How to go → THAILAND to MALAYSIA? ☀️

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How to travel from Thailand to Malaysia? You can travel to Malaysia by plane, bus, car, ferry or train.

1. Travel by plane to Malaysia
2. Travel by train to Malaysia
3. Travel by bus/van to Malaysia
4. Travel by car to Malaysia
5. Travel by ferry to Malaysia
6. FAQ + Travel Tips + Info
7. Book Ticket to Malaysia

From Thailand to Malaysia you can travel by plane, bus / train, ferry or car.

Malaysia is a popular tourist destination in southeast Asia and there are several ways to get from Thailand to Malaysia, depending on your preferences and budget. If you are traveling by land, you can travel to southern Thailand, to Padang Besar border town and easily cross the border to Malaysia. But if you are in northern Thailand, you can travel by plane via Bangkok. There are some direct flights from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur. So, if you want to save your travel time, you should travel by plane and take a direct flight. If you will be traveling by land in Thailand, you can travel by speedboat from Koh Lipe to Langkawi, Langkawi belongs to Malaysia, it is very popular and nice tourist island. Read carefully how you can go to Malaysia and what are the most popular transfer options:

  1. By Plane: There are numerous flights daily from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. Other cities in Malaysia that have international airports include Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu. Airlines that fly from Thailand to Malaysia include AirAsia, Thai Airways, and Malaysia Airlines.
  2. By Train: There is a train that runs from Bangkok to Padang Besar, which is the border town on the Thai-Malaysian border. Once you arrive at Padang Besar, you can cross the border and take another train to destinations in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur or Penang.
  3. By Bus: Buses run regularly between Thailand and Malaysia. Many bus companies operate on this route, with most buses departing from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal and arriving at various cities in Malaysia. The journey time can range from 14 to 20 hours depending on the destination.
  4. By Car: You can also drive from Thailand to Malaysia. However, you will need to have the proper documentation, including an international driving license and the necessary visas and permits.
  5. By Ferry: There is a ferry service that runs between Satun, a southern province in Thailand, and Langkawi, an island in Malaysia. From Langkawi, you can take another ferry to other destinations in Malaysia.
Transfer Mode – Thailand to Malaysia: Travel Time Cost Range
Flight (Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur) 2 hours $50-200/pp
Train (Bangkok to Padang Besar) 16-18 hours $20-90/pp
Bus (Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur) 15-20 hours $30-50/pp
Car (Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur) 20-25 hours N/A
Ferry (Koh Lipe to Langkawi) 1-1.5 hour $20-50/pp

BOOK TICKETS with 12go.asia


🎫 How to book bus, train tickets + flights from Thailand to Malaysia?

Now it is very easy to book bus, train tickets or flights from Thailand to Malaysia online. You will save your travel time and also money. You can search and book tickets or various flights to Malaysia at 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜ online. These websites are the one of the best search engines for Southeast Asia. 12go.asia offers to book tickets or flights for various countries of Asia, eg.: Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar. Various well-known transport companies and airlines. Read all the information before you book and buy your tickets online.


1. Travel by plane from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport by plane is one of the most popular and convenient options for getting from Thailand to Malaysia. Here are some more details about this way of transport, you will save your travel time:

Airlines: There are several airlines that operate flights from Thailand to Malaysia, including AirAsia, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and more. These airlines offer daily flights from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur and other cities in Malaysia.

Airports: The main international airport in Bangkok is Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is located about 30 kilometers east of the city center. In Kuala Lumpur, the main airport is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), which is located about 50 kilometers south of the city center. Other airports in Malaysia with international connections include Penang International Airport, Johor Bahru Senai International Airport, and Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Flight Time: The flight time from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is around 2 hours, while the flight time from other cities in Thailand may vary depending on the location and airline. Keep in mind that the actual flight time may be longer or shorter depending on factors such as weather conditions, the airline, and the specific route taken.

Cost: The cost of a flight from Thailand to Malaysia varies depending on the airline, the time of year, and how far in advance you book your ticket. Generally, flights can range from around $50 to $200 or more, with budget airlines like AirAsia offering some of the cheapest fares.

Documents: When traveling by plane from Thailand to Malaysia, you will need a valid passport and any necessary visas or travel documents. It’s a good idea to check the visa requirements for Malaysia well in advance of your trip to ensure that you have all the necessary documents.

BOOK FLIGHTS with 12go.asia

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Travel by plane is one of the most popular and fastest options for transfer from Thailand to Malaysia.


2. Travel by train from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport by train from Thailand to Malaysia via Padang Besar border town is the most cheapest way of transfer. But this way of transfer takes a lot of travel time. You can go there by train via Surat Thani.

Train service: The train service that runs between Thailand and Malaysia is operated by the State Railway of Thailand and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), the national railway company of Malaysia. The train departs from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok and travels to the border town of Padang Besar in northern Malaysia. From there, you can connect to other destinations in Malaysia by train.

Train types: There are different types of trains that run on this route, including overnight sleeper trains and express trains. Sleeper trains have private cabins with beds for passengers to sleep in, while express trains are faster and have seats but no sleeping accommodations. The train ride from Bangkok to Padang Besar takes around 16-18 hours on average.

Cost: The cost of a train ticket from Bangkok to Padang Besar varies depending on the type of train and the class of the ticket. A second-class sleeper ticket can cost around $30-50, while a first-class sleeper ticket can cost around $60-90. An express train ticket can cost around $15-30.

Border crossing: When you reach Padang Besar, you will need to go through customs and immigration to cross the border into Malaysia. The process can take some time, so be sure to have all your necessary documents, such as your passport and any required visas, ready.

Comfort and amenities: Trains in Thailand and Malaysia vary in terms of comfort and amenities. Some trains have air-conditioning, food and drink services, and even Wi-Fi, while others may be more basic. If you are planning to take an overnight train, be sure to bring any necessary items, such as a pillow or blanket, to make your journey more comfortable.

BOOK TRAIN TICKETS with 12go.asia

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Travel by train is also a popular and cheapest option of transfer from Thailand to Malaysia.


3. Travel by bus / van from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport by bus or private minivan / minibus from Thailand to Malaysia is also another way how you can travel between these countries. It is also a cheap way of transfer, but it is not so comfortable like transfer by train.

Bus service: There are several bus companies that offer services from Thailand to Malaysia, with buses departing from cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Hat Yai. Popular bus companies include Nakhon Si Racha, Hat Yai, and Phuket Travel. The bus ride from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur takes around 15-20 hours, depending on the route and any border crossing delays.

Cost: The cost of a bus ticket from Thailand to Malaysia varies depending on the company and the class of the ticket. A one-way ticket can cost around $25-50, depending on the route and amenities offered.

Border crossing: When traveling by bus, you will need to go through customs and immigration to cross the border into Malaysia. The process can take some time, so be sure to have all your necessary documents, such as your passport and any required visas, ready.

Amenities: Buses in Thailand and Malaysia vary in terms of comfort and amenities. Some buses have air-conditioning, reclining seats, and even entertainment systems, while others may be more basic. If you are planning to take an overnight bus, be sure to bring any necessary items, such as a pillow or blanket, to make your journey more comfortable.

Safety: While bus travel can be a convenient and affordable way to get from Thailand to Malaysia, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Some buses may be older or less well-maintained, so it’s a good idea to check the safety record of the bus company before you book your ticket. Additionally, it’s important to wear your seatbelt and follow any safety instructions provided by the driver or bus company.

BOOK BUS TICKETS with 12go.asia

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Travel by tourist bus or van is another cheap way of transfer from Thailand to Malaysia.


4. Travel by car / motorbike from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport by private car or motorcycle from Thailand to Malaysia is a good option only for the most experienced drivers. Teoretically you can rent a car with a driver in Thailand or you can rent your private car or motorbike.

Driving route: The most popular driving route from Thailand to Malaysia is to cross the border at the Sadao checkpoint in southern Thailand and travel south along the west coast of Malaysia, passing through cities such as Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Malacca. The total distance from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is around 1,500 kilometers and takes approximately 20-25 hours of driving time.

Border crossing: When traveling by car or motorcycle, you will need to go through customs and immigration to cross the border into Malaysia. The process can take some time, so be sure to have all your necessary documents, such as your passport and any required visas, ready. You will also need to purchase insurance at the border, which can cost around $10-20 depending on the length of your stay.

Vehicle rental: If you do not have your own car or motorcycle, you can rent one in Thailand and drive it into Malaysia. Popular car rental companies in Thailand include Avis, Budget, and Hertz, while motorcycle rental companies include Turtla and Big Bike Rental Bangkok. Be sure to check with the rental company about any restrictions or additional fees for crossing the border into Malaysia.

