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Castles & palaces

Istana Darul Hana

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Istana Darul Hana

About the Site

Istana Darul Hana is a hilltop palace in Bandar Seri Begawan that served as the residence of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III from 1951 to 1987. As one of the few surviving historic palaces in Brunei, it offers significant historical value for travellers interested in local royal heritage.

Getting There

The property is located near central Bandar Seri Begawan. A drive by car or taxi from downtown takes about 5 to 10 minutes. From Brunei International Airport (BWN), the drive takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes.

Visit Duration

Plan for roughly 30 to 45 minutes to view the building exterior and walk the surrounding grounds.

When to Visit

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid high midday temperatures. The site rarely gets crowded, ensuring a calm stop at any time.

Nearby Attractions

The location can easily be paired with several nearby points of interest:

  • Kedayan River (1.2 km): A waterway with scenic waterfront paths.
  • Istana Nurul Iman (1.2 km): The official residence of the current Sultan of Brunei.
  • Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas (1.4 km): A landscaped public park by the river.
  • Jong Batu (1.5 km): A historical rock outcrop situated in the Brunei River.

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Istana Darul Hana

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Istana Darul Hana Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Bandar Seri Begawan 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Bandar Seri Begawan grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Bandar Seri Begawan 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Bandar Seri Begawan grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Kedayan River

Nature

Kedayan River

This river runs through Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. As a tributary of the Brunei River, it blends into the city's downtown scenery.

1.2 km away
Istana Nurul Iman

Castles & palaces

Istana Nurul Iman

The residence of the Sultan of Brunei, this palace sits by the river near downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. It's a grand structure recognized as the largest residential and administrative palace in the world.

1.2 km away
Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas

Parks & gardens

Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas

A riverside park in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, opened to mark the 50th anniversary of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's reign. It's a pleasant spot for a stroll or a relaxing break by the river breeze.

1.4 km away
Jong Batu

Nature

Jong Batu

This rocky islet rises from the Brunei River, resembling the bow of a ship jutting out of the water when viewed from the bank. It's linked to the legend of Nakhoda Manis, making it an interesting spot to explore while hearing the story.

1.5 km away
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Located in downtown Bandar Seri Begawan, this mosque is one of the largest and oldest in Brunei. Named after a former sultan, it is regarded as a symbol of Brunei's Islamic faith and draws a steady stream of visitors.

1.6 km away
Istana Darussalam

Castles & palaces

Istana Darussalam

The palace where Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei was born and which once served as the residence of the previous sultan. It is now a protected heritage site and a popular attraction for tourists.

1.7 km away