Location: Pekanbaru
Top Things to do in Pekanbaru
The 10 Best Things to Do in Pekanbaru, Indonesia
Pekanbaru (Jawi: ڤكنبارو, Chinese: 北干巴鲁; pinyin: Běigānbālǔ, Dutch: Pakanbaroe), is the capital of Indonesian province of Riau, and a major economic center on the eastern part of Sumatra Island. It has an area of 632.26 km² with a population of 1,093,416. Located on the banks of the Siak River, which drains into the Strait of Malacca, Pekanbaru has direct access to the busy strait and was long known as a trading port. Pekanbaru was originally built as a market by Minangkabau merchants during the 18th century. Its name is derived from the Malay words for 'new market' ('pekan' is market and 'baru' is new).
Restaurants in Pekanbaru
1. An-Nur Grand Mosque
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 169 reviews
Reviewed By Yudi A - Pekanbaru
Visiting Grand Mosque of in the capital of Riau province reinforce the impression that the State of Malay is very nuance his Islam. Mosque which has been established since the early 60's shows the history of the greatness and splendor of Islam in the Malay land. Very spacious grounds of the mosque can be used a wide variety of social activities, especially the weekend will be a lot of children, teenagers, parents and even families come for recreation and exercise
2. HS Soeman Library
Overall Ratings
4 based on 106 reviews
Reviewed By VAS1586 - Qingdao, China
While I moved out of Indonesia six years ago, this library was a new fledgling and now I return back after six years to find this place has turned into an education hub! Plenty of books, students buzzing around and as usual girls out-numbering boys in utilizing the faculties and most boys simply are escorts for girls! An eatery ground floor. English books are in an entirely separate section mostly in the upper floor. A very nice place for reference material in a good environment.......a bit noisy or with lots of teen movements here and there could be disturbing sometimes.
3. Mall Ciputra Seraya
Overall Ratings
4 based on 89 reviews
Reviewed By paul s - Tonbridge, United Kingdom
Ok it's a mall that caters for girls but at least there are shops a chap might want to actually go in to buy something. Traffic is never good but you can usually get in out and park without crying in despair . (See SKA for alternatives.)
Biggest plus is the cinema, great modern facility at a bargain price. Suggest spending the day there while the girls shop or head across the street for a cracking Martini in the Novotel bar.
4. An-Nur Great Mosquea
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By BangFei - Pekanbaru, Indonesia
The Great Mosque An-Nur, Pekanbaru, is the largest mosque in town, in term of both building and yard. Its shape remind us about Taj Mahal so that in addition to the place of praying, the mosque is a photographic destination for tourists, visitors, or regular jama'a. Its yard is also utilized by joggers but must be in sharia way of cloth and conduct. Don't miss it if you visit Pekanbaru.
5. Mall Ska Pekanbaru
Overall Ratings
4 based on 104 reviews
6. Muara Takus
Overall Ratings
4 based on 28 reviews
Reviewed By Raymond W - Chengdu, China
Situated 120 kms from the provincial capital of Pekanbaru, the ancient Buddhist temple complex of Muara Takus is the best historical site in the region. Featuring the only ancient Mahayana Buddhist stupa in Indonesia, as well as a terraced temple and some sparkly sandstone ornamentation, this site is a rare reminder of Sumatra's Hindu-Buddhist past.
On the down side, it is off the main road in a remote area, so you will have to rent a taxi from Pekanbaru to get out here, which will set you back at least a couple of hundred thousand rupiah. But it is worth it to view one of South-East Asia's lesser known historical sites.
7. Minas Elephant Training Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By LucyLu_Texas - Houston, Texas
Located outside Minas village in jungle of Minas oilfield. 16 elephants are lovingly cared for & trained by onsite trainers & their families. No chains – elephants are free range. First, a 15, 30 or 1 hour ride through the jungle on the elephants. You ride on a saddle-like device for 2 people plus a trainer riding bareback. Other trainers follow with your camera for photos. Then the show where 5 elephants perform for you – old-school circus tricks, basketball, playing soccer, playing the harmonica, etc. Commentary is given in very broken English. Finally everyone gets to help feed the elephants – sugar cane, watermelon & bananas. The elephants are very much loved & cared for and it’s a charming family-friendly morning. Call ahead to make arrangements for a visit & to get directions as it’s very much off the beaten path – maybe 5 km off the paved road in Minas village.
8. Ar-Rahman Mosque
Overall Ratings
4 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By BangFei - Pekanbaru, Indonesia
Just medium in size and its yard but the mosque is beautiful and located at the heart of Pekanbaru City. Its architecture performs a classic taste but it was built in a modern way. It is shown on its ornaments and building parts. However, we still feel cool and sacred inside the praying hall. Many employees from business offices surround, and people passing by as well, come to the mosque everyday for praying and short lectures.
9. Alam Mayang
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By Joe A - Pekanbaru, Indonesia
It's located on Jalan Harapan Raya. You can do some outdoor activities there, such as : fishing, picnic, outbond and others. You can bring your own food and drinks since they sell it quite expensive there. You have to pay the entrance fee as well. But unfortunately, it's pretty dirty since you can find the rubbish here and there.
Well, it's still a good place in town to chill because they have a lot of trees and a small pond. So that you can relax for awhile from the city noisiness.
10. Pekanbaru Great Mosque
Overall Ratings
4 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By BangFei - Pekanbaru, Indonesia
As old as the City where it's located, Pekanbaru Grand Mosque is the oldest mosque in town. Before being renovated, the masjid is an old style building with many big columns and simple metal plate dome. Now it appears new style of architecture with six last columns are kept as memorable parts.The masjid has been renovated step by step for about three years. Its new wall to wall floor is very special, made of imported wide white marble. Whatever, it is still a part of the old town of Pekanbaru and remarking the history this town.
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