Things to Do in Brunei in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Brunei
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Lowest accommodation prices of the year - luxury hotels drop rates 40-50% during wet season with flash sales common in early March
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations (March 30-31, 2025) offer rare cultural immersion with open houses, traditional kuih sampling, and waived entry to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
- Mangrove wildlife viewing peaks as birds concentrate in dry areas during floods - proboscis monkeys at Pulau Selirong become easily spotted from 4-6pm
- Air quality reaches annual best (PM2.5 below 25) as rain washes away Indonesian haze that typically builds through dry months
Considerations
- Daily thunderstorms between 2-5pm are intense and violent - outdoor activities require morning scheduling or face 2-hour shelter delays
- River tours to Temburong frequently cancel due to rough seas and flooding - only 60% operate as scheduled during March peaks
- Extreme humidity makes walking outdoors exhausting - even 500m (1,640 ft) distances feel challenging for visitors from temperate climates
Best Activities in March
Royal Regalia Museum and Indoor Cultural Sites
March's afternoon storms make air-conditioned cultural sites essential. The Royal Regalia Museum showcases Sultan's ceremonial items and is perfectly timed with Hari Raya preparations. Brunei Museum and Malay Technology Museum provide 3-4 hours of shelter during peak storm periods. Local families also flock here during heavy rains, creating authentic cultural interactions.
Kampong Ayer Water Village Tours
March rains actually enhance the stilted village experience as locals demonstrate traditional flood-adaptation methods. Morning boat tours (7-10am) avoid storms and catch residents starting their day. The contrast between ancient wooden houses and modern Bandar Seri Begawan skyline is most dramatic during March's moody skies.
Ulu Temburong Canopy Walk (Weather Permitting)
When accessible, March's lush post-rain jungle is spectacular. The 60m (197 ft) high canopy walk offers misty rainforest views impossible during dry season. However, river access depends on water levels - only attempt with experienced guides who monitor conditions daily. Success rate is about 40% in March.
Jerudong Park Amusement Rides
March evenings (6-10pm) offer perfect theme park weather after storms pass. Locals celebrate Hari Raya season with family outings here. The park's covered areas and indoor attractions provide flexibility when weather turns. Significantly less crowded than Singapore or Malaysian parks.
Brunei River Sunset Cruises
March's dramatic storm clouds create stunning sunset photography opportunities when weather clears around 6pm. Proboscis monkey sightings increase as they seek shelter in riverside trees. The contrast between golden light and dark storm clouds produces Instagram-worthy shots impossible in clear-sky months.
Shopping Mall Cultural Centers
March storms drive social life into malls like The Mall Gadong and Times Square. These become cultural hubs during Hari Raya season with traditional music performances, food festivals, and local families gathering. Air conditioning provides relief while experiencing authentic local lifestyle during weather extremes.
March Events & Festivals
Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr)
March 30-31, 2025 marks the end of Ramadan with Brunei's most important cultural celebration. Royal open house at Istana Nurul Iman allows public access to the world's largest residential palace. Traditional kuih (sweets), ketupat (rice cakes), and rendang are shared freely. Mosques waive entry restrictions for respectful visitors.
National Day Preparation Activities
Late March sees rehearsals and cultural performances preparing for February National Day spillover events. Local schools and cultural groups practice traditional dances in community centers. Visitors can witness authentic preparation processes rarely seen by tourists.