kuala lumpur to bangkok road trip

40 Best Stops Between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

How long is the drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok?

The direct drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok is 915 mi (1,473 km) , and should have a drive time of 16 hrs 31 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Pattaya , Krabi Town , George Town , Hua Hin , Ao Nang , Khao Lak , Ipoh , Hat Yai , Takua Pa , and Cha-am , as well as top places to visit like Bharat Tea Plantations Sdn. Bhd. and Ipoh World at Han Chin Pet Soo, or the ever-popular Kampung Kuantan Fireflies Park (Selangor).

Top cities between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok

George town.

Krabi City Seaview

Hua Hin District

Pattaya city, best stops along kuala lumpur to bangkok drive, kampung kuantan fireflies park (selangor).

Bharat Tea Plantations Sdn. Bhd.

Ipoh world at han chin pet soo, sunway lost world hotel, taiping lake gardens, kek lok si temple, penang hill, pinang peranakan mansion, kantiang bay, phi phi viewpoint 3, bamboo island, emerald pool, koh khai nok, phra nang cave beach, railay beach, ao nang beach, wat tham suea, khao sok national park, grandfather and grandmother rocks (hin ta hin yai), chaweng beach, fisherman's village night market, big buddha temple (wat phra yai), thong nai pan beach, bottle beach 1 resort, nang yuan island, siri park and zoo by sriracha zoo, khao kheow open zoo, rom hub station, damnoen saduak floating market, top searches in bangkok, other popular road trips from kuala lumpur, explore nearby places.

• Bang Sao Thong
• Phra Samut Chedi
• Racha Thewa
• Phra Pradaeng
• Samut Prakan
• Bang Phli Yai
• Pathum Thani
• Bang Bua Thong
• Bang Chalong
• Phutthamonthon
• Krathum Baen
• Lat Lum Kaeo
• Nakhon Chai Si
• Samut Sakhon
• Khlong Luang
• Nakhon Pathom

All related maps of Bangkok

• Map of Bangkok
• Map of Bang Kruai
• Map of Bang Sao Thong
• Map of Phra Samut Chedi
• Map of Racha Thewa
• Map of Phra Pradaeng
• Map of Samut Prakan
• Map of Nonthaburi
• Map of Bang Yai
• Map of Pak Kret
• Map of Bang Phli Yai
• Map of Pathum Thani
• Map of Bang Bua Thong
• Map of Bang Chalong
• Map of Phutthamonthon
• Map of Thanyaburi
• Map of Nong Prue
• Map of Krathum Baen
• Map of Rangsit
• Map of Lat Lum Kaeo
• Map of Nakhon Chai Si
• Map of Sai Noi
• Map of Sam Phran
• Map of Sam Khok
• Map of Bang Bo
• Map of Lam Luk Ka
• Map of Samut Sakhon
• Map of Khlong Luang
• Map of Ban Phaeo
• Map of Bang Sai
• Map of Nakhon Pathom

Bangkok throughout the year

• Bangkok in January
• Bangkok in February
• Bangkok in March
• Bangkok in April
• Bangkok in May
• Bangkok in June
• Bangkok in July
• Bangkok in August
• Bangkok in September
• Bangkok in October
• Bangkok in November
• Bangkok in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Bangkok?

Get inspired for your trip to Bangkok with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Bangkok Itinerary
• 2-Day Bangkok Itinerary
• 3-Day Bangkok Itinerary
• 4-Day Bangkok Itinerary
• 5-Day Bangkok Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from kuala lumpur to bangkok.

Yes! You can drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.

How far is Bangkok from Kuala Lumpur by car?

The drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok is 915 miles (1,473 km).

How long does it take to drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok?

Driving from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok should take you 16 hrs 31 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok?

Gas from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok would cost around $80 to $187 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok?

You could check out Bharat Tea Plantations Sdn. Bhd. and Ipoh World at Han Chin Pet Soo, or the always popular Kampung Kuantan Fireflies Park (Selangor)!

