Train (ETS)
Fast, reliable, comfortable, best overall balance
Bus
Cheapest option, frequent departures, slightly slower
Flight
Fastest overall, but higher cost and airport transfers
Complicated routes
Unnecessary transfers, longer travel time, not practical
Quick answer: The main transport options from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur are bus, direct flight, or train. Buses are the most common and budget‑friendly option, flights offer the fastest door‑to‑door time, and trains provide a comfortable overland alternative. You can book tickets to KL from Kedah easily online advance.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: approx. 400 km from Kedah (Alor Setar/Jitra) to Kuala Lumpur
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus ~5–12 hours | Train ~5 hours | Flight ~1–1.5 hours (plus transfers)
- 💰 Price range: Bus US$7‑15 per person | Train US$17-30 per person | Flight US$40‑80 per person
- 🚍 Bus: Widely available from Alor Setar or Jitra, good option for solo travellers.
- ✈️ Flight: Fastest option if you prioritise time and are okay with transfers to/from airports.
- 🚆 Train: Comfortable on‑land alternative; consider if you prefer scenic routes and wind‑down travel.
Last updated in April 2026
Traveling from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur by Bus, Train, Flight or Car
The distance from Kedah (Alor Setar) to Kuala Lumpur is about 440 km by land or 365 km by air. You can travel by bus, KTM Berhad ETS train, direct flight, or private car.
The bus is the cheapest option, taking 5–12 hours with fares from $11–15 per person. ETS trains take about 5 hours and tickets cost around $17–30 per person.
Direct flights from Alor Setar take only 1–1.5 hours and are the fastest way to reach Kuala Lumpur. Book tickets online in advance for the best prices.
From Kuala Lumpur you can also continue to Malacca, Kuantan, or Genting Highlands.
| Transfer modes from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Bus | 5–12 hours | $7–15 per person |
| Plane (Direct Flight) | 1–1.5 hours | $40–80 per person |
| KTM Berhad Train | 5 hours | $17–30 per person |
How do I get from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
1. BUS from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Bus travel is the most budget-friendly way from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Ideal for: solo travelers and those looking to save money
- ✔️ Travel time: ~5–12 hours (depending on route and stops)
- ✔️ Cost: $7–15 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: standard to good (air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats)
- ✅ Recommended choice: Reliable operators like Cosmic Express, Mara Liner or Super Nice Express
- 💡 Tip: Check departure and arrival stations carefully and book tickets online in advance for the best availability.
Traveling by bus from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur is the cheapest and most popular option. Modern buses operated by Cosmic Express, Mara Liner, Super Nice Express, Mayang Sari, Alisan Coach, and other companies run every day.
Buses depart from Alor Setar, Jitra, and nearby towns, with most services arriving at TBS Kuala Lumpur. Travel time is about 5–12 hours, depending on the route and operator.
BOOK BUS TICKETS to K.Lumpur ➜
Bus tickets cost about $7–15 per person and can be booked online in advance. Check departure and arrival stations carefully before your trip.
2. FLIGHT from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Flying is the quickest and most convenient way from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Best for: travelers short on time who prefer a fast journey
- ✔️ Duration: ~1–1.5 hours (up to ~5 hours total including airport transfer & waiting)
- ✔️ Price: $40–80 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (short flight with modern aircraft and services)
- ✅ Top airlines: Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Firefly or Malindo Air
- 💡 Tip: Book early due to limited schedules and check baggage limits for cheaper fares.
A direct flight is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur. Airlines serving this route include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Firefly, and Batik Air, with several daily departures.
Flights operate from Sultan Abdul Halim Airport near Alor Setar to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The flight takes only 1–1.5 hours, while the total travel time, including airport transfers and check-in, is about 4–5 hours.
Airfares usually range from $40–80 per person, depending on the airline and travel date. Booking your flight online in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holiday seasons.
✈️ Flight Schedule / Timetable – Kedah to Kuala Lumpur + Airlines:
| Airline | Departs in Kedah | Arrival in Kuala Lumpur |
|---|---|---|
| Malaysia Airlines | 08:20 | 09:30 |
| Malaysia Airlines | 14:35 | 15:45 |
| Malaysia Airlines | 20:55 | 22:10 |
| Air Asia | 08:30 | 09:40 |
| Air Asia | 18:05 | 19:05 |
| Firefly | 11:35 | 12:45 |
| Firefly | 14:40 | 15:50 |
| Firefly | 20:45 | 21:55 |
3. TRAIN from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Train travel offers a comfortable and balanced option from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Suitable for: travelers seeking comfort at a reasonable price
- ✔️ Duration: ~5 hours
- ✔️ Price: $17–30 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: good to high (various seat classes including business options)
- ✅ Best choice: KTM Berhad trains from Alor Setar or Anak Bukit to KL Sentral
- 💡 Tip: Use e-tickets on your phone and choose higher classes early for better availability.
