# Nias Island > island in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia **Wikidata**: [Q505707](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q505707) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nias) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/nias-island ## Summary Nias Island is a sub-continental island located in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, known for its distinct cultural heritage and geographical significance. It is part of Indonesia's archipelagic territory and is administratively situated within the province of North Sumatra. ## Key Facts - **Aliases:** Nayas, Nias Island - **Location:** North Sumatra Province, Indonesia - **Population:** 788,132 - **Coordinates:** Latitude: 1.06793055555556, Longitude: 97.6009305555555 - **Capital City Nearby:** Gunungsitoli (established April 6, 1678; reorganized November 26, 2008) - **Country:** Indonesia - **Province:** North Sumatra - **Wikipedia Title:** Nias - **Wikidata Description:** island in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia ## FAQs **Where is Nias Island located?** Nias Island is located in the North Sumatra Province of Indonesia. It lies in the western part of the Indonesian archipelago, off the west coast of Sumatra. **What is the population of Nias Island?** The population of Nias Island is approximately 788,132 people, according to available data. **What is the administrative status of Nias Island?** Nias Island is part of the North Sumatra Province and does not have a separate provincial status. It is not an independent administrative region but falls under the jurisdiction of the province. **What is the capital city on Nias Island?** Gunungsitoli is the main city on Nias Island and serves as a local administrative and cultural center. It was first established on April 6, 1678, and reorganized on November 26, 2008. **What are the geographical coordinates of Nias Island?** Nias Island is located at approximately latitude 1.06793055555556 and longitude 97.6009305555555. **What is the significance of Nias Island in Indonesia?** Nias Island is notable for its unique cultural traditions, surfing destinations, and historical importance in the region. It also contributes to Indonesia's maritime geography and local biodiversity. ## Why It Matters Nias Island holds cultural, geographic, and demographic significance within Indonesia. As part of the North Sumatra Province, it represents a unique blend of traditional customs and natural beauty, contributing to Indonesia's rich archipelagic identity. The island also plays a role in regional tourism and cultural preservation, offering insights into indigenous traditions and environmental diversity. Its location and population make it a key part of Indonesia's maritime and cultural landscape. ## Notable For - Being part of Indonesia’s diverse archipelagic geography - Hosting the city of Gunungsitoli, a historical and administrative hub - Cultural uniqueness, including traditional architecture and surfing locations - Hosting a population exceeding 788,000 - Being a part of the North Sumatra Province, which is known for its distinct cultural and natural heritage ## Body ### Geography and Location Nias Island is located in the Indian Ocean, off the western coast of Sumatra. It is part of the North Sumatra Province and is surrounded entirely by water, qualifying it as a sub-continental island. The island is geographically positioned at approximately latitude 1.06793055555556 and longitude 97.6009305555555. It is known for its distinct topography, including surf breaks and traditional settlements. ### Administrative Context Nias Island is administratively part of North Sumatra Province, which was established on April 15, 1948. The island does not function as a separate province but holds local significance. The city of Gunungsitoli, located on the island, plays a central role in local governance and cultural preservation. Gunungsitoli was first established on April 6, 1678, and reorganized on November 26, 2008. ### Demographics and Population Nias Island is home to a population of approximately 788,132. The island's inhabitants are known for their rich cultural traditions, including the practice of traditional architecture and rituals. The local population contributes significantly to the island's identity and economic activity, particularly in tourism and fishing. ### Cultural and Natural Significance Nias Island is notable for its traditional architecture, including the iconic "Mbaru Nihi" houses. The island also hosts several surf breaks that attract international surfers, contributing to its tourism economy. The island's cultural practices, including traditional music and dance, are preserved and celebrated locally. ### Related Entities - **Gunungsitoli:** A city located on Nias Island, established in 1678 and reorganized in 2008. - **North Sumatra Province:** The administrative province to which Nias Island belongs, established in 1948. - **Indonesia:** The sovereign state of which Nias Island is a part, recognized for its independence on August 17, 1945, and internationally on December 27, 1949. ### Infrastructure and Technical Details - **Coordinates:** Latitude: 1.06793055555556, Longitude: 97.6009305555555 - **Wikipedia Title:** Nias - **Wikidata Description:** island in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia - **Aliases:** Nayas, Nias Island - **Sitelink Count:** 54 ### Tourism and Surfing Nias Island is internationally recognized for its surf breaks, particularly in areas like Sorake Bay and Lagundri Bay. These locations attract surfers from around the world, contributing to the island's tourism economy. The island's waves are known for their consistency and quality, making it a destination for professional and amateur surfers alike. ### Environmental and Ecological Features Nias Island is part of Indonesia's biodiversity, contributing to the country's status as one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries. The island's marine and terrestrial ecosystems support a variety of species, including endemic flora and fauna. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these natural resources. ## References 1. Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs Decree Number 050-145 of 2022 2. Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs Decree 300.2.2-2138 of 2025 3. Gazetteer of the Republic of Indonesia, Island Landform Elements, Volume 3, 2024 Edition 4. Virtual International Authority File 5. Integrated Authority File 6. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap) 7. BnF authorities 8. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 9. [Source](https://www.visitniasisland.com/about-pulau-nias/) 10. GeoNames 11. Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs Decree 100.1.1-6117 Of 2022 12. Quora 13. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File