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Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

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Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the country’s largest mosque located in Kampong Kiarong a few kilometers from the capital city Bandar Seri Begawan. Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque was donated for muslim religion in the country by Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzadin Waddaulah (29th and current Sultan of Brunei). The construction work begins on 1988 and was officially opened in 14th July 1994 by 29th Sultan of brunei with His Majesty’s 48th birthday celebration.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque built at an area of 20 acre can accommodate up to 5000 worshippers at a time. Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque is an architectural masterpiece in the structure of Turkish mosques. This splendid mosque has 29 golden domes and four minarets stands at a height of 58 metres. As this mosque was built by 29th Sultan of Brunei all is 29 like 29 domes, 29 chandeliers and more. This mosque is a great example of Islamic architecture in Southeast Asia.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque as surrounded by gardens and water fountains may produce a feeling of peace, cleanliness and spiritual calm. This mosque was fabulously adorned with 29 huge chandeliers having Swarovski crystals at a weight of 3.5 tonne. It is also having large car parking area. Night views of the mosque are amazing and enjoy the cool breeze along open space. Proper dress codes are followed inside the mosque and foot wears are not permitted inside. Women should have to wear black robe inside the mosque. Men’s should have to wear long trousers. Cameras are only permit to use in first floor.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque golden domes glittering at night due to colorful lights are amazing. Take a walk around the garden quietly. This great mosque is a picturesque site to take photos on both outside and inside. A must visit place in Brunei for its architectural style and decoration materials used in the mosque, visitors can admired of it.

Address: Simpang 127, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Opening Hours:

FridayClosed
Saturday8am–12pm, 2–3pm
Sunday10:30am–12pm, 2–3pm
Monday8am–12pm, 2–3pm
Tuesday8am–12pm, 2–3pm
Wednesday8am–12pm, 2–3pm
ThursdayClosed

Brunei’s Royal Palace – Istana Nurul Iman

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Istana Nurul Iman palace stands on the banks of Brunei River few kilometers south of Brunei’s capital Bandar Seri Begawan. Istana Nurul Iman palace took place in the Guinness World Record with the title of “World’s largest Residential Palace”. At a floor space of 2,152,782 square feet, Istana Nurul Iman palace serves as an official residence of Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. This palace also contains important government bodies and Prime Minister Office of Brunei.

The name Istana Nurul Iman represents the meaning of ‘Palace of the Light of Faith’. The structure of this palace was designed by Filipino architect Leonardo V. Locsin, who tried to combine Brunei’s Islamic and Malay traditional architecture in this design. Istana Nurul Iman palace interior work was carried out by Khuan Chew, who also worked in Dubai’s, Burj Al Arab. The construction work of Istana Nurul Iman Palace was completed in 1984 at a cost of around 1.4 billion US dollars.

Curved roofs of the buildings and the huge golden dome blend both traditional Malay and contemporary Islamic styles. Istana Nurul Iman palace was floored with imported marbles. Gold and 38 varieties of marbles are used as major decoration material for palace. This palace is also home to Sultan’s expensive cars in separate 110 garages. The world’s largest residential palace contain 1788 rooms, a mosque to accommodate 1500 people, banquet hall can provide space for over 5000 guests, 257 bathroom, 5 swimming pools, 44 staircases and 18 elevators.  Istana Nurul Iman palace was lit up with 564 chandeliers and 51,000 light bulbs. The publics are not allowed inside the Palace. But you can take best pictures outside the Palace.

Visitors are allowed inside the palace only during the Islamic celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, at that time this palace receives more than one lakh visitors. Only Muslims are allowed into the palace during 10 days of the Ramadhan period.

Website: http://www.istananuruliman.org/

Address:  Jalan Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan – BB3910 Brunei Darussalam

Phone: (673) 238 28 22 / (673) 238 28 32

Opening Hours:

Open 24 hours

A Dive into Nautical History of Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum

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Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum was established by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah on 23rd march, 2015 in order to preserve the Brunei’s maritime history through artifacts. Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum is located at Kota Batu, Brunei. Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum comprises of three galleries of which two are permanent and one is temporary. As a cost of five million in Brunei dollars the construction work of the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum was began on 2006 and ends on 2008.

