Bus
Direct, widely available, best balance of price and simplicity
Flight
Fastest option, frequent flights, but airport transfers needed
Ferry + train
Comfortable journey via Butterworth, requires short ferry transfer
Private taxi/car
Direct private car or taxi transfer, door-to-door service
Quick answer: There are 4 ways to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur: tourist bus, KTM train from Butterworth, direct flight, or private car. The bus is the cheapest and most popular option, the train offers a comfortable and scenic journey, while direct flights are the fastest. Private transfers are the most flexible choice for families, groups, or travelers with extra luggage.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: About 370 km by road.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus 5–8.5 hrs | Train 4–4.5 hrs | Flight 1 hr
- 💰 Prices: Bus $7–13 | Train $14–40 | Flight $30–120
- 🚍 Bus: Cheapest and most popular option.
- 🚆 Train: Comfortable and faster than the bus.
- ✈️ Flight: Fastest way to travel.
- 🚕 Private car: Best for groups, families, and extra luggage.
Last updated: March 2026
From Penang to Kuala Lumpur you can travel by bus, train, plane, or taxi.
Traveling from Penang to Kuala Lumpur covers about 370 km. You can travel by tourist bus, KTM train from Butterworth, direct flight, or private taxi. The bus is the cheapest and most popular option, taking 5–8.5 hours and costing about $7–13 per person. Most buses depart from Sungai Nibong or Penang Komtar and arrive at TBS or KL Sentral.
Direct flights are the fastest option, taking only about 1 hour. You can also travel by KTM train from Butterworth, which takes about 4–4.5 hours. From Kuala Lumpur you can continue to Malacca or visit Genting Highlands.
Private taxis take about 4–4.5 hours and are ideal for groups or families. If you are looking for the lowest price, choose the bus. From Penang you can also take a direct flight to Singapore.
| Transfer modes from Penang to Kuala Lumpur: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Bus | 5–8.5 hours | $7–13 per person |
| Train (KTM) | 4–4.5 hours | $14–40 per person |
| Plane (Direct Flight) | 1 hour | $30–120 per person |
| Private Taxi/Car | 5 hours | $170–340 per car |
How do I get from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
1. BUS from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Bus is the most affordable and widely used way from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and frequent departures
- ✔️ Duration: ~5–8.5 hours
- ✔️ Price: $7–13 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: good (modern coaches with air-conditioning and reclining seats)
- ✅ Popular operators: KKKL Express, Super Nice Express, Aerobus, Mara Liner and others
- 💡 Tip: Check departure and arrival stations carefully and book tickets online in advance.
A tourist bus is the cheapest and most popular way to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur. Companies such as Billion Stars, KKKL Express, Super Nice Express, Sri Maju, Aerobus, and others operate modern air-conditioned buses.
Buses depart from Penang Komtar, Sungai Nibong, Penang Sentral, and other terminals. Travel time is about 5–8.5 hours, and tickets cost $7–13 per person.
Book your tickets online in advance and arrive at the departure point at least 30–60 minutes early. The bus is the best budget option for traveling between Penang and Kuala Lumpur.
| Bus Company | Departs in Penang | Arrival in Kuala Lumpur |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Express | 00:15 | 09:11 |
| Jasmine Express | 11:40 | 20:36 |
| Jasmine Express | 14:00 | 22:56 |
| Jasmine Express | 23:59 | 08:55 |
| KKKL Express | 00:15 | 09:09 |
| KKKL Express | 07:30 | 16:24 |
| KKKL Express | 09:30 | 18:24 |
| KKKL Express | 12:30 | 21:24 |
| KKKL Express | 14:00 | 22:54 |
| KKKL Express | 15:30 | 00:24 |
| KKKL Express | 18:15 | 03:09 |
| KKKL Express | 23:30 | 08:24 |
| Billion Stars | 00:15 | 05:17 |
| Billion Stars | 01:00 | 06:02 |
| Billion Stars | 07:00 | 12:08 |
| Billion Stars | 08:00 | 13:08 |
| Billion Stars | 09:00 | 14:08 |
| Billion Stars | 10:00 | 15:08 |
| Billion Stars | 11:00 | 16:08 |
| Billion Stars | 12:00 | 17:08 |
| Billion Stars | 13:00 | 18:08 |
| Billion Stars | 14:00 | 19:08 |
| Super Nice Express | 07:30 | 12:32 |
| Super Nice Express | 08:45 | 13:47 |
| Super Nice Express | 09:50 | 16:09 |
| Super Nice Express | 22:45 | 03:47 |
2. FLIGHT from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Flight is the fastest and most convenient way from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to save time
- ✔️ Duration: ~1 hour (up to ~5 hours including airport transfers)
- ✔️ Price: $25–120 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (short flights with multiple airlines)
- ✅ Airlines: AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Batik Air and others
- 💡 Tip: Book early to catch low-cost fares and compare airports for better deals.
A direct flight is the fastest way to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur. Airlines such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Batik Air, and others operate frequent daily flights, with AirAsia usually offering the lowest fares.
Flights depart from Penang International Airport and take about 1 hour. Including airport transfers and check-in, the total travel time is around 4–5 hours.
Economy flights cost about $25–120 per person and can be booked online in advance. This is the best option if you want to save time.
