Kampong Ayer: 10 Exciting Things to Do in Brunei's Water Village
Kampong Ayer, also known as the “Venice of the East”, is a unique water village located in the Brunei River, just outside the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. The village is home to over 30,000 residents who live in traditional stilt houses, making it one of the world’s largest and oldest water villages. It is a fascinating place to explore, with a rich history, culture, and plenty of things to do. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in Kampong Ayer.
1. Take a Boat Tour: One of the best ways to explore Kampong Ayer is by taking a boat tour. There are a variety of tour operators who offer trips around the village, giving you the chance to get up close to the stilt houses, visit the local markets, and learn more about the history and culture of the area.
2. Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kampong Ayer. It is a beautiful building, with a golden dome and intricate architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mosque to learn more about its history and the Islamic faith.
3. Explore the Markets: Kampong Ayer is home to a number of vibrant markets, where locals sell a variety of items, including fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs. You can also find traditional Brunei handicrafts such as baskets, mats, and jewelry.
4. Visit the Brunei Museum: The Brunei Museum is located in the heart of Kampong Ayer and is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Brunei. The museum houses a number of artifacts, including traditional clothing and weapons, as well as interactive displays and educational activities.
5. Try the Local Cuisine: Kampong Ayer is a great place to try some of the traditional Brunei cuisine. There are a number of local restaurants and food stalls serving up delicious dishes such as nasi katok (rice with spicy beef and egg), ambuyat (a sticky paste made from sago flour), and kuih (traditional desserts).
6. Take a River Cruise: A river cruise is a great way to see the sights of Kampong Ayer from the water. There are a number of tour operators who offer cruises along the Brunei River, giving you the chance to admire the stilt houses and other landmarks from the comfort of a boat.
7. Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery: The Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the water village. The gallery houses a number of interactive displays, as well as traditional artifacts and artworks.
8. Go Birdwatching: Kampong Ayer is a great place for birdwatching, with a number of species to be found in the area. Look out for kingfishers, herons, and egrets, as well as other migratory birds such as ospreys and terns.
9. Take a Sunset Cruise: A sunset cruise is a great way to end your day in Kampong Ayer. The tour operators offer a range of cruises, giving you the chance to watch the sun set over the stilt houses and the Brunei River.
10. Go Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore the waterways of Kampong Ayer. There are a number of tour operators who offer kayaking trips, giving you the chance to paddle around the village and admire the views.
Kampong Ayer is a unique and fascinating place to explore, with plenty of things to do. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the culture and history of the area, or just want to relax and enjoy the sights, there’s something for everyone in this water village.