Tutong: lakes, markets and quiet beaches

Why visit Tutong

Tutong shows you a gentler, village side of Brunei. It is home to the Dusun and Tutong peoples as well as Malays, and you will see traditional crafts, longhouse culture and local foods you won't find in the capital. Roads are good and quiet, so it combines easily with a trip west to Seria and Kuala Belait.

Tasek Merimbun

Brunei's largest natural lake lies deep in the south of the district, surrounded by peat swamp and lowland forest. Its tea coloured water comes from tannins in the vegetation. A wooden walkway leads to a small island in the lake, and there are picnic shelters, short trails and good birdwatching. The park is an ASEAN Heritage Park and is home to rare wildlife, including the white collared fruit bat. Go early in the day, bring insect repellent and allow at least half a day for the round trip.

Seri Kenangan Beach

On the way into Tutong town, the road runs along a narrow sand spit with the South China Sea on one side and the Tutong River on the other. Pantai Seri Kenangan is a popular weekend picnic spot with food stalls and long views. Swimming conditions vary with the season, so follow local advice and any flags.

Tamu Tutong

The weekly market in Tutong town is one of the best in the country, at its busiest on Thursday evenings and Friday mornings. Stalls sell wild jungle fruit, fresh fish, vegetables, handmade cakes, grilled snacks and rattan crafts. It is a great place to try new flavours and chat with traders.

Other things to do

• **Sungai Basong Recreational Park:** a shaded forest park near Tutong town with simple trails.
• **Tutong town:** a small riverside town with a handsome mosque and local cafés.
• **Bukit Ambug:** a forest recreation area with a viewpoint, popular with local walkers.
• **Tamu Kianggeh in the capital:** the same jungle produce if you can't make the Tutong market day.

Where to stay

Most visitors base themselves in Bandar Seri Begawan and visit Tutong for the day. There are a few simple guesthouses and lodges in the district, including near the lake, for those who want a quieter night.

Getting there

There are some buses along the coast road, but they are infrequent. A taxi, a driver for the day or a tour is far easier, especially for Tasek Merimbun, which is well off the main road.

Food and crafts to look for

Tutong is known for its jungle produce and home cooking. At the market, look for wild fruits such as tarap and binjai, fresh river fish, kelupis rice parcels and spicy sambal made from local chillies. The Dusun communities in the district are known for handicrafts, including woven baskets and traditional hats, which make lovely souvenirs. Buying directly from traders supports village families, and many are happy to explain how their goods are made if you ask with a smile.

Getting the timing right

Tasek Merimbun is best in the morning, when birds are active and the heat is gentler. Leave the capital early, spend the morning at the lake, have lunch in Tutong town and finish at Seri Kenangan beach in the late afternoon.

Plan your visit

Combine Tutong with Belait for a full western day out. Our places to visit list covers food and nature stops, and the free trip planner helps you plan the route.