Istana Nurul Iman: The Palace of Light and Faith

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Visit the world's largest residential palace, the opulent Istana Nurul Iman, during the annual Hari Raya festival in Bandar Seri Begawan.

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Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, is the world's largest residential palace. Completed in 1984, it boasts 1,788 rooms, opulent interiors, and reflects a blend of Islamic, Malay, and modern architectural styles. While typically not open to the public, it welcomes visitors during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festival.

A brief summary to Istana Nurul Iman

VWFC+46J, Jln Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan, Tumasek, BB3910, BN
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during Hari Raya Aidilfitri for the chance to enter the palace and meet the Sultan.
Dress respectfully when visiting the palace during Hari Raya.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the palace.
Outside of Hari Raya, admire the palace from the Brunei River or Persiaran Damuan Park.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Bandar Seri Begawan, take bus lines 42, 44, or 49 towards the palace. Alight at the Jalan Ripas (Istana Nurul Iman) bus stop, a 9-minute walk to the palace gates. Bus fare is approximately BND 1 per ride. Buses operate from 6:00 to 20:00. During Hari Raya, shuttle services may be available from designated parking areas in the city.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Bandar Seri Begawan, taxis and ride-sharing services like Dart are readily available. A ride to Istana Nurul Iman typically costs around BND 5-15, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions. Confirm the fare or ensure the meter is used before starting your journey.
Water Taxi

For a scenic route, take a water taxi from the Bandar Seri Begawan waterfront to the Brunei River near the palace. Negotiate the fare with the boat operator, typically ranging from BND 2-5 per person. From the riverbank, it's a short walk to the palace grounds.

Discover more about Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, meaning 'Palace of the Light of Faith', is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, and the seat of the Brunei government. Completed in 1984, just before Brunei's independence from British rule, the palace was envisioned to mark a new era for the country. Designed by Filipino architect Leandro V. Locsin, the palace's exterior showcases a blend of Islamic and Malay architectural traditions, featuring golden domes and vaulted roofs. The interior, designed by Khuan Chew, who also worked on the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, is equally impressive, with opulent gold and marble décor. The palace boasts 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a banquet hall that can accommodate up to 5,000 guests, and a mosque for 1,500 worshippers. Other features include 18 elevators, 44 marble staircases, five swimming pools, a helipad, and air-conditioned stables for the Sultan's horses. Istana Nurul Iman is not generally open to the public, but it opens its doors for three days each year during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. During this time, the Sultan and his family greet visitors in a tradition called 'rumah terbuka,' meaning 'open house'. The palace also serves as a venue for important state events, such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting.