The Royal Regalia and Bandar

The Royal Regalia Museum, in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, offers a dazzling glimpse into the wealth and ceremony of Brunei's monarchy, one of the oldest and richest in the world. Its centrepiece is the spectacular gilded royal chariot used in the Sultan's Silver Jubilee, surrounded by glittering crowns, jewelled ceremonial weapons, golden regalia and a vast array of lavish gifts presented to the Sultan by world leaders. The museum sits amid the capital's tranquil, immaculate streets, mosques and monuments, reflecting the quiet, orderly prosperity of the oil-rich sultanate.

What you actually see

• The royal chariot - the gilded ceremonial chariot of the Sultan.
• The crowns and regalia - the glittering ceremonial treasures.
• The state gifts - the lavish gifts from world leaders.
• The capital's monuments - the tranquil, immaculate city around it.

When to go

Year-round; the air-conditioned museum is a comfortable stop any time and, being free, is a highlight of a capital tour, easily combined with the nearby mosques and water village. As in all of Brunei, modest dress is expected, and shoes are removed before entering the exhibition halls.

Honest expectations

The museum's celebration of royal opulence and gifts can feel one-note to some, essentially a glittering showcase of the monarchy's wealth, and Bandar Seri Begawan itself is quiet, orderly and low-key, without the buzz or nightlife of other Southeast Asian capitals, in keeping with Brunei's conservative, alcohol-free character. As a free, fascinating glimpse into the ceremony of one of the world's richest and most enduring monarchies, though, it is well worth a visit.

Nearby

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Kampong Ayer are close by.