Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (SWQ) is an airport located in Pekanbaru, the capital of the Riau province in Indonesia. It is a popular airport for domestic travelers as it serves as a gateway to several destinations in the Riau province, as well as nearby islands such as Sumatra, Batam, and Singapore.
The airport is served by several domestic airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Citilink, Sriwijaya Air, and Batik Air. These airlines operate flights to various destinations within Indonesia including Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, Batam, Jambi, and others. However, there are no direct international flights to SWQ airport as it primarily caters to domestic travelers.
Pekanbaru is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many interesting sights to see in the surrounding area. One popular attraction is the Riau Cultural Park, which is located around 12 kilometers from the airport. This park features several traditional houses from different regions of Riau province, showcasing the various cultures that make up the region. Visitors can also watch cultural performances and taste local cuisine.
Another popular attraction is the Siak Palace, which was built in the 19th century by the Sultan of Siak. The palace is a beautiful example of traditional Malay architecture and is located around 25 kilometers from the airport. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the history of the region.
For nature enthusiasts, there is the Tesso Nilo National Park, which is located around 190 kilometers from Pekanbaru. This park is home to several endangered species such as the Sumatran elephant and tiger, and visitors can take a guided tour of the park to see these animals in their natural habitat.
In terms of culinary tourism, Pekanbaru is famous for its local dishes such as the Padang-style beef rendang and the Riau-style laksa. There are several local restaurants and food stalls where visitors can try these dishes and other local delicacies.
Overall, the SWQ airport serves as an important transportation hub for domestic travelers visiting the Riau province and nearby islands. Its proximity to several cultural and natural attractions makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
