Bolu Kemojo
A frangipani-shaped sponge cake with a soft, sweet texture. A small cake that often makes a souvenir.
Riau
Siak Sri Indrapura
A Malay Palace on the Banks of the Siak River
Destination story
Siak Sri Indrapura is the former seat of the Siak Sultanate on the banks of the Siak River in Riau. Asserayah Hasyimiyah Palace, built in 1889 under Sultan Syarif Hasyim, blends Malay, Arab, and European architecture. Some of the royal collection can still be seen inside.
Walking around the palace, visitors can stroll along the riverbank, see the Tengku Agung Sultanah Latifah Bridge, and stop by buildings left from the sultanate era. Siak preserves strong Malay culture, from music and clothing to oral history.
Riau is also known for Pacu Jalur, a long-boat rowing race in Kuantan Singingi usually held around August. Siak is a good starting point for anyone who wants to know Riau Malay culture through history rather than just beaches.
Why visitOne of the Malay sultanate palaces in Sumatra that still stands grandly and is easy to reach from Pekanbaru.
Highlights & attractions
Things to do
Culture
Must-Try Local Dishes
In Siak Sri Indrapura, try Bolu Kemojo and Roti Jala. Food from other regions
Roti Jala
Thin net-patterned pancakes, folded and eaten with curry sauce. A dish served at Malay celebrations.
Travel tips
- From Pekanbaru, Siak takes about two to three hours by road; check road conditions before you leave.
- Dress modestly when entering the palace and mosques.
- Check the palace's opening hours and entrance fees in person because they can change.
- If you want to see Pacu Jalur, confirm the schedule in Kuantan Singingi before planning your trip.
Open trip packages to Siak Sri Indrapura
1 package available, from IDR 890,000.
