Riau offers several distinct reasons to visit: Malay history, Buddhist temple architecture, natural areas and long-standing events. To plan your trip, it helps to decide early what you want to focus on: would you like to explore historic sites, experience landscapes by the water or plan your trip around a festival? The examples below show the range of cultural and natural attractions in Riau.

History and Architecture

Istana Siak Asserayah Al-Hasyimiah in Siak Regency was designated a museum by Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture. As a historic landmark, it represents Malay history and is considered a testament to the heyday of the Siak Sultanate and Sultan Syarif Kasim II’s efforts for Indonesia’s independence. This historical connection links the history of the sultanate with a topic in the history of the nation.

Another point of interest is Candi Muara Takus, a Buddhist temple complex in Muara Takus village, XIII Koto Kampar District, Kampar Regency, Riau Province. The complex’s building materials include brick, sandstone and river stones. In this way, a landmark of Malay history and a Buddhist temple complex represent different historical and religious themes in Riau. Visiting conditions at Candi Muara Takus may change; check them before your visit.

Rainforest, Protected Areas and Water

Tesso Nilo National Park is a lowland rainforest in Riau covering 83,068 hectares; authorities may update the boundaries of protected areas. Zamrud National Park is in Siak Regency and was officially designated a peatland area on July 22, 2016. Visitors can take a boat on the Sungai Rawa to Danau Pulau Besar in Zamrud National Park. At Danau Khayangan, visitors can go boating or fishing.

Tengku Agung Sultanah Latifah Bridge offers a different view of the landscape: an elevator leads to the top of the bridge, where you can take in a panoramic view of the Siak River from above. As operating procedures may change, check the current rules in advance.

Cultural Events and Dates

The traditional boat race Pacu Jalur originated in the Kuantan Singingi region. Teams compete in boats made from hollowed-out tree trunks; these boats are called jalur. Each jalur is made from a single tree, measures 25 to 40 meters in length and holds 45 to 60 rowers. The annual Pacu Jalur Festival in Kuantan Singingi celebrates a centuries-old tradition; exact event dates vary.

The Bekudo Bono Festival has a different focus: its program includes a Bono wave race, surfing competitions for professionals and amateurs, music and cultural performances, and traditional games. It takes place every year in November on the Kampar River in Teluk Meranti, Pelalawan. Check the dates and program for the year you plan to travel, as the program may vary between editions.

Bakar Tongkang is also an annual ritual: it is part of the Chinese community in Bagansiapiapi, Riau. The exact dates vary according to the Chinese calendar. If you want to travel specifically for this ritual, plan your trip around the calendar for that year.

Discover more destinations: Sekupang, Tanjung Pinang, Pekanbaru, Kapulauan Riau, Rokan Hilir, Dumai, Moro, Teluk Bakau, Toapaya, Bonai Darussalam, Indragiri Hilir, Batam, Bengkalis, Kabupaten Karimun, Kawal, Ukui, Tembilahan, Kundur.

For the broader travel overview: Indonesia.