Nestled on the lush banks of the Kianggeh River, Tamu Kianggeh offers a vibrant glimpse into the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei’s bustling capital. This market isn't just a place; it's a lively exchange of Brunei's rich cultural tapestry where local vendors bring their colourful stalls to life with an array of fresh produce and genuine goods. As you plan your journey to this serene yet sovereign island nation on Borneo, the charm and bustle of Tamu Kianggeh beckon.

It's more than a tourist destination; it's a daily celebration of community and tradition, providing a rare peek into the day-to-day lives of Bruneians who have been gathering here for generations to sell, buy, and share stories under the warm embrace of the early morning sun.

Walking through Tamu Kianggeh, you’ll be ensconced in the authentic essence of Brunei. Every stall, every aroma, and every sound tells a story of a nation's heritage and the bounty of its land. Fruits, vegetables, spices, and textiles in every hue of the rainbow create a palette that pleases the senses, while handcrafted goods offer a tangible piece of Bruneian tradition to take home.

Beyond the tangible, the market is a feast for the senses; the fragrant smells of local delicacies waft through the air, inviting you to taste and indulge in culinary wonders that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Read also: Must-eat Food at Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong, Brunei

Table of Content

1. Popular Market in Bandar Seri Begawan
2. Bruneian Food at Tamu Kianggeh
3. Things to Buy at the Market
4. Best Time to Visit
5. How to Get to Tamu Kianggeh
6. Contact Information

Tamu Kianggeh: Local Market in Brunei

Tamu Kianggeh: Best Local Market in Brunei

Popular Market in Bandar Seri Begawan

Tamu Kianggeh is a market that's made up of a variety of stalls selling everything from food and beverages to souvenirs and daily supplies. The overall condition of the market is clean, orderly, and well-organised, and it is considerably quieter and more peaceful compared to other markets. The selection of vegetables here is great, and it is evident that it is a major food supply for the people.

The atmosphere is slow and relaxed – you can take your time to explore each stall without feeling rushed. The prices for the goods are reasonable, starting from as low as BND$0.50. Not only that, you can also rent a bicycle to explore the rest of Bandar Seri Begawan for only BND$5 (30 minutes) or BND$10 (1 hour).

You will observe many locals making their way to the market conveniently by water taxis before returning to the neighbouring water villages.

Tamu Kianggeh is a popular local market in Brunei

You can find wild vegetables grown in the thick Borneon jungles here at Tamu Kianggeh

At Tamu Kianggeh, you can find everything from food and beverages to souvenirs and daily supplies.

Bruneian Food at Tamu Kianggeh

As you meander through the lanes of Tamu Kianggeh, your senses are awakened by the symphony of flavors and aromas emanating from the plethora of local street food stalls, each promising a culinary adventure unique to Brunei.

Beyond the allure of finding a bargain, your palate is drawn to the vibrant tastes of traditional dishes such as the comforting Nasi Lemak, wrapped in banana leaves, subtly fragrant Nasi Sambal Tahai, the simplicity of Nasi Katok offering a trilogy of rice, fried chicken, and sambal, or the sweet, glutinous allure of Nasi Pulut. Let the warmth of Mi Soto, a rich noodle soup, embrace you, or bite into the crisp, goldenshell of cucur.

For the more adventurous, the bold, pungent aroma of durians beckons. Wash it all down with colourful sweetened drinks or indulge in an array of kuih, sweet desserts that paint a picture of Brunei’s culinary journey, bite after delightful bite.

A visit to Tamu Kianggeh is incomplete without diving into its culinary treasures. Each dish tells a story of tradition, community, and the rich tapestry of Bruneian culture. Here, food is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of life’s simple pleasures, shared over conversations with local vendors, amidst the buzz of this bustling marketplace.

As you explore, taste, and savour, you’re not just a visitor sampling foreign delicacies; you become immersed in the heartbeat of Brunei, discovering the soul of its people through the universal language of food. In this lively market by the river, every meal is an invitation to experience the authentic spirit of Brunei, leaving you with flavourful memories that linger long after your journey.

Explore the amazing local street food while visiting Tamu Kianggeh in Brunei.

Things to Buy at the Market

There are many things that you can buy here at Tamu Kianggeh. You may easily find fresh fruits and vegetables at reasonable prices. Other than that, you can also find bario rice, wild edible ferns, tasty snacks, antiques, ornaments, as well as aromatic herbs and spices. While you are here, don’t forget to shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts such as hand-woven baskets, trays, vases, and pots to bring home.

You can buy locally produced items such as Ikan Bilis or dried anchovies to bring home as souvenirs!

Bario rice is a popular local product as it is cultivated by hand without the use of harmful pesticides or herbicides

You can find traditional food, edible ferns, bamboo shoots, snacks, poultry, antiques, ornaments, and more.

Fresh fruits and vegetables can be found here at a very cheap price!

Choose from a wide range of traditional handicrafts such as hand-woven baskets, trays, vases, and pots.

Best Time to Visit

It is advisable to visit Tamu Kianggeh Market as early as 5 in the morning for the best experience. During dawn, the farmers begin displaying and organising their goods so you will get a better chance in choosing the best and freshest produce during this hour. It is also better to visit during the morning, as most of the stalls close around 4pm.

The best time to visit Tamu Kianggeh is at 5 in the morning.

How to Get to Tamu Kianggeh

This market is located very close to the bus station and is within walking distance from most locations in Bandar Seri Begawan. Visitors may get to the Tamu Kianggeh market by foot, a local bus, cab or even by hopping onto a water taxi!

Contact Information

Address: Jalan Sungai Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8111, Brunei.

Opening hours: 8am–5.30pm 

This local hidden gem is the ideal destination to shop for fresh produce at a cheaper price. Tamu Kianggeh is both an accessible and recommended spot for travellers who want to explore the authentic Bruneian street food and way of life.

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