Backpacking Brunei: Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Brunei is a Muslim country and here, you could expect different Mosques around the city. These had become some of their attractions when touring around the city.

There are several mosques that tourists can go visit here. One of them is Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque which is their biggest mosque in the whole Brunei.

The Mosque was built for the 25th anniversary of the Sultan's reign. It was locally called  Kiarong mosque. It is located at Bandar Seri Begawan and it is easy to spot because it is really big and pretty from a distance.

the mosque from the hiway

We went there on a Friday, meaning, it was worship time for them. Almost all the places here closes at around noon to get to the Mosques. As we go to our inn to rest, we saw the Sultan's convoy going to Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. Unfortunately, we can't enter the place that day (late afternoon) because it was not scheduled for the public. However, we get to go around it.

Main entrance (the Sultan's entrance)

At the main entrance is a grand staircase and an escalator. I learned that this entrance is especially for the Sultan. It was recently used and so it was not covered. It was really pretty there and it looks really grand.

Main Gate to the entrance hall

The surroundings were also good. Landscaping was nice and pretty. It is a serene and beautiful place. The mosque itself is very pretty with four golden domes at the four corners. To capture its beauty first hand is really awesome.

walkway

fountains at the grounds

one of the pillars with the golden dome

golden dome

another fountain at the main gate

The next day, we visited back and we were able to tour the inside. It is a large place and to pay respect, you need to wear a large robe before entering. Also, you must take your footwear off upon stepping to the grounds. No photos should be taken also when inside.

Their prayer room is really big and the whole floor is covered with prayer rugs. It was fully air conditioned. We didn't stay long and we just walked around the place.

Good thing we have Amiru with us to guide us around, but if ever you want to tour the place, you can ask the people there and they could assign someone to go with you and tour you around. It is a good place for visitors in this country. Not only you will love the place and the majestic beauty of the structure, you will also appreciate the culture and religion of Brunei.