Langkawi, also known as the Jewel of Kedah, is a tropical island paradise off the northwest coast of Malaysia. Known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and duty-free shopping, Langkawi is a favorite getaway for both locals and tourists. Traveling from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Langkawi is easy, with several transport options available. This guide covers all transportation options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus and Ferry: A budget-friendly alternative for those who prefer land and sea travel.
- By Train and Ferry: A scenic journey combining train and ferry transport.
- By Private Car and Ferry: Ideal for those traveling with their own vehicle.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi.
Timetable
| Flight Kuala Lumpur - Langkawi RM 121.02–535.79 1h 5m – 1d 7h 19m | |
|
By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel. Flights operate daily and take just 1 hour.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA/KLIA2) or Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport, SZB).
- Arrival Point: Langkawi International Airport (LGK).
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Price: 60 to 300 MYR (~$12 to $65 USD), depending on season and airline.
- Airlines:
- Malaysia Airlines (full-service airline).
- AirAsia (budget-friendly option).
- Firefly (operates from Subang Airport).
- Batik Air (formerly Malindo Air, offers mid-range services).
Pros:
- Fastest way to reach Langkawi.
- Multiple daily flights, providing flexible schedules.
- Ideal for travelers with limited time.
Cons:
- Ticket prices can rise during peak travel seasons.
- Limited public transport at Langkawi Airport (most visitors rent a car or take a taxi).
Booking Tip:
Book flights early for the best fares, especially during public holidays and peak tourist seasons. Use our online search form to find and book your flight tickets.
By Bus and Ferry: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
If you prefer a cheaper but longer journey, taking a bus and ferry combination is a great choice. This route involves traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah, followed by a ferry to Langkawi.
Option 1: Via Kuala Perlis (Shortest Ferry Ride)
- Step 1: Take a bus from KL to Kuala Perlis.
- Departure Points: TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) in KL.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours.
- Price: 50 to 80 MYR (~$10 to $18 USD).
- Step 2: Take a ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi.
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Price: 18 MYR (~$4 USD).
Option 2: Via Kuala Kedah (More Bus Options)
- Step 1: Take a bus from KL to Kuala Kedah.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
- Price: 40 to 70 MYR (~$9 to $15 USD).
- Step 2: Take a ferry from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi.
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Price: 23 MYR (~$5 USD).
Pros:
- Cheaper than flying.
- Scenic ferry ride to Langkawi.
- Multiple bus departures daily.
Cons:
- Long travel time (7 to 9 hours in total).
- Requires transfers between bus and ferry.
- Limited ferry schedules in the evening.
Booking Tip:
Ferry and bus tickets should be booked in advance during peak travel seasons. Use our online search form to check bus and ferry availability.
By Train and Ferry: A Scenic but Slower Journey
For travelers who prefer trains, you can take the ETS (Electric Train Service) from KL Sentral to Arau, then a taxi to Kuala Perlis, and finally a ferry to Langkawi.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a train from KL Sentral to Arau.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
- Price: 70 to 100 MYR (~$15 to $22 USD).
- Step 2: Take a taxi from Arau to Kuala Perlis.
- Duration: 15 minutes.
- Price: 20 to 30 MYR (~$5 to $7 USD).
- Step 3: Take a ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi.
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Price: 18 MYR (~$4 USD).
Pros:
- More comfortable than a bus.
- Scenic train ride through Malaysia’s countryside.
- ETS trains are fast and reliable.
Cons:
- Requires multiple transfers.
- Longer journey than flying.
Booking Tip:
ETS train tickets should be booked in advance, especially during weekends. Use our online search form to check availability.
By Private Car and Ferry: Ideal for Travelers with a Vehicle
For travelers who want to bring their own car to Langkawi, driving from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah and taking the car ferry is an option.
Key Details:
- Driving Distance: 450 km (5–6 hours) from KL to Kuala Perlis.
- Car Ferry from Kuala Perlis:
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Price: 140 to 250 MYR (~$30 to $55 USD), depending on vehicle size.
Pros:
- Flexible and comfortable travel option.
- Ideal for families who want their own vehicle on Langkawi.
Cons:
- Long drive from KL.
- Limited car ferry slots (early booking required).
Booking Tip:
Car ferry slots sell out fast during weekends. Use our online search form to secure a ticket in advance.
Final Tips for Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to April) offers ideal weather for beach activities.
- Book Early for Public Holidays: Flights, buses, and ferries fill up fast during Malaysian holidays and school breaks.
- Pack Light: If taking a ferry, luggage space is limited.
