10 Things to Do at the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in Kuala Belait, Sengkurong, Brunei
The Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in Kuala Belait, Sengkurong, Brunei is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring mosques in the world. Located in Brunei’s capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan, the mosque is the largest in the country and the largest in Southeast Asia. It is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and design, and a must-see for anyone visiting Brunei. Here are 10 things to do at the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque.
1. Explore the Mosque’s Interior: The mosque’s interior is an intricate blend of traditional Islamic design and modern architecture. The main prayer hall is adorned with intricate marble and gold-plated carvings, while the walls are adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy. The mosque also features a number of ornate chandeliers, as well as a large dome.
2. Enjoy the Views: The mosque is located on the banks of the Brunei River, and offers stunning views of the river, the city skyline, and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even see the nearby mountains of Sarawak.
3. Visit the Museum: The mosque is home to a museum, which houses a collection of Islamic artifacts and manuscripts. The museum also has a library, which contains books on Islamic history, culture, and religion.
4. Take a Guided Tour: The mosque offers guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Brunei. The tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides who will provide you with interesting facts about the mosque and its history.
5. Attend a Prayer Service: The mosque holds regular prayer services, which are open to the public. During the service, you will be able to watch the imam recite verses from the Quran and hear the call to prayer.
6. Attend a Lecture: The mosque also hosts a variety of lectures, which are open to the public. These lectures usually focus on Islamic history and culture, and can be a great way to learn more about the religion.
7. Take a Boat Ride: The mosque is located on the banks of the Brunei River, and boat rides are available to take you up and down the river. The boat ride is a great way to enjoy the scenery and take in the sights of the city.
8. Take a Photo: The mosque is one of the most photographed buildings in Brunei, and a great place to take photos. Be sure to bring your camera and snap some amazing shots of the mosque and its surroundings.
9. Enjoy the Gardens: The mosque is surrounded by lush gardens, which are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The gardens are also a great place to take a walk and explore the area.
10. Visit the Souvenir Shop: The mosque has a souvenir shop, which sells a variety of items, including traditional Bruneian handicrafts. The souvenir shop is a great place to pick up a memento of your visit to the mosque.
The Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting Brunei. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful gardens, it is sure to be a memorable experience. So if you are planning a trip to Brunei, be sure to add the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque to your list of places to visit.