What are the best cities to visit between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok?

People love visiting Pattaya, Krabi Town, and George Town, among others.

What's the weather like in Kuala Lumpur?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in January
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in February
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in March
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in April
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in May
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in June
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in July
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in August
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in September
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in October
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in November
• Weather in Kuala Lumpur in December

What are some other road trips from Kuala Lumpur?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Kuala Lumpur.

• Kuala Lumpur to Singapore drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Melaka drive
• Kuala Lumpur to George Town drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Siem Reap drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Kathu drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Krabi Town drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Pattaya drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Phnom Penh drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Mai drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Hua Hin drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Hoi An drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Luang Prabang drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Patong drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Hue drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Nha Trang drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Ayutthaya drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Kanchanaburi drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Rai drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Khao Lak drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Ao Nang drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Vientiane drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Bagan drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Da Lat drive
• Kuala Lumpur to Halong Bay drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Share this page

Trip to Bangkok

Find the perfect accommodation!

Great location and deals for every budget.

How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

Compare travel options and prices to find best route from kuala lumpur to bangkok.

Show bus routes

Show train routes

Show flights

What is the cheapest way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok?

What is the fastest way to travel from kuala lumpur to bangkok, how far is it from kuala lumpur to bangkok, how do i travel from kuala lumpur to bangkok without a car, how long does it take to get from kuala lumpur to bangkok, train, bus or fly from kuala lumpur to bangkok, where can i stay near bangkok, can i drive from kuala lumpur to bangkok, is there a direct bus between kuala lumpur and bangkok, where do i catch the kuala lumpur to bangkok bus from, where does the kuala lumpur to bangkok bus arrive, which airlines fly between kuala lumpur and bangkok, what is the fastest way to get from kuala lumpur to bangkok by plane, how long is the flight from kuala lumpur to bangkok, what stations do trains from kuala lumpur to bangkok arrive at, is there a direct train between kuala lumpur and bangkok, where to catch the kuala lumpur to bangkok train, how much does a flight from kuala lumpur to bangkok cost, how much does a train from kuala lumpur to bangkok cost, how much does a bus from kuala lumpur to bangkok cost, how much does it cost to drive from kuala lumpur to bangkok.

Trips from Kuala Lumpur

• Kuala Lumpur to Singapore
• Kuala Lumpur to Malacca
• Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
• Kuala Lumpur to PENANG
• Kuala Lumpur to Tioman island
• Kuala Lumpur to Beijing
• Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh
• Kuala Lumpur to Phuket
• Kuala Lumpur to George Town
• Kuala Lumpur to London
• Kuala Lumpur to Manchester
• Kuala Lumpur to Perth
• Kuala Lumpur to Sydney
• Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne
• Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo
• Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu
• Kuala Lumpur to Taipei
• Kuala Lumpur to Adelaide

Trips to Bangkok

• Hong Kong to Bangkok
• Sukhothai to Bangkok
• Hanoi to Bangkok
• Singapore to Bangkok
• Da Nang to Bangkok
• Phuket to Bangkok
• Paris to Bangkok
• Phnom Penh to Bangkok
• Yangon to Bangkok
• Pattaya to Bangkok
• Siem Reap to Bangkok
• Chiang Mai to Bangkok
• Krabi to Bangkok
• Ko Pha Ngan to Bangkok
• Koh Samui to Bangkok
• Amsterdam to Bangkok
• Koh Tao to Bangkok
• Dubai to Bangkok
• Bali to Bangkok
• Surat Thani to Bangkok
• Istanbul to Bangkok
• London to Bangkok
• Kanchanaburi to Bangkok
• Doha to Bangkok
• Hat Yai to Bangkok
• Khao Lak to Bangkok
• Athens to Bangkok
• Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok
• Chennai to Bangkok
• Delhi (National Capital Territory of India) to Bangkok
• Dublin to Bangkok
• Edinburgh to Bangkok
• Birmingham to Bangkok
• Melbourne to Bangkok
• Sydney to Bangkok
• Aberdeen to Bangkok
• Bristol to Bangkok
• Glasgow to Bangkok
• Newcastle upon Tyne to Bangkok
• Vienna to Bangkok

