Riau Islands, Indonesian archipelagic province in western Indonesia.
Description
Riau Islands is a province of Indonesia in the western part of the country, covering more than 2000 islands in the South China Sea between Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, and Borneo. The capital Tanjung Pinang sits on one of the larger islands, while the rest of the province consists of smaller inhabited areas and unpopulated landmasses.
History
The region belonged from the 7th century to the Buddhist Srivijaya empire, which controlled trade and religion for centuries until local sultanates and later Dutch colonial rulers managed the islands. After independence, the area was established as a separate province in 2002.
Culture
The area lies in an old trading zone between Malaysia and Indonesia, where inhabitants today still speak several languages and different temples and mosques stand side by side. Visitors notice the influence from trade and migration in markets, festivals, and daily cooking along the coasts.
Practical
Travelers reach the islands by plane through Batam or by ferries from Singapore and other ports in the region. Accommodations range from simple guesthouses to international hotels, with larger islands offering more infrastructure than smaller remote areas.
Did you know?
Gunung Daik on Lingga Island reaches 1,163 meters in elevation and is the highest point in this maritime province. The islands are also home to several primate species that visitors can observe in forested areas away from the busier coastal zones.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Indonesia).
Marina Bay Sands
78.3 km
Universal Studios Singapore
80.3 km
Merlion
79 km
Gardens by the Bay
77.8 km
Jewel Changi Airport
72.4 km
Singapore Flyer
78.4 km
Resorts World Sentosa
80.3 km
National Stadium
78.3 km
Singapore Botanic Gardens
84.3 km
Singapore Zoo
92.4 km
Marina Bay
78.6 km
Orchard Road
82.3 km
Singapore Indoor Stadium
78.1 km
Merlion Park
79 km
Orchard Towers
82.6 km
Transformers: The Ride 3D
80.3 km
Little India
80.5 km
Haw Par Villa
85.7 km
Supertree Grove
77.9 km
Legoland Malaysia
108.6 km
Adventure Cove And Sea Aquarium
80.6 km
Singapore Miniature Zoo
87.6 km
Jurong Bird Park
95 km
The Interlace
83.6 km
National Gallery Singapore
79.5 km
Battlestar Galactica
80.2 km
City Harvest Church
79.2 km
Malaysia–Singapore Second Link
103.8 km
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes