Kuala Lumpur and Penang are two of Malaysia’s most vibrant destinations, yet they offer completely different vibes. KL is a bustling metropolis of skyscrapers and shopping malls, while Penang—specifically George Town—is a laid-back island paradise famous for heritage shophouses, street art, and arguably the best street food in Asia.
If you are planning to travel between these two gems, you might be overwhelmed by the transport options. Should you fly? Take the train? Drive?
For many savvy travellers, the bus remains the champion of this route. It is affordable, surprisingly comfortable, and straightforward once you know the ropes. Whether you are a backpacker watching your budget or a luxury traveller seeking a scenic route, this guide breaks down exactly how to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang by bus without the stress.
Why Choose the Bus?
Cost-Effectiveness: Travelling by bus is significantly cheaper than flying, especially when you factor in luggage fees and airport transfers. A one-way ticket usually costs around RM 39 (approx. £7.50).
- Buses, however, can drop you off closer to the action, saving you time and expensive taxi fares on arrival.
- Comfort: Modern Malaysian express buses are often dubbed “VIP” coaches. We are talking about massive reclining seats, ample legroom, and air-conditioning that works a little too well (bring a jumper!).
- The Scenery: There is something lovely about watching the lush Malaysian countryside roll by—palm oil plantations, limestone karsts, and small villages offer a glimpse of the country you won’t see from 30,000 feet.
Departure Points in Kuala Lumpur
Unlike some European cities with a single central station, KL has a few spots where buses depart. Knowing the difference can save you a mad dash across town.
Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS)
This is the main transport hub for long-distance buses in Kuala Lumpur. It looks more like an airport than a bus station, complete with digital departure boards, clean waiting areas, and plenty of shops.
You can reach it easily using the KLIA Transit, LRT (Sri Petaling Line), or the KTM Komuter train. It is the most reliable departure point with the highest frequency of buses.
KTM Old Railway Station
While TBS is the modern hub, some operators—particularly the luxury “Nice” coaches—may depart from the historic KTM Old Railway Station near the National Mosque.
How to get there: You can take the KTM Komuter to the Kuala Lumpur station (not KL Sentral). However, be warned: finding the specific bus stop here can be tricky. If you are unsure, TBS is generally the safer bet for first-timers to avoid confusion.
Bus Companies and Ticket Booking
There is no shortage of operators running the KL to Penang route. Some popular and reliable names include:
- Plusliner: A solid, standard choice known for reliability.
- Aerobus: Often linked with airport transfers but runs great city-to-city routes too.
- Jasmin Express: Another frequent operator on this route.
- Nice: If you want a bit of luxury (think entertainment systems and meals), look for their executive coaches.
How to Book
You can simply turn up at TBS and buy a ticket from the centralised counters. However, during public holidays or weekends, buses sell out fast.
It is smarter to book online. Platforms like Easybook allow you to compare times, prices, and seat configurations. As mentioned, expect to pay roughly RM 35–45 (£6.50–£8.50) for a standard ticket.
The Bus Journey
Once you have boarded, settle in for a journey of approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on Kuala Lumpur’s notorious traffic.
The route takes you along the AH2 (North-South Expressway), a well-maintained highway that forms the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia’s transport network. The ride is generally smooth, but do keep an eye on your belongings if the bus makes stops.
Drivers usually take a brief 15–20 minute pause at a rest area along the highway for a break. These stops are great for stretching your legs, using the toilet, or grabbing a snack like fresh fruit or a curry puff. Note that most buses do not have onboard toilets, so use the facilities at the station before you board and take advantage of the rest stop.
Arrival in Penang
This is the part that confuses most travellers. “Penang” refers to both the state (which includes a strip of the mainland) and the island itself. You need to know where you want to get off.
Option 1: Butterworth (Penang Sentral)
However, it is often the best choice for tourists.
- Why choose it: It connects directly to the ferry terminal.
- Getting to George Town: From the bus terminal, follow the signs to the ferry. The boat ride takes about 10–15 minutes, costs practically pennies, and drops you right at the edge of the UNESCO heritage zone in George Town. It is a magical way to arrive.
Option 2: Terminal Bus Sungai Nibong
This terminal is situated on Penang Island, approximately 20 minutes south of the heart of George Town.
- Why choose it: If you are staying in the southern part of the island or near the Bayan Lepas area.
- Getting to George Town: You will likely need to take a Grab car (RM 15–25) or a local Rapid Penang bus (Line 401 or 102) to reach the city centre. It saves you the ferry transfer but adds road travel time on the island.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
- Book in Advance: Especially if you are travelling on a Friday evening or Sunday afternoon.
- Bring a Jumper: Malaysian buses are famous for their freezing air-conditioning. You might be sweating outside, but you will be shivering inside without an extra layer.
- Snacks and Water: While the rest stop is decent, having your own water and biscuits is wise in case of traffic delays.
- Travel Pillow: With the seats reclining quite far back, a neck pillow can guarantee you a solid nap.
- Download Grab: Ensure you have the Grab app installed on your phone before you arrive; it is the easiest way to get from the bus terminal to your hotel.
Other Ways to Travel
If the bus route doesn’t appeal to you, there are a couple of other options worth considering:
Train (ETS): Malaysia’s ETS train is a smooth and fairly quick choice, reaching Butterworth in around four hours. However, prices are typically higher than bus fares and seats often sell out well in advance.
Flights: Flying takes roughly one hour in the air, but when you include the trip to KLIA, check-in, and security, the total time isn’t much shorter. It is also the priciest option.
Get Ready for Penang
For many travellers, hopping on the bus to Penang is an experience in itself—budget-friendly, comfortable, and surprisingly convenient. Whether you roll into Butterworth for the scenic ferry crossing or arrive directly at Sungai Nibong, Penang’s food and culture are just moments away.
So grab your ticket, bring an extra layer for the air-conditioning, and enjoy the journey.