Popular routes

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi
• Burnley to Blackburn (Lancashire)
• Luton (Bedfordshire) to Split
• Leeds (West Yorkshire) to Belfast
• Manchester to Innsbruck
• Milton Keynes to Bristol

• The Star ePaper
• Subscriptions
• Manage Profile
• Change Password
• Manage Logins
• Manage Subscription
• Transaction History
• Manage Billing Info
• Manage For You
• Manage Bookmarks
• Package & Pricing

Malaysians go on epic 17-day road trip from KL to parts of Thailand

• Asia & Oceania

Tuesday, 26 Sep 2023

Related News

S'gor govt has no problem disclosing details of Asia Mobiliti's appointment for DRT project, says MB

No contract awarded to asia mobiliti technologies for drt project, says fahmi, in asia, pentagon chief austin seeks to reassure allies and cool china tensions.

At the Khao Matsee View Point in Chumpon. — Photos: JAYANTH SHERWIN

Earlier in June, my family and I successfully completed a road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Thailand, and then back again. The trip took us – myself, Vinitha and Lydia – 17 days to complete, journeying across south and central Thailand, as well as the southern gulf of the Andaman sea, covering 4,599.9km.

The places we visited in Thailand were Hat Yai, Sichon, Surathani, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Kaeng Krachan, Phetchaburi, Chumpon, Kra Isthmus border, Phang Nga, Phuket and Phi Don. We had the idea to go on a road trip even before the pandemic, but of course, like everyone else around the world, we had to put it on hold for a few years.

Once the borders reopened, we started planning again. We chose to go to Thailand as we thought that would be the best destination for the three of us. This was our first time going on such a long road trip, so we didn’t want to venture too far from home.

Since all three of us were beach lovers, we were set on driving along the coast of Thailand. We also knew we only had 17 days to spare for the trip, so we made sure to research all the pit stops that we would be making on our journey so as not to waste time. We were adamant on not driving at night either, unless really necessary, for safety reasons.

We also set our driving distance to no more than 400km a day.

Above all, we promised ourselves not to be upset if we couldn’t go to some of the pit stops, or visit certain attractions because getting to the day’s final destination would always be our top priority.

We started our trip from KL at 5.30am, as we had to arrive at the Malaysia-Thailand border up north in time to collect our insurance papers for the journey. We had arranged for an agent to help with the paper work in advance, so that we only needed to pick up the documents. By the time we got to the border, it was already noon.

At the Malaysian immigration, the officer took some time to check our documents, and we explained why we were going to be in Thailand for 17 days. He smiled, and let us through. At the Thai immigration – Sadao Customs – things also went smoothly and we were warmly welcomed.

We drove to a restaurant for our first meal in Hat Yai; we were so happy to be in Thailand. We ended our first day visiting the Stainless Steel Temple and the clock tower for a good view of the city.

Exciting times

At the pier, we boarded the ferry with our car, and sailed to Koh Samui. This was a fun experience for us. When we got to the island it was already late in the afternoon, so we took it easy and went for a nice stroll at the Fisherman’s Village, where we bought lots of food and interacted with the locals.

We stayed on the island for two days, visiting attractions like the Lamai View Point, Big Buddha and Muko Ang Thong National Marine Park, where we got to see an amazing view of the surrounding islands from the top of a hill. This was really worth the tiring trek it took us to get there.

We also joined a Thai cooking class, which included a visit to the local market. The chef showed us how to prepare dishes like pad kra pao, tom yam and pad thai. By now we had also learnt a few Thai words, in our effort to communicate with the locals better.

After Koh Samui, we travelled back to the mainland and drove all the way to Hua Hin, a beautiful seaside town. On our way, we met some lovely people and chatted with them.

