitors per day, who come to be thrilled by adventurous rides that cater to all ages. It has

     become one of Brunei's top tourist attractions.

 

     The grounds, which have extensive childrens' play facilities, are open from 2.00 pm until 2.00 am daily. The games

     and rides open as follows : Mondays-Wednesdays 5.00pm-12.00am Thurdays & Saturdays 5.00 pm - 2.00 am

     Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays 2.00 pm -12.00 am During Ramadhan 8.00 pm - 2.00 am.

 

     Muara Area

     Muara Beach

     The coast of Brunei Darussalam is caressed by the glistening waters of the South China Sea, and a trip to the

     beach will be a memorable part of any visit to the country.

 

     Less than 27 km from Bandar Seri Begawan, Muara Beach is very popular with adults and children alike; its long

     stretch of perfect golden sand is ideal for strolling or sunbathing.

 

     The facilities in the area include a well developed picnic ground, changing rooms, toilets, a childrens' playground

     and - at weekends - food and drink stalls. This is an ideal place for a family outing.

 

     Bukit Tempayan Pisang

     After the rigours of the beach, why not spend a while climbing the jungle path to the summit of Bukit Tempayan

     Pisang? Near the main road to Serasa Beach, the hill offers a commanding view of the coast and Muara town.

 

     The remains of the Brooketon coal mine are also accessible, in dense secondary forest near Bukit Tanjong Batu,

     on the outskirts of Muara town. The mine operated between 1888 and 1924.

 

     Serasa Beach

     This is about 10 minutes drive from Muara. It is popular with watersports enthusiasts at the weekends and has a

     purpose-built watersports complex, from which you can rent jet skis or kayaks. Jet-skiing and windsurfing are the

     favourite activities along this bustling, lively beach.

 

     The soon-to-be-completed new Government Watersports Complex has facilities for international-level

     competition events such as sailing, windsurfing and water skiing, a swell as facilities for casual sportsmen and

     families.

 

     Serasa Watersports Complex

     A newly built water sports Complex situated at Serasa Beach in Muara District. It has facilities for formed

     recreation and sports activities e.g. regatta, sailing, powered boat racing, water sports training and also informal

     recreation and sports activities which require simple semi-permanent structures e.g. picnicking, water skiing and

     fishing. The water sports Complex will also be the venue for specific sports activities and in particular international

     level competition such as sailing, wind surfing, regatta and water skiing.

 

     Pulau Selirong

     It takes about one and a half hour by boat to reach Pulau Selirong, otherwise known as the Mosquito Island. This

     little mangrove island is situated off Brunei Bay. It covers 2,566 hectares and is a source of much of the timber

     used for piling in the construction of homes, buildings and bridges. Facilities include a 2kms wooden walkway,

     observation tower, toilets and resting huts.

 

     How to get to these places?

     Places of interest within the city areas are accessible by taxis and buses. However, to get to locations outside the

     city, cars are available for hire . City tours can be arranged by the hotels, offering air-conditioned coached for

     comfort.

 

 

 

                                          Tutong District

 

 

     Tutong District covers an area of 1166 sq km, making it the third largest of the districts. The Main town isTutong.

     Less than 30,000 people this district, and this includes various indigenous groups such as the Tutong, Kedayan,

     Dusun and lban tribes.

 

     Sungai Basong Recreation Park

                    This park lies just short of Tutong town centre along the Muara-Tutong Highway. It is one of

                    the most popular spots in the district for picnickers. The park includes a mini-lake, platforms,

                    shelter huts and open activity areas.

 

                    From the town centre, Sungai Basong Recreation Park is just a 5-minute drive.

 

                    Tamu Tutong Kampong Serambagun

     This big tamu, or open market, offers a great variety of produce, especially local foods, fruits, vegetables and

     handicrafts. Most of the vendors of these items are people from the inland forest areas, who come here to sell

     their produce and also to buy for their own needs. Open every day, the tamu is situated 1 km from the town

     centre.

 

     Seri Kenangan Beach

     Pantai Seri Kenangan - literally the unforgetable beach - is a popular recreation area at Kuala Tutong. Here, the

     beauty of the beach is enhanced by the narrow spit of land that has the South China Sea on one side and the

     Tutong River on the other.

 

     Further along the road one passes through Kampong Kuala Tutong, amidst a forest of coconut palms, to reach

     the old jetty. This was the site of a ferry across the Tutong River before the present bridge was built in 1959. The

     beach is a 5-minute drive from Tutong town, and a lovely spot for picnics, fishing and swimming.

