Kuala Balai - Discovering Brunei

Travelling to Kuala Balai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kuala Balai, a pretty good destination in Brunei (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kuala Balai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kuala Balai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Brunei, here's everything to know about Kuala Balai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kuala Balai

Kuala Belait is a town in the Belait District of Brunei. It is located in the southwestern part of the country, near the border with Malaysia. The town has a population of approximately 31,000 people and is known for its oil and gas industry. Some popular attractions in the area include the Silver Jubilee Park, the Billionth Barrel Monument, and the Belait Beach. The town also serves as a gateway to several nearby attractions, including Ulu Temburong National Park and the Labi Forest Reserve.

What to visit in Kuala Balai

Kuala Belait is a scenic town in the southwestern part of Brunei, offering several tourist attractions, including: 1. Silver Jubilee Park – This park is a popular spot for families to relax and unwind on weekends. It boasts beautiful landscaping, well-manicured lawns, a jogging track, outdoor exercise equipment, and a playground for children.
2. Pekan Kuala Belait (Kuala Belait Town) – This town is a hub for various government offices and businesses, including banks, shopping malls, restaurants, and supermarkets. It is also home to the famous traditional market called ‘Tamu Kuala Belait,’ where visitors can find local handicrafts, clothing, and fresh produce.
3. Billionth Barrel Monument – This monument was built to commemorate the discovery of Brunei's billionth barrel of oil. It showcases a giant spouting fountain, a viewing platform, and a museum that displays information on the history of the oil and gas industry in Brunei.
4. Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park – This park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the South China Sea. Visitors can hike up the hill's peak through forested paths, birdwatch, or have a picnic with friends and family at the picnic tables and shelters.
5. Sungai Liang Forest Reserve – This forest reserve is located near the town of Kuala Belait and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Brunei’s biodiversity by taking guided walks through various trails to spot flora and fauna.
6. Seria Oil Field – The oil field in Seria is one of Brunei’s most important assets, showcasing the nation’s oil and gas reserves. Visitors can get a glimpse of how oil is extracted and refined, in addition to a historical display on the oil production process.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Brunei, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kuala Balai

The best time to visit Kuala Belait (Brunei) is during the dry season, which runs from February to April and from June to October. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with lower humidity and cooler temperatures. However, keep in mind that Brunei experiences occasional rainfall throughout the year, so it's a good idea to bring along an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kuala Balai

There are a few ways to get to Kuala Balai in Brunei: 1. By car/taxi: If you plan to drive, you can rent a car or take a taxi from Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. The driving time from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuala Balai is about 1 hour.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from the Bandar Seri Begawan Bus Terminal to Kuala Lurah, which is about 15 minutes away from Kuala Balai. From there, you can take a taxi or walk to Kuala Balai.
3. By boat: There are also boats that run from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuala Belait, which is about 30 minutes away from Kuala Balai. From Kuala Belait, you can take a taxi to Kuala Balai.
It's important to note that Kuala Balai is a small fishing village, so there may be limited transportation options available. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and check schedules to ensure a smooth trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kuala Balai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kuala Balai

Kuala Belait (not Kuala Balai) is a town in Brunei known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods and their descriptions: 1. Ambuyat: This is the Bruneian national dish made from the sago palm tree. The sago starch is mixed with water and then eaten with a fork called chandas. It has a texture similar to tapioca pudding and is usually served with savory side dishes.
2. Nasi Katok: This is a popular Bruneian dish consisting of rice, fried chicken, and sambal (chili dip). It is a staple dish that is available at most food vendors throughout Brunei.
3. Beef Rendang: A spicy coconut-based curry that originated from Indonesia but is commonly found throughout Southeast Asia, including Brunei. The beef is cooked slowly until it is tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Ayam Penyet: This is a traditional Indonesian dish that has become popular in Brunei. It consists of fried chicken that is flattened and then served with sambal, cucumber, and rice.
5. Soto: A popular dish in Brunei and throughout Southeast Asia, Soto is a soup made from chicken or beef broth, herbs, and spices. It is typically served with slices of meat, hard-boiled eggs, bean sprouts, and rice cakes.
6. Biryani: This is a spiced rice dish that is popular in many parts of the world. In Brunei, it is often made with chicken or mutton, and spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
7. Kolo Mee: A popular noodle dish that originated from Sarawak, Malaysia but is also found in Brunei. It consists of thin egg noodles tossed in a sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic, then served with meat, vegetables, and chili sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Brunei here.

Is Kuala Balai an expensive destination for tourists?

Kuala Belait is a town in Brunei, not to be confused with Kuala Lumpur which is the capital city of Malaysia. However, to answer your question, Brunei can be considered an expensive destination for tourists, especially when it comes to accommodation, food, and activities. However, the high cost is offset by the fact that the country is very safe, clean and has a unique cultural experience. If you plan to visit Kuala Belait, it's best to budget accordingly and do plenty of research beforehand to find the best deals on accommodation and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Kuala Balai

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Kuala Belait in Brunei would be the central commercial district and the waterfront area. Some of the popular hotels in the central business district include Swiss Hotel Apartment, Sea View Hotel, and Keoja Hotel. Meanwhile, if you want to stay near the water, you can check out options like The Brunei Hotel or Liu Man Cafe & Hotel. These areas also offer easy access to various tourist attractions and shopping centers.
You can check hotel prices at Kuala Balai here:
Booking.com

Is Kuala Balai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kuala Belait is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, there may be instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft, but violent crime is rare. Visitors are advised to take general safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and belongings, avoiding walking alone at night in quiet areas, and not openly displaying expensive items. It's also a good idea to research the customs and culture of the area to avoid unintentionally offending locals or breaking any laws.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Brunei here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kuala Balai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kuala Balai the most?

Kuala Belait is a great destination for all kinds of travelers, but it is particularly popular with families and couples who enjoy exploring the outdoors and immersing themselves in the local culture. The town has plenty of parks and natural areas to explore, as well as a range of cultural attractions such as museums and historic sites.
For families, Kuala Belait offers a range of fun activities, including water sports, hiking, and exploring the local parks and gardens. Couples will enjoy the town's romantic atmosphere, with its scenic views and quiet streets. And for young people looking for fun, there are plenty of nightlife options to choose from, including bars and clubs.
Overall, Kuala Belait is a great destination for anyone looking to relax, explore the outdoors, and learn about the local culture.

How to get around Kuala Balai

The primary mode of transport in Kuala Balai (Brunei) is taxis, which are readily available throughout the city. Additionally, you can also use public buses or hire cars and motorbikes for your transportation needs. However, it is important to note that traffic in the city can be quite congested during peak hours, so it is advisable to plan your journeys accordingly.

What to see around Kuala Balai

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kuala Balai, Brunei: 1. Kampong Ayer: This is a traditional water village located in the heart of Brunei's capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. You can take a water taxi from Kuala Balai to reach Kampong Ayer.
2. Ulu Temburong National Park: This park features lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and some stunning views. It is approximately a 2-hour drive from Kuala Balai to the park.
3. Labi Hills Forest Reserve: This forest reserve is a great place for nature lovers and hikers with several trails to choose from. It is about an hour's drive from Kuala Balai.
4. Jerudong Park Playground: This is a popular family attraction in Brunei and offers amusement park rides and water activities. It is just a 20-minute drive from Kuala Balai.
5. Bukit Patoi Forest Recreation Park: This park offers beautiful nature hikes and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Kuala Balai.
For every travel information about Brunei you can click here.

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