Mission of this museum is “to protect the Brunei’s maritime history through antiquities that represents the act of Brunei as a centre of Trade and settlement”

The first gallery is called as “Brunei Shipwreck” which display the collection of 13,500 artifacts recovered from Brunei shipwreck in 1997. Furthermore artifacts in this gallery display the role of country’s maritime trading with foreign countries during late 15th century and early 16th century.

The second gallery is called by “Kota Batu as a Trading centre”. Artifacts in this gallery represent Kota Batu as a main centre of human activities and as capital of Brunei during 14th and 17th centuries. It also displays the expansion of trade route of Brunei with foreign countries through Terindak Island.

As the third gallery as temporary gallery displays the ‘Maritime Silk Route’ of Quanzhou Maritime Museum’s in 2015. It represents the close trade link between Brunei and China existed as early as 2,000 years ago.

On time to visit the Museum, hand bags and phones are not allowed. Lockers are provided separately to keep your items safe. Outerdoor space of the museum gives the stunning views of the sea.

Website: http://www.museums.gov.bn/Bangunan%20dan%20Galeri/Muzium%20Maritim.aspx

Address:

Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum

Simpang 482, Mukim Kota Batu

Bandar Seri Begawan

Phone: +673 224 0083

Opening Hours:

Saturday to Thursday – 9 am to 5 pm (Normal days)

Saturday to Thursday – 9 am to 3 pm (Ramadhan Month)

Exploring the Ancient Fort of Bahrain

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Qal’at Al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort) is famous Archaeological site in Bahrain. In 2005, this site was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Qal’at Al-Bahrain contain many areas such as Saar necropolis, necropolis of Al-Hajjar, Kassite Palace (Early Dilum construction), necropolis of Madimat Hermand, Necropolis of Al-Maqsha, necropolis of Madimat Isa, Palace of Uperi (Central Excavation area), Shakhura necropolis, and the Northern city wall.

Archeological unearthings in this site recover artificial mound having seven layers which goes back to 2300 BC. This fort was created by various settlers in this area from 2300 BC to 18th century. Greeks, Portuguese, Kassites and Persians are some the settlers in this region in ancient times. Excavations made on 25% area of this site revealed residential, public, commercial, religious and military structures. The walls of the central building contain Barbar Pottery which dates back to same age as Barbar Temple. Relics of copper and ivory provide knowledge about ancient trade link.

Qal’at Al-Bahrain is the place suitable to a long walk in the cool breeze. An archway of this fort is the best place to take photo. Qal’at Al-Bahrain al also contain a museum where you can learn about the history of this fort. There is also Coffee Shop on outside. Watching sunset on the bay is very nice. There is also one public beach near Qal’at Al-Bahrain don’t miss to visit.

Website: http://www.culture.gov.bh/ar/

Address: 892 3618, Karbabad, Bahrain

Phone: +973 1756 7171

Opening Hours:

Opens Daily from 8 am to 8 pm

Bahrain’s Engineering Marvel and Business Hub

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Bahrain World Trade Centre is a Twin Tower in Manama which is very close to King Faisal Highway. This tower stands at a height of 240 m contain 50 floors. Bahrain World Trade Centre rises on the shore the Persian Gulf. These two towers are connected by three sky bridges. The wind turbines are incorporated in this sky bridges. Bahrain World Trade Centre is the first building in the world which use wind turbine in its design. This wind Turbine was designed by Danish company Norwin A/S. Bahrain World Trade Centre was designed by Multi-National Architectural firm Atkins. Bahrain World Trade Centre built at a cost of $150 million was opened in 2008.

Each sky bridge is carrying 225 kilowatt wind turbine so totally 675 kilowatt of wind power capacity. The two towers on both sides are designed like funnel where the wind easily passes through the gap to activate the turbine. This structure making S-Shaped stream demonstrates that, the wind reaching in 45 degree to both sides of the central axis will produce a wind flow that remains steep to the turbines.

In this way the wind turbines are producing electricity. From 11% to 15% of towers electricity is obtained from this wind turbine (generating between 1,100MWh and 1,300MWh a year). Bahrain World Trade Centre received lot of Awards for its unique Wind Turbine design and operating in its own renewable energy source some are 2006 LEAF Award, 2009 NOVA Award.

