Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque - Brunei’s Crown Jewel

Constructed in 1992 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the current Sultan’s accession to the throne, the glittering and lavish Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque stands as one of the grandest Islamic monuments in South East Asia and is Brunei’s largest place of worship.

Known locally as the royal Kiarong Mosque, this architectural masterpiece stands on twenty acres of landscaped gardens roughly 3km’s from the city of Bandar Seri Begawan. 29 gold-covered domes and four slender, terrazzo-tiled minarets soar 52 metres above a sea-blue roof and dominate the surrounding skyline.

The dome is constructed from a mosaic of stained glass, all etched with Quranic calligraphy

Symbolic of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s place as the 29th ruler of his dynasty, the beautiful domes also represent each of Brunei's hereditary Sultans who have ruled continuously for over 600 years.

The central chandelier in the main prayer room drips with a staggering 3.5 tons of gold and Swarovski crystals

Blending traditional Islamic accents and modern aesthetics, the opulent interior features vast domed ceilings, exquisite geometric tiles and masterful woodwork. The massive and visually striking prayer room can hold up to 5000 worshippers.

Minarets serve two main functions; to perform the call to prayer and to act as a symbol of Islam

Location: Simpang 127, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

How to get there: To get to the Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, head to the central bus station, located close to the Waterfront at Jalan Cator. The bus station is below a multi-storey car park and is accessible down the side streets. The bus will cost $1.00, take bus number 1. Alternatively, this mosque is included in all city day tours, which will cost between $40-$60. Otherwise, just walk.

Attraction Info: General opening hours are Sun to Wed 8am- 12noon , 2pm-3pm and 5pm-6pm. The mosque may be open on Saturdays if there is no official function the following day. It is closed on Thursdays and Fridays and during prayer times. Admission is free and guides may be available to show you around. Shoes are to be removed before entering and you must wear a black robe to go inside, which will also be provided for free. Camera’s are strictly prohibited inside.

جامع عصر حسن بلقيه

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