10 Things to Do in Kampong Ayer (Water Village), Rimba Brunei
Kampong Ayer, or the Water Village, is a unique and vibrant part of Brunei’s culture. Located in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan, the Kampong Ayer is a cluster of stilt villages that have been built over Brunei River for over 1,000 years. It is home to approximately 30,000 people, making it the largest water village in the world.
Kampong Ayer is a great place to explore and experience Brunei’s culture and history. Here are 10 things to do when you visit Kampong Ayer:
1. Take a boat ride around the village: A boat ride around the village is one of the best ways to explore Kampong Ayer. You can get a boat from the jetty at the waterfront and take a tour of the village. You will be able to see the stilted houses, the mosque, and the old wooden bridges that connect the different parts of the village.
2. Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery: This gallery is located in the heart of the village and showcases the history and culture of Kampong Ayer. It is a great way to learn about the history of the village and the people who live there.
3. Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: This is one of the most iconic mosques in Brunei and is located in Kampong Ayer. The mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and is open to visitors.
4. Visit the Kampong Ayer Market: The market is a great place to pick up some local souvenirs and to experience the local culture. Here you can find a variety of local goods and produce, as well as souvenirs and handicrafts.
5. Take a walk around the village: Take a leisurely walk around the village and explore the different parts of Kampong Ayer. You can see the traditional wooden stilt houses, the old wooden bridges, and the vibrant local life.
6. Visit the Brunei Museum: The Brunei Museum is located in Kampong Ayer and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Brunei. The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase the country’s rich culture and history.
7. Enjoy the local food: Kampong Ayer is a great place to sample some of the local cuisine. There are a variety of restaurants and food stalls located in the village that serve up some delicious local dishes.
8. Visit the Kampong Ayer Heritage Park: The heritage park is a great place to learn about the history of the village and the people who live there. The park is home to a variety of artifacts, monuments, and sculptures that tell the story of Kampong Ayer.
9. Take a sunset cruise: Take a boat ride around the village at sunset and enjoy the beautiful views of the sunset over the river.
10. Watch a traditional Brunei dance performance: There are a variety of traditional dance performances that take place in Kampong Ayer. These performances are a great way to experience the local culture and to learn about the traditional dances of Brunei.