The next day, we continued our journey to central Thailand to get to Pattaya, where we spent the next three nights. We visited the Sanctuary of Truth, the Tiger Park and night markets, and even went on a para-motoring experience. We had been eating lots of pad kra pao since arriving in Thailand and we could tell that there were differences in the way they made it, but we loved all of them.

On the ninth day we drove to Ayutthaya for some historical exploration, visiting temples like Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Phra Mahathat. After that, we went to Bangkok and visited even more famous temples like Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan (also known as the Golden Buddha), Wat Po (Reclining Buddha temple) and Wat Arun. Of course, we also did some shopping in Bangkok.

On Day 11, we drove to Petchaburi and checked out a coconut farm, a shrimp farm and some villages, before arriving at Kaen Krachan to check into a resort, where we stayed in tents. Locals suggested that we go to a “UFO” restaurant for dinner – it was actually an American-style diner with good food and music.

The next day we went to Chumpon and the drive there was lovely as we passed through the countryside. Along the way we saw a wood-carving shop so we stopped to buy a few souvenirs.

At Chumpon, we enjoyed great local coffee at the Khao Matsee View Point. The people in this town were very friendly and helpful. This place is definitely worth a visit.

After Chumpon, we made our way to Phuket. We passed by the Kra Isthmus marker, which is the Thailand-Myanmar border, and it is just by a river. We could see Myanmar across this river.

Before reaching Phuket, we went bamboo rafting at Phang-Nga, an amazing experience for us. We also went to Phi Phi Don, where we hired a long-tail boat for ourselves. The boat captain was very accommodating, and he assured us that we would enjoy our time snorkelling and swimming, as well as exploring the beaches and caves there.

We went to Phuket Old Town the day after to feast on some delicious food and check out the malls. This was followed by a visit to Cape Phrom Thep, Ya Nui Beach, Windmill View Point and Karon beach. The weather was really warm so we ate lots of mango ice cream to cool down.

As we drove to the Thailand-Malaysia border on our final day, the Thai immigration officer asked us what we had been doing for the past 17 days. As we told her our stories, she started smiling and we could see that she, too, was happy that we enjoyed our experience.

The views expressed are entirely the writer’s own.

Related stories:

Tags / Keywords: Road Trip , Thailand , Koh Samui , Island , Hua Hin , phuket , bangkok , Readers Share

Found a mistake in this article?

Report it to us.

Thank you for your report!

Elevating the travel experience

Next in travel.

Trending in Lifestyle

Air pollutant index, highest api readings, select state and location to view the latest api reading.

• Select Location

Source: Department of Environment, Malaysia

Others Also Read

Best viewed on Chrome browsers.

We would love to keep you posted on the latest promotion. Kindly fill the form below

Thank you for downloading.

We hope you enjoy this feature!

The driving time from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand is:

Average driving speed: 50.9 mph Kilometers per hour: 81.8 km/h This is based on typical traffic conditions for this route.

• Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok drive
• trips from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

Change your driving speed:

mph     km/h    

Map of driving directions from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest . You can use DriveDistance.com to find out how far is it to drive from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok with full directions.

More trip calculations

• Driving Distance
• Cost To Drive
• Reverse Driving Time
• Places To Stop
• Hotels near Bangkok, Thailand
• Flight Duration
• Distance To Fly
• airports near Bangkok, Thailand
• airlines flying to Bangkok, Thailand
• Direct Flight
• Time Zone Change

Driving time from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand

How long is the drive from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand? The total driving time is 18 hours .

Your trip begins in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It ends in Bangkok, Thailand.

If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand .

You can also calculate the cost to drive from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand based on current local gas prices and an estimate of your car's best gas mileage.

Since this is a long drive, you might want to stop halfway and stay overnight in a hotel. You can find the city that is halfway between Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Bangkok, Thailand .

Planning to fly a plane instead? You might be more interested in calculating the flight time from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Bangkok, Thailand.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Related links.