 

     Tasek Merimbun

     Those who enjoy nature will delight in a day-trip to Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest lake. The lake naturally

     forms an unusual S-shape.

 

     Tasek Merimbun

     There is a small island in the centre, which is accessible by way of a wooden walkway. The island has pavilion

     facilities made from tree trunks for picnicking, and is a restful and quiet spot. For those interested in botany or

     birdwatching, there is also a trail through the jungle.

 

     Tasek Merimbun is about 1 hr 15 minutes' drive from Bandar Seri Begawan.

 

     How to get to Tutong District?

     The best option is to hire a car for the day, because the main sights are quite far apart. Tutong may be

     approached either on the coastal Muara-Tutong High way, or by following the old Jalan Tutong Road. The latter

     is more scenic and takes an inland route.

 

 

 

                                          Belait District

 

 

     Belait is one of the most important districts in the state, because it is the centre of the oil and gas industries - the

     country's main resources. Oil was first discovered in Seria in 1929, and commercial production began in 1932.

 

     Sungai Liang Forest Recreational Park

     Sungai Liang is about 70 km from Bandar Seri Begawan, and the drive takes about an hour along the coastal

     highway. The park is 450 metres from the main Sungai Liang junction along the road to Labi.

 

     This is one of several parks which have been developed and maintained for public recreation. The park is one of

     very few lowland forest areas in Southeast Asia and has facilities for general recreational activities, such as

     picnicking, jogging and hiking. It also caters for natural history devotees, with self-guided or organised group tours

     of the forest. The main pond, with its shelter platforms and open areas in the central complex, should satisfy

     visitors looking simply for fresh air and beautiful outdoor surroundings.

 

     The more energetic may care to explore the network of well-marked nature trails that wind their way around the

     park, including a high-level canopy walkway in the tree-tops. This wonderful facility will give you a totally different

     perspective on the rainforest.

 

     Tamu Sungai Mau Opening only on Sunday mornings between 6.30 a.m. and 11.00 a.m., this tamu provides a

     market place for locals, although some customers come from as far afield as Bandar Seri Begawan. Shoppers can

     find fresh goods such as fish. deer meat and wildvegetables from the remote jungles of Labi. It is best to arrive

     early in the morning, when the tamu is crowded with people and the goods are at their freshest. The tamu is 15

     minutes' drive from the Sungai Liang/Labi road junction.

 

     Sungai Mau Recreation Park

     This is situated on the Sungai Liang Labi road. The Belait River runs along one side of the park, which has a lush

     canopy of green tropical forest making it a peaceful spot for picnicking or simply strolling.

 

     Luagan Lalak Forestry Recreation Park

     Lying about 25 km from Sungai Liang along the Labi road, this park covers an area of

     roughly 270 hectares within the Labi Hills Forest Reserve.

 

     A rare and interesting place, it features an alluvial freshwater swamp or empran.

     During rainy periods it fills up like a lake, and in drier spells the waters recede and the

     valley becomes covered with sedges - mainly of the species Lepironia.

 

     There are shelters, footpaths and a 200metre wooden walkway which spans most of the lake.

 

     Wasai Wong Kadir

     Wasai Wong Kadir is a 45-minute walk from the Labi road. It is ideal for those who enjoy, or would like to try,

     jungle trekking up and down steep ridges. The Wasai, or waterfall, is a popular picnic spot.

 

     The walk crosses several steep ridges en route to the fall, but once there you can enjoy the unspoilt beauty of the

     jungle and the cool, pure water of the river. Because this is a long walk, it is advisable to take with you both

     drinking water and sun protection gear.

 

     Labi longhouses Further down the Labi Road, past Kampong Labi itself, there are several examples of a form

     of dwelling unique to Borneo - the longhouse. A village under one roof, longhouses consist of a row of family

     houses - r doors - with a communal area running the length of the building. This is the social centre of the village.

 

     Rampayoh longhouse has 16 doors and is the nearest to Labi. Othersinclude Mendaram Besar, Mendaram Kecil

     and, at the end of the road, Teraja. They are populated by Iban folk - once feared as headhunters but now more

     given to pastoral activities. Visitors are always warmly welcomed. Etiquette requires that you take some small

     gifts, ask permission before entering and remove footwear before doing so.

 

     Several trails head off into the jungle along this stretch of the road. They are clearly sign posted and marked, and

     lead the walker to scenic waterfalls and hills in virgin primary forest. They are relatively undemanding and guides

     are not necessary, but for your own safety you are advised to seek local advice before setting off.