Bahrain World Trade Centre was compulsory visited by tourist for its wind turbine design and inside it contain lot of Restaurants, Cafes, Malls, Boutiques and luxury car showroom.

Website: https://www.bahrainwtc.com/

Address: Bahrain World Trade Center, Manama, Bahrain

Phone: +973 1332 3332

Discover the Bahrain’s Heritage at the Bahrain National Museum

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Bahrain National Museum is located in Manama the capital city of Bahrain and is very close to National Theatre of Bahrain (Auditorium). This is the region’s first modern museum and was opened in 1988 by Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (First Emir of Bahrain from 1961 to 1999). Bahrain National Museum is the place where you can about the people, tradition and culture of Bahrain. This museum surrounds an area of 27,800 sq m. Bahrain National Museum was designed by KHR Arkitekter of Denmark.

This museum consists of five halls. Three Halls are dedicated to Bahrain’s archaeology and Dilmun civilization. Remaining two halls are dedicated to Bahrain’s Culture and Tradition. In this section you can watch traditional houses, clothes and crafts used by peoples of ancient Bahrain. Museum centre comprises of large map of Bahrain. Documents and Manuscripts Hall hold the copies of old Quran and letters from the ruling Al Khalifa family. In 1993 Natural History Hall was opened to feature the specimen of flora and fauna of Bahrain. Dilmun Burial Mounds (Necropolis areas) of Bahrain was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Bahrain National Museum also contains Educational Hall, administrative offices, laboratory and Warehouse to preserve holdings and parking’s. Gift Shop in this museum sells artifacts, handcrafts and perfumes. Coffee Shops are also available in this museum.

Artifacts in the museum clearly display the tradition, trade and business transformation of Bahrain from early days to till date. This museums outdoor is perfect to take walk in Persian Gulf Water.

Website: http://culture.gov.bh/en/authority/cultural_sites/BahrainNationalMuseum/

Address: Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Bahrain

Phone: +973 1729 8777

Opening Hours:

Working Hours are Daily from 8:00am – 8:00pm

Closed on Tuesday

Motorsport Enthusiasts Dream Destination Bahrain International Circuit

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Bahrain International Circuit is the place where popular motor sports events is held. Bahrain International Circuit was located in Sakhir, Bahrain. Bahrain International Circuit was opened in 2004. Bahrain International Circuit has FIA Grade 1 license. Bahrain International Circuit track is the most advanced race track in the world. Bahrain International Circuit opened in 2004 was a motor sports avenue located in Sakhir, Bahrain. The construction of this circuit was started by Bahrain’s crown prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. This circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke (German Architect). The 2004 Grand Prix was the first motor race to be conducted in this circuit in Middle East. Total cost expensive for the construction of the circuit is $150 million.

Bahrain International Circuit is features with six different tracks.

  • Grand Prix track (5.412 km)
  • Inner track (2.55 Km)
  • Outer track (3.664 Km)
  • Paddock circuit (3.7 Km)
  • Drag strip (1.2 Km)
  • Oval track (2 Km)

In 2014, this circuit celebrates its 10th Anniversary by conducting Grand Prix in night for first time. Some of the popular events held in this circuit are drag racing, grand Prix, v8 super cars, desert 400, Formula One, Bahrain Grand Prix, F1 race, Formula BMW World Final and much more.

Watching Race in the desert region surrounded by lights in night give you a great experience. Bahrain International Circuit is still continuously hosting worldwide championship races. If you are F1 race lover this is right place for you. This place is very neat and hygiene even though it is in Desert region. Viewing the track from the observation track is really amazing. It’s just 30 minute drive from Manama.

Website: https://www.bahraingp.com/

Address: Gate 255, Gulf of Bahrain Avenue Umm Jidar 1062 Sakhir، Bahrain

Phone: +973 1745 0000

Oldest Market in Bahrain – Bab-Al-Bahrain

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Bab Al Bahrain serves as gateway of Manama Souq in Bahrain’s capital city Manama. It is one of the oldest and vibrant markets in Bahrain. It is definitely a must place to visit in Bahrain. Bab Al Bahrain located in Customs Square was built in 1949 by Shaikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh. This building also served as Government Administrative Office for few years. Due to some restoration work in 20th century this building is extended to several kilometers.