Traveling by KTM Berhad ETS train is a comfortable and reliable way to get from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur. Trains offer Second Class, Premier, and Business seats, making them a popular alternative to the bus.
Trains depart from Alor Setar or Anak Bukit and arrive at KL Sentral. The journey takes about 5 hours, and tickets cost around $17–30 per person, depending on the seat class.
There are several trains every day, and tickets can be booked online as e-tickets without printing. Reserve your seat in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays.
BOOK TRAIN TICKET to K.Lumpur ➜
| Train | Departs in Kedah (Alor Setar) | Arrival in Kuala Lumpur |
|---|---|---|
| KTM Berhad Train | 07:59 | 12:45 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 10:24 | 15:10 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 11:44 | 16:30 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 14:26 | 18:40 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 16:35 | 21:34 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 17:39 | 22:25 |
4. TAXI / CAR from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Private car with driver is the most flexible and hassle-free way from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Ideal for: families, groups, or travelers wanting door-to-door service
- ✔️ Duration: ~5 hours
- ✔️ Price: $230–310 per vehicle
- ✔️ Comfort: very high (private cars or minivans with personalized service)
- ✅ Recommended provider: FQD Travel with various vehicle options
- 💡 Tip: Share the cost with others and set your own pickup time and location for maximum convenience.
A private taxi or car is the most comfortable way to travel from Kedah (Alor Setar) to Kuala Lumpur. FQD Travel operates modern cars and minivans with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
The journey takes about 5 hours, and prices range from $230–310 per vehicle, depending on the car type. Minivans can be a good choice for groups traveling together.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Kuala Lumpur ➜
Private transfers can be booked online in advance and offer flexible departure times and pick-up locations. This option is ideal for families, small groups, or travelers looking for maximum comfort.
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
How to book tickets from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
Book bus, train, flight, or taxi tickets at 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
How long does it take to travel from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
Buses take 5–12 hours, ETS trains about 5 hours, flights 1–1.5 hours, and private cars about 5 hours.
How much does it cost to travel from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
Bus tickets cost $7–15, trains $17–30, flights $40–80, and private cars $230–310 per vehicle.
What is the distance from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
The distance is about 440 km by road or rail and around 365 km by air.
What is the best way to travel from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
A direct flight is the fastest option, while the ETS train offers the best balance of speed and comfort.
What is the cheapest way to get to Kuala Lumpur?
The tourist bus is the cheapest option, with tickets starting at about $7 per person.
Is there a train from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur?
Yes. KTM Berhad ETS trains run daily from Alor Setar to KL Sentral, with fares from about $17.
What is worth visiting before Kuala Lumpur?
Don’t miss Penang Island, one of Malaysia’s top destinations, easily reached from Alor Setar.
Where can you travel from Kuala Lumpur?
Continue to Singapore, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, or Redang Island.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur?
Kuala Lumpur offers everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Book your hotel in Kuala Lumpur ➜.
Where can I learn more about Malaysia?
Read 15 Interesting Facts about Malaysia before your trip.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Kedah to Kuala Lumpur
Traveling from Kedah, in Malaysia, to Kuala Lumpur covers about 440 km. You can travel by tourist bus, KTM Berhad ETS train, direct flight, or private car. The bus is the cheapest option, while the flight is the fastest.
- Choose the ETS Train: A comfortable journey taking about 5 hours.
- Fly for Speed: Direct flights from Alor Setar reach Kuala Lumpur in only 1–1.5 hours.
- Travel by Bus: The cheapest option with frequent departures from Alor Setar and Jitra.
- Book Early: Reserve tickets in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays.
- Visit Penang: Consider stopping at Penang Island before continuing to Kuala Lumpur.
- Use Grab in Kuala Lumpur: Grab is the easiest way to reach your hotel or other destinations.
Tip: Bus tickets, train tickets, flights, and private transfers from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur can be searched and booked online in advance.