population: 1.2 million

extension: 632.26 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Pekanbaru and interested in visiting museums, you may want to check out the Riau Cultural Park Museum or the Siak Sri Indrapura Museum. For similar types of museums nearby, you could also consider visiting the Sumatra Island Museum in Bukittinggi or the Adityawarman Museum in Padang.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Pekanbaru according to local people are:

1. Nasi Padang - a variety of dishes served with steamed rice, such as beef rendang, curried fish, and spicy eggplant.

2. Gulai Kambing - a curry dish made from goat meat, cooked with coconut milk and spices.

3. Laksa Pekanbaru - a spicy noodle soup made with fish or chicken broth, served with bean sprouts, tofu, and egg.

4. Sate Padang - skewered meat (usually beef) served with a spicy peanut sauce and rice cakes.

5. Martabak Manis - a sweet pancake filled with chocolate, cheese, or peanuts.

6. Es Durian - a dessert made from durian fruit, shaved ice, and condensed milk.

These dishes can be found at many local eateries and food stalls in Pekanbaru.

Activities

Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Pekanbaru include trying out traditional Riau cuisine at local eateries, exploring the Pasar Wisata traditional market for shopping and souvenirs, visiting the Great Mosque of An-Nur to appreciate its stunning architecture, and taking a stroll or cycling around the beautiful Taman Kota park. You may also want to consider watching a traditional dance performance or attending a cultural festival if one is happening during your visit.