🛶 Temburong District: Brunei’s Hidden Green Paradise
Even though it’s part of Brunei, Temburong District is physically separated from the rest of the country by Brunei Bay and a strip of Sarawak, Malaysia. Getting there feels like entering an entirely different world—one dominated by serene rivers, thick forests, and the sounds of untouched nature.
To reach Bangar, the capital of Temburong (not to be confused with Bandar Seri Begawan), travelers must sail along winding rivers and mangrove estuaries. Keep your eyes peeled for proboscis monkeys swinging in the trees or giant lizards sunning on the riverbanks!
Of all Brunei’s four districts, Temburong has the most pristine, virgin rainforests. If you ever get the chance to explore this green sanctuary, here are some of the best things to do:
🌲 1. Peradayan Forest Reserve & Bukit Patoi Recreational Park
📍 15km from Bangar
Nestled inside the Peradayan Forest Reserve, Bukit Patoi offers a two-hour trek through lush jungle trails. The 1,070-hectare reserve features unusual caves, rocky outcrops, and a view deck with panoramic vistas of the forest, South China Sea, and neighboring Sarawak villages.
🌿 2. Kuala Belalong Mini Park
📍 ~1km from Bangar
This charming mini park was inaugurated on the Sultan’s 47th birthday in 1993. It mimics the layout and experience of the more remote Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre. The park includes:
- A pond for remote-controlled boat racing
- Six pondok (rest huts) surrounded by greenery
🏞️ 3. Batang Duri Park
📍 16km from Bangar
This peaceful riverside park lies between crystal-clear waters and dense forest. It’s family-friendly with wooden walkways, picnic areas, and a playground. Visitors can swim in the Temburong River, but should watch out for strong currents.
🧗♂️ 4. Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam
📍 7km upriver from Batang Duri
A unique training center that offers character-building programs for youth, schools, NGOs, and government agencies. They focus on:
- Self-confidence
- Teamwork and trust
- Leadership
and decision-making
Set deep in the forest along the river, this is Brunei’s answer to outdoor experiential education.
🌳 5. Ulu Temburong National Park
📍 Accessible only by temuai (longboats)
This is Temburong’s crown jewel. Covering 50,000 hectares of untouched lowland rainforest, it’s known for:
- Canopy walkways among towering trees
- Treehouses, riverside guest lodges, and campsites
- Guided jungle treks, river tubing, and bird watching
Note: I wanted to visit, but unfortunately, we didn’t have time. It’s definitely on my list when I return to Brunei.
🌱 6. Kuala Belalong Rainforest Field Studies Centre
⏱️ 2.5-hour boat ride from Bangar
A joint project between Brunei Shell Petroleum and Universiti Brunei Darussalam, this remote research station focuses on lowland tropical forest conservation. It offers:
- Overnight accommodation
- Dining
facilities
Pre-arranged visits only – especially if you plan to stay the night.
🛶 7. Pulau Selirong (Mangrove Discovery)
📍 Island near Brunei Bay
Pulau Selirong is a mangrove sanctuary that once supplied timber for local homes. A visit includes:
- Boat ride through dense mangrove forest
- Guided
tours via elevated boardwalks
Arrange your trip through accredited Bruneian tour operators.
🚶♀️ 8. Jungle Trekking in Temburong
Temburong’s untouched wilderness is perfect for eco-tourism and trekking. With various trails, from beginner to advanced, the treks can be arranged via local travel agencies. Bring water, insect repellent, and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
🛥️ How to Get to Temburong District
🚤 By Boat:
The main route to Temburong is via river.
- Boats depart daily between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM from the Jalan Residency Jetty in Bandar Seri Begawan.
- Journey: ~45 minutes through palm-fringed estuaries and winding creeks
- Round-trip fare: B$14
📑 Tips:
- Bring a valid ID or passport
- Private charters can be arranged via local tour agencies
💡 Final Thoughts
While Temburong might seem isolated, that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s untamed, untouched, and unbelievably serene. If you crave nature, love trekking, or simply want to escape modern distractions—Temburong is the perfect Bruneian getaway.
📍 Other Brunei Guides You May Like:
➡️🏞️
4 Things to See in Tutong
District, Brunei – Nature, Culture & Peace »
➡️✨Top Attractions in
Brunei-Muara District: Complete Travel Guide from Bandar Seri Begawan
»
➡️ 🇧🇳
14 Things to See & Do
in Belait District, Brunei’s Oil-Rich Region »
🧳 Our 3-Day Brunei Adventure Series:
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 1: National Day, Tamu Kianggeh, Tamu Selera & Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 2: Royal Regalia 🏛 | Tasek Lama 🌿 | Kampong Ayer 🚤 | Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque 🕌tyhukj,m,
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 3: A Royal Finale with Empire Hotel, Istana Nurul Iman & Jame'Asr Mosque
🙋Have you explored the wild side of Brunei? 🌿
Temburong is a treasure trove of untouched beauty and rainforest serenity. If you've been or are planning to go, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and share your tips, experience, or questions! Let’s help more travelers discover this hidden gem. ✈️💚
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