Brunei-Muara
Among the four districts in the country, Brunei-Muara is the smallest but also the most populated, hosting almost three-quarter of the total population. This is where the capital and seat of government and most of the commercial activities are based. The district contains many important landmarks and points of interest such as Kampong Ayer, Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, the Royal Mausoleum, Lapau (Royal Ceremonial Hall), Dewan Majlis (Parliament House), Brunei Museum, the Royal Regalia Museum and Brunei’s largest mosque Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah.
Not far from the capital is the Istana Nurul Iman, official home to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. This grand palace opens its doors to the public during Hari Raya, with a chance to meet and greet members of the royal family. Located just beside the palace is Damuan Recreational Park, a popular spot for joggers.
Gadong and Kiulap are two of the most prominent commercial centres. These areas accommodate a large concentration of businesses such as banks, shopping malls, clinics, car workshops, car wash centres, laundry services, restaurants and bakeries.
Tutong
Tutong is 30 minutes away from the capital and is the country’s most ethnically diverse district. It is home to four Bornean ethnic groups: Tutong, Kedayan, Dusun and Iban.
Visitors often flock the district for its impressive destinations which exhibit natural beauty such as Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park, Seri Kenangan Beach, Bintudoh Greenspring Resort, Ukong Sago Factory, Wasai Batu Mapan Recreational Park and Bukit Ambok. Most of the administration and business activities take place in Pekan Tutong.
The Tutong Market, also known as Tamu Tutong among locals, is open on Thursdays with various vendors under one roof. Discover local delicacies, antiques, community-based products and more. Also a must-visit is the One Village, One Product (1K1P) Gallery at Tutong District Office. Visitors can also cruise along the Tutong River to immerse in the beauty of this quaint town. Learn about the history of early settlements at Lurah Saban and catch a glimpse of exotic wildlife along the river.
Belait
Brunei’s largest district, Belait, is the source of the Sultanate’s wealth and prosperity. Most of the country’s petroleum industry runs in this quiet oil district, situated roughly 100 kilometres away from the capital. Seria and Kuala Belait are the district’s largest towns.
Visitors to Belait District are greeted with the sight of one of its most iconic landmarks – a giant teapot monument standing right in the middle of a roundabout. Nodding donkeys can also be seen in various areas.
Notable landmarks and attractions in this district include the Seria Energy Lab, Wasai Teraja waterfall, Labi Coffee Farm, Belait Museum and the Billionth Barrel Monument in commemoration of the billionth oil barrel in Brunei. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the rich and unique biodioversity of Labi’s rainforests. The Teraja and Mendaram longhouses offer visitors a glimpse into the community’s traditional lifestyle. The longhouses are mostly occupied during weekends.
Temburong
Temburong is the second largest district, separated from the other three districts and sitting adjoined to Sarawak, Malaysia. The Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SHOAS) Bridge, opened to the public in 2020, was constructed to facilitate travel between Brunei-Muara and Temburong.
The district is densely covered with lush rainforests, making it a hotspot for ecotourism. The Ulu Temburong National Park and the Sumbiling Eco Village are some of the district’s points of interest. The former is arguably Brunei’s most popular attraction when it comes to nature, hence it is affectionately called the Green Jewel of Brunei. Tamu Bangar, the district’s main market, is known for its affordable local dishes and fresh produce. Look for local specialties such as wajid (steamed rice cooked in sugar and coconut cream) and beautifully hand-woven rattan baskets as a charming souvenir. The district is also known for its fresh udang galah (giant freshwater prawn), commonly stir fried or grilled for a hearty meal.