3. TRAIN from Penang (Butterworth) to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Train via Butterworth is a comfortable and efficient way from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who prefer a smooth and scenic land journey
- ✔️ Duration: ~5–6 hours (including ferry transfer)
- ✔️ Price: $14–40 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: good to high (modern KTM trains with seating classes)
- ✅ Route: ferry from Penang to Butterworth + KTM train to KL Sentral
- 💡 Tip: Coordinate ferry and train times in advance and use e-tickets on your phone for convenience.
You can also travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur by KTM Berhad train from Butterworth. As there is no railway on Penang Island, you first need to take a ferry from Georgetown to Butterworth and then continue by train.
The train journey from Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur takes about 4–4.5 hours, while the total transfer, including the ferry, is about 5–6 hours. Trains arrive at KL Sentral. See the Malaysia Railway Map.
Train tickets cost about $14–40 per person and can be booked online as e-tickets. The train is a comfortable alternative to the bus, but requires a ferry transfer to Butterworth.
BOOK TRAIN TICKETS on Baolau ➜
| Train | Departs in Butterworth | Arrival in Kuala Lumpur |
|---|---|---|
| KTM Berhad Train | 07:50 | 12:10 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 13:05 | 16:40 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 05:15 | 09:20 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 16:05 | 20:10 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 06:30 | 10:35 |
| KTM Berhad Train | 18:45 | 22:50 |
4. TAXI / CAR from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
👉 Private car is the most comfortable and flexible way from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want door-to-door service and privacy
- ✔️ Duration: ~4–4.5 hours
- ✔️ Price: $160–380 per vehicle
- ✔️ Comfort: very high (private cars or minivans with driver)
- ✅ Providers: Daytrip, Asian Overland Services, THS Transportation and others
- 💡 Tip: Share the ride with others to lower the cost per person and customize your pickup location.
A private car with a driver is the most comfortable way to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur. Companies such as New Asian Travel, Daytrip, ZMT Enterprise, Khaimal Travel, and others offer private cars and minivans.
The journey takes about 4–4.5 hours. Private transfers cost about $160–380 per car, depending on the vehicle type. They are ideal for families, small groups, or travelers with extra luggage.
You can book your private transfer online in advance and choose your preferred departure and arrival locations. Although more expensive than buses or trains, it offers the greatest comfort and flexibility.
BOOK PRIVATE CAR with 12go.asia ➜
| Taxi Operator | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Daytrip | 03:48 | From $220.00 / Standard 3pax |
| Daytrip | 03:48 | From $370.00 / Minivan 7pax |
| Daytrip | 03:48 | From $370.00 / Minivan 4pax |
| ZMT Enterprise | 03:45 | From $235.00 / Standard 4pax |
| ZMT Enterprise | 03:45 | From $330.00 / Minivan 6pax |
| ZMT Enterprise | 03:45 | From $390.00 / Minivan 12pax |
| FQD Travel | 03:45 | From $179.00 / Standard 3pax |
| FQD Travel | 03:45 | From $280.00 / Van 7pax |
| FQD Travel | 03:45 | From $300.00 / Van 12pax |
| THS Transportation | — | From $170.00 / Economy 2pax |
| THS Transportation | — | From $200.00 / Minivan 4pax |
| THS Transportation | — | From $225.00 / Minivan 7pax |
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur
How to book tickets from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
How long does it take to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
Travel takes about 5–8.5 hours by bus, 4–4.5 hours by train, 1 hour by flight, or 4–4.5 hours by private car.
How much does it cost to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
Bus tickets cost $7–13, trains $14–40, flights $30–120, and private cars $160–380 per vehicle.
What is the distance from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
The distance is about 370 km by road and around 330 km by direct flight.
What is the best way to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
Direct flights are the fastest option, while the KTM train offers a comfortable journey and the bus is the cheapest.
What is the cheapest way to get from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
The tourist bus is the cheapest option, with tickets starting at about $7 per person.
Is there a train from Penang to Kuala Lumpur?
No. Travel by ferry to Butterworth first, then continue by KTM train. See this guide.
What is the nearest railway station to Penang?
Butterworth Railway Station is the nearest station and can be reached by ferry or taxi from Georgetown.
Where can you travel from Kuala Lumpur?
Popular routes include Malacca, Singapore, Kota Bharu, and Johor Bahru.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur?
Choose from budget hotels, hostels, or luxury hotels.
What are the main transport options in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers buses, KTM trains, domestic flights, ferries, and private transfers. Read Transportation in Malaysia.
🧭 Popular travel routes from Penang in Malaysia:
If you’re planning your next trip from Penang, here are other popular routes in Malaysia:
These are the most popular travel routes from Penang for visitors exploring Malaysia.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Penang to Kuala Lumpur
Traveling from Penang to Kuala Lumpur covers about 370 km. You can travel by tourist bus, KTM train from Butterworth, direct flight, or private car.
- Fly to Save Time: Direct flights take about 1 hour and are the fastest option.
- Take the Bus for the Lowest Price: Tourist buses are affordable, frequent, and comfortable.
- Use the Train for Comfort: KTM trains from Butterworth are fast, reliable, and air-conditioned.
- Plan the Ferry Transfer: Train travelers must first take a ferry from Georgetown to Butterworth.
- Travel Early: Leave early to avoid heavy traffic near Penang and Kuala Lumpur.
- Book in Advance: Buses, trains, and flights can sell out during weekends and holidays.
Tip: Bus tickets, train tickets, flights, and private transfers from Penang to Kuala Lumpur can be searched and booked online in advance.