Bangar - a sleepy small town in Brunei and the capital of Temburong district - while being a bit of a bore in itself, is gateway to the stunning Batu Apoi Forest Reserve and ultimately Ulu Temburong National Park.
Bangar is one of the more isolated Bruneian towns, due to Sarawak’s Limbang district separating it from the mainland. It is thus fairly inaccessible from Bandar Seri Begawan, yet can be reached by speedboat from the capital within an hour, which is part of the allure of the place.
The boat ride takes in many of Borneo’s meandering rivers, which snake through pristine rainforest before hitting the gateway to Batu Apoi Forest Reserve and Ulu Temburong National Park at Bangar. This area is also famously the source of much of the quarried stone in the area. As for the town itself, it’s not worth spending much time at.
Getting There & Away
Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan is the gateway to Brunei and Bangar and is about 30 miles away. You’ll need to take a speedboat from the main jetty in Bandar to Bangar, a 45-minute journey.
Things to Do
Bangar Attractions
- Ulu Temburong National Park
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This is the main reason for visiting bangar and rivals any national park in malaysia. the canopy walkway is 150 feet above the forest floor and is the highlight.
- Batu Apoi Forest Reserve
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This virgin forest is accessible only by boat and encompasses ulu temburong national park.
- Restoran Hijrah
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This restaurant is a must-visit in bangar, with its fantastic river prawns and chinese and malay-influenced tastes.
- Quarries
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Check out the local quarries which are the main source of boulders that go to bandar seri begawan and the building industries.
- Boat rides
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Charter a boat and take to the river around bangar.