Things To Do
in Kampong Tunah Jambu
Kampong Tunah Jambu is a quiet riverside village set in Brunei's lush, forested landscape. Its narrow lanes wind along the water, inviting slow, intimate encounters with locals and nature. The community centers on traditional crafts, seafood, and warm hospitality that reflects Bruneian culture.
Visitors can experience rural Brunei through easy walks, local markets, and calm evenings by the river.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kampong Tunah Jambu and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Bruneian dishes such as Nasi Katok. Spend the morning exploring the nearby markets and cultural sites, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel that reflects Brunei's rich Islamic heritage. Wander through the nearby parks, taking in the lush greenery and serene views. Prepare for your evening by browsing local handicrafts and enjoying a refreshing drink at a scenic spot.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Bruneian cuisine while the sun sets over the horizon. Take a quiet stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves and the vibrant colors of the sunset. End your day by socializing with locals, learning about their way of life.
Start your day with breakfast styled after traditional Bruneian customs, perhaps enjoying Roti John or Soto. Visit the Brunei Museum for a glimpse into the nation's history and art, absorbing the tales that shaped this peaceful kingdom. Engage with local artisans and their craft, expanding your appreciation for Bruneian culture.
Take a short drive to the heart of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, for a leisurely lunch at a riverside café. Explore the Royal Regalia Museum afterward, marveling at the intricate displays showcasing Brunei's royal heritage. As you stroll, look for street vendors offering handmade crafts that provide a window into the local artistry.
End your day with a traditional dance performance at a community center, where you can witness the rich ethnic diversity of Brunei through art. Share dinner with your newfound friends, exchanging stories and laughter over a feast of aromatic dishes. Reflect on the day's experiences as you enjoy the warm evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5 L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Brunei experience
- Very peaceful and safe
- Beautiful river landscapes
- Warm, welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and amenities
- Public transport is sparse
- Remote location may require a car
- Hot and humid climate year-round
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please/Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana?" - Where is...?/Where can I find...
- "Saya tidak faham" - I don’t understand
- "Boleh saya cuba?" - May I try?
- "Jemaah yang mana?" - Which one is this?
- "Maaf, saya perlukan bantuan" - Sorry, I need help
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening/night
- "Selamat tinggal" - Goodbye
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Kampong Tunah Jambu
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over calm waters and wooden jetties, ideal for reflections.
The mosque’s minarets framed by palms, beautiful in golden hour light.
Close-up of fresh produce, colorful fabrics, and busy market life.
Long shadows and silhouettes of locals along the river at golden hour.
Food in Kampong Tunah Jambu
Kampong Tunah Jambu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Brunei's iconic simple meal of steaming white rice paired with spicy chicken and sambal; commonly found at local kedai and night markets.
Must-Try!
A gluey starch served with an assortment of dipping sauces like sambal belacan, cencalok (fermented fish), and sayur-sayuran; traditionally eaten with the fingers.
Brunei's bamboo-cooked chicken with coconut milk and herbs; available in village eateries or during festive events.
Fish simmered in a sour tamarind and chili broth with local herbs; common in coastal eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small village market by the river where locals sell fresh fish, vegetables, and fruit; early morning visits yield the best picks.
Roadside stalls offering grilled fish, fried snacks, and sweet treats; great for a quick, affordable bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering mosques; women may be required to cover hair.
Use polite Malay phrases; handshake is common in formal settings; avoid physical contact with the opposite sex without consent.
Ask before photographing people or private ceremonies.
Accept hospitality with gratitude; eat with the right hand; avoid waste.
Safety
Tipping in Kampong Tunah Jambu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Brunei; however, leaving a small tip for exceptional service in tourist areas is appreciated but not expected.
Cash (Brunei Dollar, BND) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger eateries and shops; many rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with clearer skies; great for daytime activities and outdoor photography; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
Heavy rains and higher humidity; occasional brief downpours; landscapes become lush; plan indoor alternatives and carry rain gear.
Kampong Tunah Jambu at Night
Hiking in Kampong Tunah Jambu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with wildlife opportunities and viewpoints; reachable via a longer drive from the village.
Rustic rainforest trails with rivers and waterfalls; best reached with a guide or organized tour.
Short, accessible hikes along forest edges and riverbanks, suitable for day trips from the village.
Airports
How to reach Kampong Tunah Jambu by plane.
Brunei's main international gateway, located near Bandar Seri Begawan; connected to major regional hubs and offering car rental and taxi services to rural areas.
Gateway in neighboring Malaysia (Sarawak) useful for cross-border trips; requires land crossing into Brunei and subsequent local transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group; language is Malay with Brunei dialects; Islam is the predominant religion.
Significant minority; contributes to commerce and cuisine; languages commonly include Malay and Chinese dialects.
Various Indigenous groups inhabit rural areas and contribute traditional crafts and cultural practices.
A mix of long-term residents and visitors, especially in urban centers, bringing diverse services and languages (English widely used).
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools, clubs, and community fields across Brunei.
Common in community centers and homes; casual courts are easy to find.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport enjoyed in villages and schools.
A popular activity along the river; locals enjoy leisurely fishing as a pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampong Tunah Jambu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bruneian vegetarian options revolve around vegetables, tofu, and coconut-based curries. When ordering meat-free, look for vegetable curries, tempeh, or tofu dishes; if unsure, ask for 'tanpa daging' (no meat) and 'tanpa ikan' (no fish).
Brunei's meals are often rice-based; rice and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, but sauces may contain gluten. Ask for dishes without soy sauce or thickened sauces, and request 'tanpa gluten' (no gluten) or clarify ingredients.