Things To Do
in Tutong

Tutong is a serene district in Brunei, known for its lush greenery and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Belait District and the South China Sea, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. The district is home to the Tutong River, which is vital for the local economy and lifestyle.

Visitors can experience traditional Bruneian culture through its crafts, food, and warm hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tutong District Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic Tasek Merimbun, the largest natural lake in Brunei, where you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the views.

evening
:

Visit the Tutong Night Market for dinner, sampling a variety of local street food and interacting with friendly vendors.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a hike at the Bukit Puan Nature Reserve, enjoying the lush trails and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at the nearby beach, enjoying the sun and the sound of the waves.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant, indulging in freshly caught fish and traditional Bruneian dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a local restaurant$5-$10
Cup of coffee$2-$4
🚕Taxi fare (within town)$3-$5
🏨Hotel accommodation (per night)$30-$60
🍦Ice cream$1-$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Safe and clean environment.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport is not very developed.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Malay speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Tutong

Visit one of these nice places.

Tasek Merimbun

A scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing natural beauty.

Tutong River

The river provides picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Bukit Puan

A hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tutong

Tutong offers a delightful culinary experience, combining traditional Bruneian flavors with fresh local ingredients. Whether you're dining at local markets or upscale restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Tutong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Katok

A simple yet delicious dish consisting of rice served with fried chicken and sambal.

Must-Try!

Ambuyat

A traditional dish made from the sago palm, often served with a variety of dips.

Soto

A flavorful soup filled with noodles, meat, and spices, typically served with lime.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tutong Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of local street food options, perfect for trying multiple dishes.

Pasar Tani Tutong

A farmers' market where you can find fresh produce and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tutong experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year. The temperature typically ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). The rainy season lasts from May to January, while the dry season occurs from February to April, providing the best conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, especially in religious sites.

Respect Local Customs

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Greetings

A handshake is common; however, wait for the local person to extend their hand first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tutong is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Be aware of road conditions and always follow local traffic regulations.

Tipping in Tutong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Brunei, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (February - April)

Expect warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities.

Rainy Season (May - January)

Frequent rain showers; it's advisable to have an umbrella and plan indoor activities.

Festive Season (Hari Raya Aidilfitri)

A great time to experience local culture and festivities, but be aware that some places may be closed.

Holiday Season (December)

Cooler weather with a festive atmosphere; a great time for celebration and local events.

Nightlife Guide

Tutong at Night

Tutong's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, with a few local cafes and restaurants that stay open late. The Tutong Night Market offers a vibrant atmosphere in the evenings, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and mingle with locals. There are also occasional cultural events and festivals that take place in the evenings, providing an insight into Bruneian culture.

Hiking in Tutong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Puan

A popular hiking spot with well-marked trails, offering beautiful views of the surrounding rainforest.

Labi Hills

Located a short drive from Tutong, these hills provide challenging trails and stunning landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Tutong by plane.

Brunei International Airport (BWN)

Located approximately 50 km from Tutong, this is the main airport serving Brunei, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tutong is a relatively walkable town, especially in the central area where most amenities are located. Sidewalks are available, and many local attractions can be reached on foot. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances or if you wish to explore more rural surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay

The majority ethnic group in Brunei, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Chinese

A significant minority in Brunei, contributing to the diversity of culture, cuisine, and commerce.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Brunei, with many local teams and leagues.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, popular among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tutong is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town. Public transportation options are limited, with few buses operating, so taxis and private vehicles are the most common means of getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tutong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarian diets.

Halal Food

Brunei is predominantly Muslim, and all food sold is halal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tutong is accessible, with a few public and private clinics available. The Tutong Hospital provides general healthcare services, while specialized care may require traveling to the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brunei

Read more in our Brunei 2025 Travel Guide.

Brunei Travel Guide