• airlines serving Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• hotels near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• airports near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• cities near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bangkok, Thailand

• airlines serving Bangkok, Thailand
• hotels near Bangkok, Thailand
• cities near Bangkok, Thailand

Driving time calculator

Travelmath helps you find the driving time based on actual directions for your road trip. You can find out how long it will take to drive between any two cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes. This can also help you plan the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results with the flight time calculator to see how much longer it might take to drive the distance instead of flying. You can also print out pages with a travel map.

Home  ·  About  ·  Terms  ·  Privacy

• Open main menu
• Open search popup
• Philippines
• Close main menu
• Breaking News
• Current Affairs
• Community News
• New Openings
• Activities & Attractions
• Food Reviews
• Food Guides
• Nightlife Guides
• Hotel Reviews
• Hotel Guides
• Family & Kid-friendly
• Photo Spots
• Monthly Lobangs
• Sports & Fitness
• Beauty & Wellness
• Volunteering
• Phillippines
• New Zealand
• Africa & Middle East
• Rest of World
• Travel Guides & Tips
• Perspectives
• Inspiration
• Dating & Relationships
• Self-Improvement
• Upcoming Events

Guide To Traveling From Malaysia To Thailand From May 2022: From Test & Go To Go Go Go

New procedures for travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok from May 2022

Flying is now a breath of fresh air, as some might call it after a two-year break from traveling. Since the initial relaxation of travel and quarantine restrictions, some Malaysians eagerly took to the skies – whilst others are taking a more cautious approach to overseas travel.

Given the fluid travel circumstances these days, we’ve decided to embark on a journey travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok  to bring you a first-hand account so that your own experience will be smooth-sailing.

Quarantine-free travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok for the fully vaccinated

Before 1st May 2022, vaccinated travelers were required to undergo both pre-departure and on-arrival testing in Thailand, with a short quarantine till a negative result was received. Quarantine back then could only be carried out at a hotel that satisfies pandemic-level safety and health standards – meaning to say they are SHA+ certified – set by the Thai government.

Image credit: Siam Legal/AXA Insurance

However, beginning 1st May 2022, the entry requirements to Thailand have been reduced to the following:

• Take a Self-Antigen Test Kit (ATK) test which is recommended, but not mandatory, during your stay
• Stay at any chosen accommodation – it doesn’t have to be SHA+ certified
• Purchase travel insurance with a minimum coverage of USD10,000 for Covid-19 treatment, with proof of purchase submitted via the Thailand Pass website.

On the third point, it is important to note that your insurance letter or certificate should ideally be contained to a single page which expressly states that it covers a minimum of USD 10,000. My application was rejected on our first submission attempt despite having sufficient coverage as the amount was only reflected on a much later page of the document.

My first reaction was to appeal the rejection. However, there was no such option. After multiple attempts to call through, I was told to reapply immediately using the exact same documents, which were approved shortly after and leaving me to concur that the approval process is initially an automated one and the second involved an actual person viewing my documentation.

Five-day quarantine for the partially vaccinated & unvaccinated

Individuals who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated have to undergo a mandatory 5-day quarantine at a SHA+ hotel which may be booked through Agoda. A PCR test will be administered on day 5.

The PCR test can be avoided by submitting a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to travel via the Thailand Pass website. Similarly, insurance of a minimum of USD10,000 for Covid-19 treatment is required.

The journey begins: travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

Quivering with excitement, I approached a Malaysian Airlines check-in counter at KLIA International Airport. During my travels pre-pandemic, I would usually hold a mobile phone pressed tightly against my passport in one hand. Today, I held a folder containing the following encyclopedia of documents:

• Pre-departure RT-PCR (Not applicable from 1 May onwards)
• Thailand Pass QR Code
• Hotel confirmation
• Proof of insurance

This was swiftly accompanied by a quarantine of suspected Covid-19 form (not applicable from 1 May onwards) and airline boarding pass which I was also handed at the airport.