Road conditions: The roads in Thailand and Malaysia vary in terms of quality, with some highways being well-maintained and others more narrow and winding. It’s important to exercise caution and be aware of local traffic laws and driving customs. Additionally, it’s important to note that in Malaysia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, so drivers may need to adjust to driving on the opposite side.

Fuel and toll costs: When driving in Thailand and Malaysia, you will need to pay for fuel and any tolls on the highways. Fuel costs vary depending on the current price of petrol or diesel, while toll costs can vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle. Be sure to factor in these additional costs when planning your trip.

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Travel by private car or motorbike is another way of transport from Thailand to Malaysia.


5. Travel by ferry / boat from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport by ferry / speedboat from Thailand to Malaysia should be a good option if you want to visit some islands in southern Thailand (Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Mook…) and northern Malaysia (Langkawi). You can travel by boat from Koh Lipe in Thailand to Langkawi in Malaysia. Koh Lipe is accessible by private transfer (van + ferry) from Hat Yai.

Ferry service: There are several ferry companies that offer services from Thailand to Malaysia, with ferries departing from cities such as Satun and Langkawi. Popular ferry companies include Langkawi Ferry, Tigerline, and Bundhaya Speed Boat. The ferry ride from Langkawi to Satun takes around 1 hour, while the ferry ride from Satun to Penang takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the route and any border crossing delays. The most popular is to travel by ferry from Koh Lipe to Langkawi, transfer by ferry takes about 1-1.5 hour.

Cost: The cost of a ferry ticket from Thailand to Malaysia varies depending on the company and the class of the ticket. A one-way ticket can cost around $20-50, depending on the route and amenities offered.

Border crossing: When traveling by ferry, you will need to go through customs and immigration to cross the border into Malaysia. The process can take some time, so be sure to have all your necessary documents, such as your passport and any required visas, ready.

Amenities: Ferries in Thailand and Malaysia vary in terms of comfort and amenities. Some ferries have air-conditioning, comfortable seating, and even food and beverage service, while others may be more basic. If you are prone to seasickness, you may want to bring some medication or other remedies to make your journey more comfortable.

Safety: While ferry travel can be a convenient and scenic way to get from Thailand to Malaysia, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Be sure to follow any safety instructions provided by the ferry company and crew, and wear a life jacket if required. Additionally, be aware of any weather conditions or other factors that may affect the safety of the journey.

BOOK FERRY TICKETS with 12go.asia

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Travel by ferry / boat is also another way of getting from Thailand to Malaysia. Ferry of Satun Pakbara from Koh Lipe to Langkawi.


FAQ + Tips – Travel from Thailand to Malaysia:

1. How to book bus + train tickets or flights from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • You can book tickets or flights from Thailand to Malaysia online on Baolau or 12go.asia.

2. What is the travel time from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • Travel by plane from Thailand (Bangkok) to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) takes about 2 hours.
    • Travel by train by Thai Railways from Thailand (Bangkok) to Padang Besar takes about 16-18 hours.
    • Travel by bus from Thailand (Bangkok) to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) takes about 15-20 hours.
    • Travel by car from Thailand (Bangkok) to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) takes about 20-25 hours.
    • Travel by ferry from Thailand (Koh Lipe) to Malaysia (Langkawi) takes about 1-1.5 hour.

3. What is the price of transfer from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • Transfer by plane from Thailand (Bangkok) to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) costs about $50-200/pp.
    • Transfer by train by Thai Railways from Thailand (Bangkok) to Padang Besar costs about $20-90/pp.
    • Transfer by bus from Thailand (Bangkok) to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) costs about $30-50/pp.
    • Transfer by ferry from Thailand (Koh Lipe) to Malaysia (Langkawi) costs about $20-50/pp.

4. What is the travel distance from Bangkok to Malaysia?

    • Travel distance from Bangkok (Thailand) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) is about 1200 km by plane and about 1500 km by road.

5. What is the best and fastest way of transport from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • The best and fastest way how to get to Malaysia from Thailand is to travel by plane. There are direct flights between big cities and capital cities. E.g. you can take a direct flight from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.

6. What is the cheapest option of transport from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • The most cheapest way how to travel to Malaysia from Thailand is to travel by train via Padang Besar in southern Thailand.

7. Is it possible to travel by direct train from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • No, there is no direct train from Thailand to Malaysia, but you can travel by train of Thai Railways from Bangkok to Padang Besar. From there, you can connect to other destinations in Malaysia by KTM train.