 

     Anduki Jubilee Recreational Park

     The Anduki Jubilee Recreation Park is located about 80 km from Bandar Seri Begawan. It was opened by His

     Majesty, the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam, in 1992, a contribution from Brunei Shell

     Petroleum to the commemoration of the Silver Jubilee. The park has general recreation facilities and an attractive

     lagoon of blue water. A very popular spot.

 

     Lumut Beach

     For those who prefer a day of sun and sand whilst in Belait, there is Lumut Beach. It lies about 100 km from

     Bandar Seri Begawan and about 10 km from Seria. Like other beaches in the state, it offers facilities for

     picnicking, jogging and family outings. There are huts and shelters especially designed for visitors.

 

     Seria Town

     Seria is an oil town, and "nodding donkey" oil wells are a common sight in the area. Nevertheless, Seria is an oasis

     of quiet after the bustle of Bandar Seri Begawan.

 

     Tamu Seria

     Tamu Seria is located about 15 minutes from town between Jalan Bolkiah and Jalan Nakhoda Manis Seria, and it

     opens every Saturday from 6.00 am to 11.00 am. Among the items sold are fresh vegetables, local and imported

     fruits, household goods, local delicacies, clothes, freshwater fish, poultry, plants and birds.

 

     The Billionth Barrel Monument

     This monument was commissioned by Brunei Shell Petroleum, and was designed by a local architect. It

     commemorates the production of the billionth barrel of oil by the Seria oilfield, and stands near the seawall close

     to site of S-1, the first well dug some 60 years ago.

 

     The approach to the monument is through an arched entrance and between two straight rows of trees. The arches

     serve to remind visitors that Brunei is an Islamic environment, and the floor is made up of tiles laid in an Islamic

     pattern.

 

     There are several "nodding donkey" wells still operating in the area, pumping oil from hundreds of metres below.

     The cool sea breeze makes this a delightful area in which to relax. The monument is just a 5-minute drive from

     town centre.

 

     KuaLa Belait Town

     This is the centre of local government administration and is the most important town in the Belait District. Only

     about 17 km from Seria, KB can be reached either by the Seria by-pass or along the old coast road from Seria.

     To enjoy good views, visitors are recommended to use the old road, along which one can see the Istana

     Mangeleda - the Sultan's residence during his visits to the town. The road runs parallel to a long stretch of beach

     up to the Belait River, where there is a ferry to Kampong Sungai Teraban.

 

     One can travel to the Malaysian state of Sarawak by road from Kampong Sungai Teraban to the immigration post

     at Sungai Tujoh.

 

     Tamu Kuala Belait

     Open every Sunday from 6.00 am to 11.00 am, this tamu is located in Jalan Padang Kuala Belait, a 5-minute

     walk from the town centre. The goods sold are similar to those available at Tamu Seria. There are also a number

     of hawker food stalls close by, next to the Complex Harapan.

 

     Silver Jubilee Park

     This park is situated in Jalan Maulana, facing the South China Sea and about one km from Kuala Belait town. It

     has an area of 2,679 hectares.The park was built to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty's accession

     to the throne, as a gift from the people of Kuala Belait to His Majesty. The pintu gerbang, or main gate,

     symbolises the concept of Malay Islamic Monarchy or MIB (Melayu Islam Beraja). The main monument

     symbolises the peacefulness of the country and the loyalty of the citizens towards His Majesty.

 

     Apart from the pintu gerbang and the monument, there are exhibition huts, shelters, public toilets and a childrens'

     playground for the convenience of visitors.

 

     How to get to Belait District?

     (Getting to Belait District via the coastal road takes more than an hour from Bandar Seri Begawan. It is advisable

     to rent a car, but the trip can also be arranged through the hotels.

 

 

 

                                        Temburong district

 

 

     On your river trip to Bangar, which is the main town in Temburong, keep a close watch along the shores at low

     tide for monkeys, monitor lizards and crocodiles basking in the sun. Most of Temburong is dense virgin forest,

     with a few patches of land used for cultivation by the Malays, Muruts and Ibans who live there.

 

     Kuala Belalong Mini Park

     The Kuala Belalong Mini Park is in Bangar near the Temburong Civic Centre Padang, about 1 km from the town

     centre. It was opened on the 22nd of July1993, when His Majesty visited the district in celebration of his 47th

     birthday. The park has a natural pond which is used for remote-controlled boat racing. For those unable to get to

     the remote Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre, this park is an alternative attraction. It has six pondoks, or huts,

     of similar design to those at Kuala Belalong. Three of them are used to exhibit pictures of His Majesty's

     Temburong visit, and the activities of the local people. The other three display some of the findings made at the

     Kuala Belalong centre. Scenic beauty is provided by the natural landscape, a waterfall, shelters and flowers.

