Istana Nurul Iman: The Palace of Light and Faith
Visit the world's largest residential palace, the opulent Istana Nurul Iman, during the annual Hari Raya festival in Bandar Seri Begawan.
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
- +6738623734
- Visit website
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Surau Istana Nurul Iman
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The ASEAN Sculptures
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Plaza Athirah
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LeGallery Suites
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Adresto
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jong Batu
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Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
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Damuan Recreational Park
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Brunei River
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BIBD frame Brunei Darussalam
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Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas
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Royal Barge
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Kampong Ayer
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Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
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Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
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Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
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Istana Darussalam
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Water Village Settlement (Kampong Ayer)
2.8 km
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Pulau Piasau
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The Big Wall Brunei
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Essential places to dine
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Restoran Seri Kamayan
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My Town Eating House
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Rajah's Restaurant & Catering (ராஜாவின் உணவகம் & கேட்டரிங்)
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Restoran Wisma
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Rasa Idaman
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Sui Heng
2.1 km
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Gerai Nini Mama / Grandma’s Cafe
2.1 km
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Gerai Nini Mama
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Restaurant Membawang
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UmiFatimah Restaurant
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SDK Sungai Kebun
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A.B.S Restaurant
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The Eateries
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Baby A to Z
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Bruneian Made
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BERRYWAN STORE
2.1 km
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THE ONE
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First Emporium & Supermarket (Branch)
2.1 km
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Wardrobe Collection Brunei
2.2 km
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Sunju Enterprise Sdn Bhd
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Up& beyond
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Minah Exquisite Boutique and Tailoring
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88th Avenue Brunei
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ARUM
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Little Audrey's Café
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The Learners' Bar
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Comfort Greens Cafe
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New Star Box Cafe & Grill Kiulap
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