8. Is it possible to travel by ferry / boat from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • Yes, you can go to Malaysia from Thailand by ferry or boat. One of the most popular ferry routes is from Koh Lipe to Langkawi. Travel time between these islands is only about 1-1.5 hour.

9. Are there direct flights from Thailand to Malaysia?

    • Yes, there are direct flights from Thailand to Malaysia. Many airlines operate direct flights between Thailand and Malaysia, including Thai Airways, AirAsia, Malindo Air, and Malaysia Airlines. Some of the popular routes include Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur, Phuket to Kuala Lumpur, and Chiang Mai to Kuala Lumpur.

10. What are the most important international airports in Malaysia?

    • There are several important international airports in Malaysia, including: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) – This is the largest and busiest airport in Malaysia. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Penang International Airport (PEN), Langkawi International Airport (LGK), Kuching International Airport (KCH).

11. Where to go and travel from Padang Besar border town?

    • From Padang Besar you can travel by train to major destinations in Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth, and Penang. The train station is located in the town center, and you can buy tickets at the station or online in advance. There are also some bus companies that operate services from Padang Besar to various destinations in Malaysia. You can take a bus from the Padang Besar bus terminal, located next to the train station, to cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh.

12. How to travel and explore Malaysia?

    • There are various ways how you can explore and travel in Malaysia. The most popular option for tourist are buses (the most cheapest way of transfer), KTM trains and domestic flights. Various islands of Malaysia are accessible by ferry / speedboat. Read this article: Transportation in Malaysia.

13. What is the weather in Malaysia and what to expect?

    • The weather in Malaysia varies throughout the year. Generally, Malaysia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity. The country has two monsoon seasons—the Southwest Monsoon (May to September) and the Northeast Monsoon (November to March). During the Southwest Monsoon, the western coastal areas, including Kuala Lumpur, may experience heavy rainfall. The Northeast Monsoon brings rain to the eastern coastal areas. However, the interior regions and certain islands can be visited year-round.

14. What is the currency of Malaysia?

    • The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the official currency of Malaysia, symbolized by RM. It is issued and regulated by the central bank, Bank Negara Malaysia. The ringgit is commonly abbreviated as MYR and is used for everyday transactions across the country. Banknotes and coins in various denominations make up the currency, facilitating both cash and electronic transactions. The exchange rate of the Malaysian Ringgit can be influenced by economic factors, global market conditions, and monetary policies set by the central bank.

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5 Ways of Transfer from Thailand to Malaysia:

Transport Mode Thailand to Malaysia
Plane Airlines: AirAsia, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and more.
Airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Penang International Airport, Johor Bahru Senai International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Flight Time: Around 2 hours from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.
Cost: $50 to $200 or more.
Train Train Service: State Railway of Thailand and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB).
Train Types: Overnight sleeper trains and express trains.
Train ride: Around 16-18 hours from Bangkok to Padang Besar.
Cost: Second-class sleeper ticket $30-50, first-class sleeper ticket $60-90, express train ticket $15-30.
Bus / Van Bus Service: Nakhon Si Racha, Hat Yai, Phuket Travel, and more.
Bus ride: Around 15-20 hours from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.
Cost: $25-50.
Car / Motorbike Driving Route: Sadao checkpoint in southern Thailand, west coast of Malaysia (Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca).
Distance: Around 1,500 kilometers, 20-25 hours driving time.
Border Crossing: Customs and immigration required.
Vehicle Rental: Avis, Budget, Hertz (car), Turtla, Big Bike Rental Bangkok (motorcycle).
Insurance cost: $10-20.
Ferry / Boat Ferry Service: Langkawi Ferry, Tigerline, Bundhaya Speed Boat, and more.
Ferry ride: Around 1 hour from Langkawi to Satun, 2-3 hours from Satun to Penang. Ferry from Koh Lipe to Langkawi takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Cost: $20-50.

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🎫 Book your tickets or flights from Thailand to Malaysia + Schedule:

(you can change your departure, arrival, eg. Bangkok to Padang Besar, Penang to Kuala Lumpur…)

Chumphon to Surat ThaniHua Hin to ChumphonHua Hin to Surat ThaniKoh Lanta to Koh PhanganKoh Lanta to Surat ThaniBangkok to Railay

Cambodia to Vietnam ➔

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