Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, is known for its Petronas Towers, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Located 350 km (217 miles) south of Penang, Kuala Lumpur is accessible by flight, train, bus, or private car. This guide covers all available travel 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 Penang to Kuala Lumpur:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Train: A comfortable and scenic land option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but slower alternative.
- By Private Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
Timetable
| Flight Penang - Kuala Lumpur RM 77.89–2,849.38 1h – 1d 5h 14m | |
|
By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur is the quickest and easiest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Penang International Airport (PEN).
- Arrival Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA & KLIA2) or Subang Airport (SZB).
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Price: 70–250 MYR (~$15–$55 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- Malaysia Airlines (full-service, most reliable).
- AirAsia, Batik Air, Firefly (budget airlines).
- Flight Frequency: Over 30 daily flights from morning to evening.
Airport Transfer in Kuala Lumpur
- KLIA to City Center: 40–50 minutes by KLIA Ekspres train,
55 MYR ($12 USD). - KLIA to City by Taxi/Grab: 1 hour,
80–120 MYR ($18–$25 USD). - Subang Airport to City Center: 30 minutes by taxi,
40 MYR ($10 USD).
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~1 hour flight, 2 hours total with transfers).
- Multiple flights available throughout the day.
- Affordable options with budget airlines.
Cons:
- Flights can be delayed due to weather.
- Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.
Booking Tip:
For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Train: A Comfortable and Scenic Land Option
For travelers who prefer comfort and scenery, taking the ETS (Electric Train Service) from Penang to Kuala Lumpur is a great choice.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Butterworth Railway Station (connects to Penang Island via ferry or bridge).
- Arrival Station: KL Sentral, Kuala Lumpur.
- Duration: 4 to 4.5 hours.
- Price: 34–79 MYR (~$7–$17 USD), depending on class.
- Train Operator: KTM ETS (Malaysia’s high-speed train service).
- Seating Options:
- Platinum Class (Fastest, fewer stops, best comfort).
- Gold Class (Mid-range option, slightly slower, affordable).
- Departure Frequency: Multiple daily departures from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Comfortable and air-conditioned.
- More spacious than buses or flights.
- Scenic views along the route.
Cons:
- Longer travel time than flights.
- Limited departures compared to buses.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book Platinum Class tickets. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Slower Alternative
For budget travelers, taking a bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur is the cheapest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal (Penang Island).
- Butterworth Bus Terminal (Mainland Penang).
- Arrival Point: TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan), Kuala Lumpur.
- Duration: 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 35–60 MYR (~$8–$13 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- KKKL Express, Sri Maju, Plusliner (budget options).
- Aeroline, Nice Executive Coach (premium options with onboard meals).
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities).
- Luxury Bus (Larger seats, onboard entertainment, meals included).
- Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes to 1 hour from 6:00 AM to midnight.
Pros:
- Cheaper than flights and trains.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Traffic congestion can cause delays.
- Less comfortable than the train.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a VIP or luxury bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private car from Penang to Kuala Lumpur is an option.
Key Details:
- Route: Penang → Kuala Lumpur via North-South Expressway (E1).
- Distance: 350 km (217 miles).
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
50 MYR ($11 USD). - Fuel Cost:
80 MYR ($18 USD). - Car Rental Price: 150–350 MYR per day (~$30–$75 USD).
- Private Transfer Price: 600–1,000 MYR (~$130–$220 USD).
Optional Scenic Stops Along the Way:
- Ipoh – A great place for local food and cave temples (~1-hour stop).
- Kuala Kangsar – Malaysia’s royal town with historic mosques (~30-minute stop).
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for groups and families.
Cons:
- More expensive than other options.
Booking Tip:
For better rates, book your rental car in advance using our online search form.
Final Tips for Traveling from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
- Best Option for Speed: Flight (~1 hour, from 70 MYR).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~35 MYR, 4+ hours).
- Best Option for Comfort & Scenic Views: Train (~4 hours, from 34 MYR).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Flights, trains, and buses sell out quickly during holidays.
