Contents
Ipoh in Perak and Songkhla in southern Thailand are linked by a long road journey that crosses the border between Malaysia and Thailand. The usual road crossing is Bukit Kayu Hitam in Kedah on the Malaysian side and Sadao on the Thai side. Booking platforms list one bus and private transfers for this route.[1]
Ipoh to Songkhla by Bus
Booking platforms list one daily Executive-class bus from Ipoh to Songkhla, departing at 11:30 and taking about 8 hours 2 minutes. The fare is about $20 (October 2026).[1] The bus stops at the border, where you pass Malaysian exit and Thai entry checks yourself, so keep your passport and luggage with you.
The border crossing
The busiest crossing between the two countries is Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam. A new Sadao CIQ checkpoint with a road link to the Bukit Kayu Hitam complex was opened officially on 10 July 2026.[2] All foreign visitors must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online, up to 3 days before arriving in Thailand.[3]
Ipoh to Songkhla by Private Transfer
Booking platforms list private transfers from Ipoh to Songkhla in about 6 hours, in sedans, MPVs and vans of 7 and 14 passengers. Prices are per vehicle and run from about $282 to about $386 (October 2026).[1]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Executive bus | About $20 per person[1] | About 8h 2m[1] |
| Private transfer | About $282 to $386 per vehicle[1] | About 6h[1] |
Tips for Traveling from Ipoh to Songkhla
- Border readiness: Check whether your nationality needs a visa for Thailand, and submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before you cross.
- Thai baht: Have a small amount of Thai baht ready for snacks or local transport on arrival.
- Food and water: Pack water and snacks for the long ride.
Timetable
| Bus Ipoh - Songkhla $ 19.67 8h 2m | |
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| Taxi Ipoh - Songkhla $ 279.36–382.06 6h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Ipoh to Songkhla, including current prices and schedules.
The bus is the cheapest option. Booking platforms list one Executive-class bus for about $20.
A private transfer is the fastest option and takes about 6 hours. The bus takes about 8 hours 2 minutes.
The bus takes about 8 hours 2 minutes and a private transfer about 6 hours, depending on the wait at the border.
You pass Malaysian exit checks and Thai entry checks at the border, so keep your passport and luggage with you.
Yes. All foreign visitors must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online, up to 3 days before arrival.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] 12Go: Ipoh - Songkhla timetable. Retrieved October 17, 2026.
- [2] Government Public Relations Department, Thailand: Opening of the New CIQ Sadao - ICQS Bukit Kayu Hitam Road Alignment. Retrieved October 17, 2026.
- [3] Immigration Bureau, Royal Thai Police: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Retrieved October 17, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.