The plane ride to Bangkok

Pre-pandemic, one might experience the occasional chirpy conversations which go beyond “Hello, how are you”, with the air stewardess standing at the end of the aerobridge at the entrance of the aircraft.

Today, I received a polite greeting from an air stewardess, whose smile hid behind a mask and face shield. On board my short flight, service was similar to that of the pre-pandemic era, with meal service resumed.

The arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Arrival procedures at the airport seemed unchanged from the past, till I was greeted by rows of chairs placed at makeshift waiting areas. These were for passengers arriving from countries that required on-arrival PCR tests or passengers without pre-departure PCR tests on hand.

Initial pre-boarding PCR and Thai Pass verification before immigration

A short queue formed at the junction before the immigration counters where numerous officers stood. I waited for approximately 5 minutes till a masked officer signaled for me to approach, after which she checked the following:

• Pre-boarding PCR (Not applicable from 1 May onwards)

Immigration in Thailand

As the corridor opened into the arrival hall, I walked straight into a huge mass of bodies. Multiple immigration lines snaked around the arrival hall with officers edging the crowds into makeshift queues.

Unfortunately for business travelers and APEC card holders, these Fast Tracks were closed. The only way around the wait was if you were traveling on Business Class. I waited approximately 45 minutes will I made it to an immigration officer who checked the following:

• Immigration form
• Boarding Pass
• Quarantine of suspected Covid-19 form (Not applicable from 1 May onwards)
• Hotel reservation

Luggage collection and SIM card purchases upon entry

For connected millennials who are unable to spend a minute away from the cyber world, purchases of SIM cards are available from major service providers (AIS, True, DTAC) near rows 12 and 18 of the luggage collection area. This is in addition to the regular booths which can be found after you enter the main terminal.

Unlike the pre-pandemic era where passengers could depart through multiple exits, the only accessible exit was exit C near row 21, beyond which the beautiful Kingdom of Thailand awaits.

Visitors head to Thailand for a multitude of reasons: shopping , massages , and sightseeing . For me, it was the scent of curries which lay simmering in aromatic Thai herbs which constantly fill the streets. Not forgetting the affordable yet quirky cafes which offer an endless spread of cafe favorites such as pastas and sweet treats with a tinge of Thai influence.

The pre-departure ART test

For my pre-departure ART test, I managed to book a slot at Synphaet Hospital. Although walk-ins are available, advance booking is highly recommended. Having experienced numerous tests across various countries, I sat on the chair in anticipation of having my nose probed.

However, to my surprise, I was brought to a weighing scale to have my height, weight, and subsequently even temperature taken. Thereafter was the ART administered. I paid ฿1,780, and a quick check online more recently revealed that ART tests cost between ฿1,000 – ฿1,800 (RM127.35-RM229.24).

The return from Suvarnabhumi Airport to KLIA airport

Prior to being handed my boarding pass at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the check-in staff verified the following documents:

• Pre-departure PCR
• Travel Insurance
• My Safe Travel

After that, it was smooth sailing onto the airplane. The once-bustling airport which fell silent during the pandemic has once again sprung to life with a renewed vigor.

When I waltzed through the airport before in the initial days of the pandemic, I had been greeted by empty shops with their lights turned off. Today, the echoes of my footsteps were overwhelmed by the many tourists grazing through the bustling retail and food outlets now open, bringing the airport beyond its former glory.

Thailand – the land of smiles

Bangkok is the Las Vegas of Asia by night to some. It has a colorful nightlife that hosts boisterous hen and stag parties. By day, its bustling street hawkers line main traffic junctions on makeshift stalls contributing to the symphonic sound of exhaust pipes and flaming woks.

Take a stroll along the Chao Phraya River at dusk as it meanders through the capital and explore the city as it gradually comes to life. From quintessential phad thai to Micheline starred rooftop dining experiences boasting sensational views of the city skyline, Bangkok promises to fill both your camera and your tummies.

