Peradayan Forest Reserve

Peradayan Forest Reserve is a protected lowland rainforest area in the eastern part of Temburong District, approximately 15 km east of Bangar near the border with Sarawak, Malaysia. Covering about 1,049 hectares, it is one of the more accessible forest reserves in Brunei and a popular destination for day hikers and nature lovers seeking an escape into primary and secondary dipterocarp forest without the logistical complexity of the Ulu Temburong National Park.

The reserve is dominated by Bukit Peradayan, a low forested hill that offers a manageable hiking challenge and rewarding views from its summit. The forest has a variety of Bornean bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. A picnic area at the entrance makes it a favoured weekend spot for local families. The climate is tropical and humid year-round; the best time to hike is during the drier months of June to September, though the reserve is accessible year-round. The early morning hours offer the coolest conditions and the best wildlife activity.

By Plane

Brunei International Airport (BWN) is about 55 km north-west. A taxi or rental car via the Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge takes about 1 hour to reach Bangar, then another 20 minutes east.

By Train

Limited Information available

By Car / Road

From Bangar, drive east along the main Temburong road (Jalan Labu) for approximately 15 km. The well-signposted entrance and car park are on the left (north) side of the road. A private vehicle is essential as there is no public transport to the reserve. Taxis from Bangar cost around B$20–30 one way.

The reserve is accessed on foot along a single main trail that ascends Bukit Peradayan. The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery after rain. There are no branching paths, so navigation is straightforward. The round trip from the car park to the summit and back takes about 2–3 hours at a moderate pace.

• Bukit Peradayan summit — The main destination, a gentle hill with views over the surrounding forest canopy and across the border into Sarawak. The summit has a small clearing and benches.

• Lowland dipterocarp forest — The trail passes through mature primary and secondary forest with towering meranti, keruing, and kapur trees, as well as rattan palms and giant ferns.

• Birdlife — The reserve is excellent for birdwatching. Look for rhinoceros hornbills, helmeted hornbills, trogons, woodpeckers, and kingfishers.

• Pitcher plants — Several species of Nepenthes pitcher plants can be spotted along the trail edges, especially in the wet season.

• Butterflies — The forest clearing and trail margins host a variety of colourful butterflies, including the Rajah Brooke's birdwing.

• Summit hike — The primary activity. The trail is moderately steep in sections but suitable for reasonably fit walkers. Allow 2–3 hours round trip.

• Birdwatching — Bring binoculars and arrive early (06:00–08:00) for the best bird activity, especially near the summit.

• Picnicking — The shelter and tables at the entrance area are perfect for a packed lunch after the hike.

• Nature photography — The forest, wildflowers, and occasional wildlife offer good photography opportunities.

• Forest bathing — The reserve's quiet, uncrowded trails make it a good place for a peaceful immersion in the rainforest.

• Bangar (20 min drive west) — Kawan Restaurant (Chinese and Malay dishes, B$12–16) or the Bangar Market food hall (budget B$2–5) are the nearest dining options.
• Picnic at the reserve — The picnic shelter at the entrance is a pleasant spot for a self-packed lunch or snack after the hike.

Bring at least 1–2 litres of water per person for the hike. Bottled water can be purchased in Bangar. There are no water sources or vendors at the reserve.

• Mid-range: StoneVille Hotel, Bangar (20 min west) — Clean rooms from B$65.
• Budget: Pusat Belia Youth Hostel, Bangar — Dorm beds from B$15–20.
• Alternative: Bandar Seri Begawan (1 hour west via the bridge) — A wider range of accommodation options for those with their own transport.

There are no shops or vendors at the reserve. Bring all supplies (water, snacks, insect repellent) from Bangar or Bandar Seri Begawan.

• Bangar (15 km west, 20 min drive) — The Temburong District centre with market, restaurants, and accommodation.
• Batu Apoi Forest Reserve (20 km south-west, 25 min) — A larger forest reserve that surrounds Ulu Temburong National Park, with trails and river access.
• Ulu Temburong National Park (45 min south via Bangar + longboat) — The crown jewel of Brunei ecotourism, requiring a full-day commitment.
• Bandar Seri Begawan (55 min via bridge) — The capital with grand mosques, museums, and Kampong Ayer.
• Lawas, Sarawak (40 min east) — Cross the border for a taste of Malaysian Sarawak.