The river originates in the Barisan Mountains of West Sumatra and flows to the island's eastern coast, emptying into the Malacca Strait, directly opposite Singapore. It is the confluence of two tributaries of almost equal size: Kampar Kanan River (or Right Kampar), and Kampar Kiri River (or Left Kampar). Kampar Kanan River passes through Lima Puluh Kota Regency and Kampar Regency, while Kampar Kiri River passes through Sijunjung Regency, Kuantan Singingi Regency, and Kampar Regency.