Bangkok’s easing of travel restrictions come as a relief and in a timely manner as it coincides with multiple long weekends and meets our ever-growing hunger for travel. But as we spread our wings and take flight, let us not forget to stay safe and remain in this fight against Covid-19.

Interested in following in our writer’s footsteps and travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok? Follow The Smart Local Thailand ‘s articles here:

• Bangkok night markets to visit in 2022
• Thai forest resorts
• Ichiba Station – Japanese night market in Bangkok
• Oakland Cafe Bangkok has glampsite-themed seating

Cover image adapted from: Ian Poh Jin Tze View more of Ian’ s work on his website and Instagram .

• China’s KKV Opens First Store In Malaysia With 4 Floors Of Quirky Lifestyle Products & Beauty Goods From RM2.90
• Live Concerts In Malaysia You’ll Want To Keep Your Eyes Out For In 2024
• 30 Things To Do In & Near Ipoh – Visit Must-Try Eateries, Serene Nature Spots & Thrift Markets
• Hobbitoon Village: A New Attraction Near Cameron Highlands With IRL Hobbit Homes & A Cafe For Major Shire Vibes
• 60 Things To Do In Melaka That Prove There’s More To The State Besides Jonker Street Night Market

Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok Overland: Backpacking Trip Itinerary

One of the most common routes for backpacking in South-East Asia is traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok overland.  It’s an absolute amazing trip with tons of incredible places to see along the way!  From starting out this trip in an amazing metropolitan city like Kuala Lumpur, and then breaking away to some gorgeous islands — this is definitely going to be a trip you’ll never forget.

This Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok overland travel guide will go over my proposed route, travel tips, helpful websites, and some of my favorite blog posts I’ve written along my travels.

Brief Overview & Itinerary Route

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 
• Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
• Penang, Malaysia
• Langkawi, Malaysia
• Koh Lipe, Thailand
• Koh Lanta, Thailand
• Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
• Ao Nang / Railey Beach, Thailand
• Koh Phangan, Thailand
• Koh Tao, Thailand
• Bangkok, Thailand

 Kuala Lumpur (3-4 Days)

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur.  This is truly a special place with friendly people, beautiful sights, and delicious food (just like the rest of Malaysia).  During my travels in South-East Asia , I was lucky enough to call this city home for awhile.  The first time I visited Kuala Lumpur I actually didn’t enjoy the city too much, but after spending more time there I discovered how special the city really is.

For more information on Kuala Lumpur, check out the following blog posts I’ve written:

• 10 Amazing Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
• Heli Lounge, Kuala Lumpur; Drinks + Sunset on a Helipad
• The Absolute Best Thing To Do in Kuala Lumpur

This is one of my favorite cities in South-East Asia, and definitely worth the visit for a few days.  If you’re on a time crunch, you won’t want to spend too much time here.  Just make sure you cover all the city highlights.

Best Hostel for Backpackers in Kuala Lumpur:

Reggae Mansion :  Perfectly located in the China town district of KL. The rooms are comfortable, the staff are friendly, and it has  epic rooftop parties every night!   This is the ideal backpacker hostel, and you’ll absolutely love staying here.  Read Reviews & Check Availability!

Bus to Cameron Highlands (2-3 days)

Book a bust ticket on 12Go.Asia  from Kuala Lumpur up to the Cameron Highlands.  

The Cameron Highlands is a stunning hill station in central peninsular Malaysia, and has become a popular destination for visitors in Malaysia. Roughly the size of Singapore, the Cameron Highlands covers a large stretch of land, and there’s tons to see, do, and explore.  You’ll fall in love with the beautiful green tea plantations, and will leave you speechless when you visit the highest peak in the Cameron Highlands

For more information on the Cameron Highlands, check out the guide below!

