There are 2 way(s) to get from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
The bus is the most popular and economical option for this route. Several companies offer regular daily departures from the main terminals. Trains are faster but availability is often limited on 12go.asia. Book online in advance for the best fares.
🛣️ The journey experience
The bus follows the west coast of Malaysia along the North-South Expressway, passing through landscapes of rice paddies, tropical forest and green hills in the north of the country. The journey takes 4h30 to 5h15 depending on traffic and stops. The ETS (Electric Train Service) is more comfortable and faster (3h45-4h15) with reclining seats and air conditioning — a pleasant experience for admiring the Malaysian countryside through large panoramic windows.
Frequently asked questions
The ETS train is the best option if you can get it: faster (3h45 vs 4h30-5h by bus), more comfortable (wide seats with tray table) and arrives directly at KL Sentral. The bus is more economical and has more availability, but journey time is more variable. On 12go.asia, compare the availability of both before deciding.
Take the Penang–Butterworth ferry from Penang Ferry Terminal (next to Fort Cornwallis, Georgetown). The crossing takes 10 minutes and is free for pedestrians in the Georgetown→Butterworth direction. Butterworth KTM station is 2 minutes' walk from the landing. Allow 30-40 minutes total from your accommodation in Georgetown.
Buses arrive at Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) — accessible by LRT to Bandar Tasik Selatan. ETS trains arrive at KL Sentral, KL's main transport hub, directly connected to the LRT, MRT, monorail and KLIA Ekspres. KL Sentral is a far more convenient arrival point.
Book on 12go.asia to compare available buses and trains on your date. For the ETS train, you can also book directly on ktmb.com.my. Recommendation: book the ETS train in advance (morning seats sell out quickly) and keep the bus as a backup option — buses have more availability.
✨ Why visit Kuala Lumpur?
- ✓ Petronas Towers (KLCC) — Southeast Asia's most iconic twin towers, with a bridge on the 41st floor (free entry)
- ✓ Batu Caves — spectacular Hindu temple 30 min from KL, accessible by commuter rail (KTM Komuter)
- ✓ Bukit Bintang — KL's shopping and street food district: Jalan Alor for evening hawkers
- ✓ Bangsar and TTDI — trendy neighbourhoods for brunch, cafés and fusion restaurants
- ✓ Perdana Botanical Garden and KL Lake — green oasis right in the centre, perfect for a break
☀️ When to visit Kuala Lumpur?
Equatorial climate
Year-round — Kuala Lumpur is an equatorial city with no pronounced dry season. July and August can be slightly rainier. Avoid Chinese New Year if you dislike crowds.
What to do in Kuala Lumpur?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
Related searches