 

     Batang Duri Park

     This is about 16 km from Bangar. It is bordered by towering the crystal clear waters of the Temburong River. The

     park has open areas for picnics alongside the river, as well as wooden walkways for strolling and playgrounds for

     children. Swimming is allowed, but the current can be very strong.

 

     Rainforest Field Studies Centre Kuala Belalong

     The FSC is located near Kuala Belalong, within the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve. It is a joint venture project

     between Brunei Shell Petroleum and University Brunei Darussalam (UBD). Brunei Shell donated the funds to

     build seven timber houses,including accommodation, a laboratory and a dining room.

 

     The centre is a focal point for teaching, training and research into the lowland tropical forests of Brunei. It can also

     provide facilities for fieldwork at both university and secondary school level, which are available to schools, higher

     education institutes, government departments and bona-fide overseas scientists. The centre can accommodate up

     to 24 people.

 

     The trip there is not easy, and can take up to two and a half hours of pushing and pulling a longboat over a series

     of 23 rapids. But the site is a natural wonder of international importance. For example, one entomologist doing

     research there found over 400 species of beetle in a single tree. Applications for overnight visits must be made

     through the UBD.

 

     Peradayan Forest Recreation Park

                              This park is situated within the Peradayan Forest Reserve, and covers an area of

                              1,070 hectares. It is about 15 km from Bangar on the road to Labu. A visit to the

                              park can include a 1.6 km forest trail that winds up and down a mountainside to

                              the peak. The full trek requires about two hours.

 

                              The Peradayan Forest Reserve includes the twin hills of Bukit Peradayan, which

     rises to 410 metres (1225 ft) and Bukit Patoi, at 310 metres (950 ft) above sea level.

 

     The area has a unique geological character, with some unusual caves and rock formations. One may also

     encounter wildlife, such as kijang (deer). The rocky summit of Bukit Patoi has an open patch of flat stone which

     acts as a viewpoint and helipad. There is a pleasant breeze at the summit, and panoramic views of green jungle,

     blue sea and the villages and fields of neighbouring Sarawak.

 

     Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam (OBBD)

     Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam is situated in the virgin tropical rain-forest on the banks of the Temburong

     River. A joint venture of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport with Brunei Shell Petroleum, OBBD has a

     logistic centre close to Batang Duri and an operations centre further upstream, in the heart of the forest. It aims to

     give groups of people a carefully designed and activity-based jungle experience, which fosters confidence,

     practical problem-solving, team-work, determination and a sense of adventure.

 

     OBBD tailor their courses according to the nature, age and requirements of the client group, and the amount of

     time The facility is not just for schools and youth groups; it can also offer activities as part of an organisation's

     management development programme or for people who simply want a challenge. OBBD is unique among

     Outward bound - being the only one situated in dense primary rainforest. The Project Director of

 

     Ulu Temburong National Park

     The National Park is located within the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve. It has an area of approximately 50,000

     hectares. Due to its location, rugged terrain and its conservation purposes, human impact in the area been limited.

     The area is rich in biodiversity. Most of the development of the facilities and amenities has been undertaken by the

     Forestry Department. Nature trails have been constructed and these include 7 km of wooden walkways which

     improves access to steep and swampy terrain, protects the ground vegetation and prevents erosion. There is also

     a forest canopy walkway, giving both scientists and tourists an opportunity to examine the upper layers of the

     forest which are so rich in life. There are also Tree houses about 20 metres high whichare connected by hanging

     bridges. These can be used for nature observation. Panoramic views are often difficult to obtain in tropical

     rainforest but a number of observation points of river and mountain scenery have been identified.

 

     At the Park Headquarters located at theconfluence of the Temburong and Belalong there will be an information

     centre, staff quarters and a surau. Accommodation for visitors is located nearby; there are about 7 guest houses

     and 3 camping sites complete with facilities within the Park. Access to the Park is by Temuai or Long Boat.

 

     How to get to Temburong District

     The only practical method for the visitor | is by boat. Fast ferries leave when full from the jetty on Jalan Residency,

     between 7.00 am and 5.00 pm daily. The return fare is $14. Charters/trip can be arranged by private

     negotiationor through the hotels. visitors should bring some identification, such as a passport. The journey takes

     45 minutes and whisks passengers along mangrove-lined waterways, meandering along narrow, winding creeks

     and then zooming through open waters.