About Temburong
Temburong is Brunei's wild frontier—a pristine, forest-clad province separated from the rest of the country by Malaysia's Limbang district. This is the heart of Borneo's untouched wilderness, where adventure seekers find paradise. The crown jewel is Ulu Temburong National Park, accessible only by traditional longboat, offering breathtaking canopy walks, pristine rivers, and encounters with rare wildlife like proboscis monkeys and hornbills. The district capital, Bangar, serves as a charming gateway with its waterfront and local markets. Temburong provides a rare opportunity to experience the world's oldest rainforests in their most protected state, thanks to Brunei's conservation efforts. Visitors can stay in eco-friendly lodges, hike to stunning waterfalls, and immerse themselves in the culture of the indigenous Iban and Murut communities. It's a destination for those seeking serenity, biodiversity, and authentic cultural encounters far from mass tourism.
Things to do in Temburong
Places to visit in Temburong
Canopy Viewing Tower
Canopy Viewing Tower, Canopy Steps, Temburong District, Brunei
Kaunselor Niti Rosli Residence
Kaunselor Niti Rosli Residence, Jalan Pandaruan, 98708 Kampung Sayung, Sarawak, Malaysia
Metro Hotel
Metro Hotel, Jalan Limbang Plaza, 98708 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Nelson Ruki Residence
Nelson Ruki Residence, Lorong Taman Saint Edmund 1, 98708 Happy Garden, Sarawak, Malaysia
Arisha Residence
Arisha Residence, Jalan SMK Limbang Lama, 98708 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Hanging Bridge
Hanging Bridge, Canopy Steps, Temburong District, Brunei
Viewing Tower
Viewing Tower, Pekeliling Buangsiol, 98708 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Sylvia Thien Residence
Sylvia Thien Residence, Lorong Taman Happy, 98708 Happy Garden, Sarawak, Malaysia
Comfort Hotel
Comfort Hotel, Jalan Wong Tsap En, 98708 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
OYO 90376 Centre Point Hotel
OYO 90376 Centre Point Hotel, Pekeliling Buangsiol, 98708 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Batrisya Kawan Ellena Residence
Batrisya Kawan Ellena Residence, Jalan Pandaruan, Kuarters Kastam CIQ Pandaruan, Sarawak, Malaysia
Liaw Lee Hiong Residence
Liaw Lee Hiong Residence, Lorong Taman Saint Edmund 1, 98708 Happy Garden, Sarawak, Malaysia
Maria Dayang Residence
Maria Dayang Residence, Taman Riverway, 98700 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Freme Rainforest Lodge
Freme Rainforest Lodge, Jalan Batang Duri, Kampung Sibut, Temburong District PD2151, Brunei
Sufian Wali Kota Residence
Sufian Wali Kota Residence, Jalan Pandaruan, 98708 Kampung Sayung, Sarawak, Malaysia
Travel Tips for Temburong
Getting Around
Transport is limited. The main hub is Bangar. From there, travel to villages and Ulu Temburong National Park is primarily by longboat (temuai) arranged through tour operators or at the jetty. There are few taxis; hiring a car with a driver is possible but not common. No ride-sharing apps operate here. For independence, you can rent a bicycle in Bangar to explore locally. To reach Temburong from Bandar Seri Begawan, take a speedboat (approx. 45 minutes) to Bangar or drive via Malaysia (requires border crossings). Within the rainforest, walking and guided boat trips are the only options.
Best Time To Visit
February to April and July to September. These periods offer drier weather, making jungle trekking, river travel, and canopy walks more accessible and enjoyable. Avoid the monsoon season from November to January, when heavy rains can cause flooding and disrupt travel. Festivals like Hari Raya Aidilfitri (dates vary) offer cultural insights but may mean crowded transport.
Local Customs
Brunei is a conservative Islamic monarchy. Dress modestly, especially when outside forest areas—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes or mosques. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service. Respect indigenous communities by asking permission before taking photos. Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items. Alcohol is prohibited in Brunei.
Safety Information
Temburong is very safe with low crime rates. The primary risks are environmental: leeches and mosquitoes in the rainforest, slippery trails, and strong river currents. Always hire licensed guides for jungle treks and river trips. Be cautious when traveling by boat—wear life jackets. Road travel involves crossing the Malaysian border at Limbang; ensure your passport has necessary visas and entry stamps. There are no specific areas to avoid, but respect local customs and private property. Scams are rare, but agree on prices for boat hires and tours in advance. Keep valuables secure, though incidents are uncommon.
Health Information
Medical facilities are basic in Temburong. The main clinic is in Bangar, but serious cases require transfer to hospitals in Bandar Seri Begawan (reachable by boat/road via Malaysia). Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date and consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis if spending extensive time in rural/forest areas. Malaria risk is low, but dengue fever is present—use mosquito repellent. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or boiled water. Bring a comprehensive travel medical kit, including any personal medications, as specific drugs may not be available.
Languages Spoken
Malay (official)EnglishIndigenous languages (Iban, Murut)
Quick Facts
Currency
Brunei Dollar (BND)
$
$
Timezone
Asia/Brunei +08:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+673
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
Approximately 10,000
Area
1304 km²
Government
District (one of four in Brunei), administered under the Sultanate with a District Officer
ISO Code
BN-03