Bab Al Bahrain situated in Government Avenue can contain some Banks and Offices. This place is considered to be first public place in this kingdom. In front of the building you can see a beautiful water fountain that welcomes you into this market. This vibrant market contain lot of shops selling handcrafts, spices, perfumes, toys, souvenirs and traditional dresses in very low cost. Here you can see some Gold shops which is selling high quality gold jewelry.

This market gives you traditional feeling and there were some shops selling ancient Artifacts where you can buy gifts for your families and friends. If you feel hungry while shopping in this market there are lot of restaurants, food stalls and coffee shops are waiting for you.

Great time to visit this market is at night where the shops are adorned with colorful lights. Bab Al Bahrain is very close to King Faisal Highway.

Website: http://culture.gov.bh/ar/visitingbahrain/cultural_tourism/10top_must_dos/Name,10129,ar.html#.XsOvTWgzZdi

Address: Bab Al Bahrain Ave, Manama 304, Bahrain

Phone: +973 1729 8777

Opening Hours:

Thursday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
Friday9am–12:30pm, 4–9pm
Saturday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
Sunday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
Monday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
Tuesday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
Wednesday9am–12:30pm, 4–8pm

Oldest Mosque in Bahrain – Al Khamis Mosque

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Al Khamis Mosque is the first and oldest mosque in Bahrain founded in 7th century and was built around 692 AD during the era of the Umayyad caliph Umar II. Formerly this mosque was built with one minaret. The second minaret was built during the era of Usfurids. Materials used for the construction of Al Khamis Mosque are stone and wood. This mosque was rebuilt with prayer hall with flat roof top which was supported by wooden columns, in 14th century.

In 15th century it was rebuilt by adding another flat roof which was supported by arches made of thick masonry pillars. The two minarets of Al Khamis Mosque help to identify the location while travelling in Shaikh Salman Road in Khamis.

 The two minarets are 25m high and are ended with circular dome. You can reach the balconies of the minaret through circular staircase and have a beautiful view of the surrounding. But the way is very narrow so the adult find it hard to reach the top. A limestone slab which was in the form of mihrab was found during restoration work in the mosque. It is believed that the limestone was originated from 12 century.

Visitors centre in this site hold the photos of old town, artifacts, coins and gems. There is a large open space in this site where you can see the residue of old structure and a shrine which was in fallen condition. This mosque is also known by Thursday mosque.

Website: http://culture.gov.bh/ar/visitingbahrain/cultural_tourism/Destinations/Name,10321,ar.php#.XsOt42gzZdh

Address: Sh Salman Hwy, Tashan, Bahrain

Phone: +973 1729 8777

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Sunday – 9 am to 5pm

Monday – Closed

Spiritual Heaven of Bahrain – Al-Fateh Mosque

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Al-Fateh Grand mosque is the biggest place for worship which is located in Al-Fateh Highway in Juffair, Bahrain. This mosque was built by late Isa ibn Salman Al Khalifa (first emir of Bahrain from 1961 to 1999) in 1987. After its completion in 1988 it was named as Ahmed Al-Fateh. With total area of 6,500 square meters this elegant mosque can hold up to 7000 devotees at a time.

Al-Fateh Grand mosque was built in Islamic architecture. Al-Fateh Grand mosque dome is the largest fiberglass dome in the world at weight of 60 tones. The marbles floors of the mosque are come from Italy, teakwood doors are from India and chandelier are from Austria and 952 handmade glass lamps are bought from France. The prayer hall was adorned with carpet which was bought from Scotland. Swarovski crystal chandelier from Austria took place in the main hall. In 2006, Al-Fateh Grand Mosque was announced as National Library of Bahrain. Here you can find more than 7000 books which are 100 years old. These incorporate duplicates of the books of the lessons of Prophet Muhammad. While visiting this mosque you can gain knowledge about the history of mosque and the Islamic religion.

Visitors are allowed only to visit the mosque. Non-Muslims are also allowed and proper dress code is followed in this mosque.

Website: http://www.alfatehmosque.com/

Address: Awal Avenue Corner Al Fatih Highway، Bahrain

Opening Hours:

Sunday to Thursday – 9am to 4pm

Friday – closed