A Backpacker’s Guide to the Cameron Highlands

Best Backpacker Hostel in Cameron Highlands

Map Travelodge

Just recently opened in 2017, this is becoming the hottest new hostel and place to stay in the Cameron Highlands.  It’s beautifully designed, has a vibrant atmosphere, and perfectly located in the center of all the action.  Amazing staff, comfy beds, and super budget-friendly rooms!  Read Reviews & Check Availability.

Bus to Penang (2-3 Days)

Book your travel from the  Cameron Highlands to Penang .

Penang is the cultural hotspot in Malaysia!  You’ll fall in love with it’s busy streets, beautiful artwork, and enchanting history.  Oh, and the food is absolutely amazing.   Most people come to Penang only planning a few day stay, but end up staying much longer than they expected.  You can spend a day on Batu Ferringi beach, hike through the National Park, and take the journey up to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the entire city.        

Best things to do in Penang:

• Beach day and sunset on Batu Ferringi Beach
• Spend some time hiking through the National Park
• Take a visit to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the city
• Stroll through Georgetown and check out all the artwork
• Eat at Penang’s famous hawker stalls

Best Backpacker Hostel in Penang

Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel

This is a newly opened hostel in Penang, with great affordable rooms, well-located, and excellent Japan theme.  Excellent reviews by everyone, and would by my top-pick for sure!  It’s definitely worth checking out!  Read Reviews & Check Availability .

View from Penang Hill

Ferry from Penang – Langkawi (4-5 Days) 

Purchase a ferry ticket from Penang to Langkawi online . 

Officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, around 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.  It’s right at the border of Thailand, and is a popular place to visit for traveller’s going north/south between Malaysia and Thailand.  It is truly an amazing island with amazing things to do, cheap accommodations, tax-free booze, and beautiful landscape.

Check out some of my blog posts on Langkawi:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Langkawi, Malaysia
• Top 5 Reasons to Backpack Langkawi
• Berjaya Resort Crashing in Langkawi
• Chasing Waterfalls in Langkawi

Best Backpacker Hostel on Langkawi

Langkawi Dormitorio :

Centrally located right in the middle of Pantai Cenang, with tons of shops and restaurant just footsteps away.  The  hostel rooms are cheap,  the facilities are great, and the beds are super comfortable.  You’ll meet tons of fellow backpackers, and it’s the perfect place to stay for your Langkawi explorations!   Check for rates & availability .

Ferry from Langkawi – Koh Lipe, Thailand  *Seasonal (4-5 Days)

After exploring Langkawi, you’r e ready to continue your adventure north into Thailand .

Book a ferry ticket online from Langkawi to Koh Lipe

After spending some time on Langkawi, you’re ready to journey further north into Thailand.  You’ll start your Thailand Island Hopping adventures in Koh Lipe, which is known as the “Maldives of Thailand”.  Pristine beaches, incredible food, and amazing sunrises & sunsets.

Ferry from Langkawi – Koh Lipe only available from November – May throughout the year.  If you’re traveling during the low season, you’ll have to take the ferry to Satun, Thailand — and catch the bus + ferry combo ticket from mainland Thailand.  Traveling during this time can be a bit expensive, it just depends on your budget and time restrictions.  It might be best to skip this island if you can’t take the direct ferry. 

Check out this amazing post from my friends at Getting Stamped titled, “ The Ultimate Guide to Koh Lipe, Thailand .”  This is one of the most informative guides I’ve ever seen, and will answer all your questions about traveling to this beautiful island.

Best Backpacker Hostel on Koh Lipe, Thailand

Bloom Cafe & Hostel

Amazing cafe, perfect location, and a new hostel on the second floor.  Great reviews, fast internet, and a solid base for a comfortable stay in paradise.  Read Reviews & Check Availability

Sunrise on Koh Lipe. Photo credit:   Bambo Corr

Ferry from Koh Lipe – Koh Lanta (4-5 Days) 

Also depends on time of the year.  You might have to catch ferry + bus combo ticket up to the Krabi Province. 

After you’ve explored Koh Lipe to your liking, catch a ferry up to your next Thai Island, Koh Lanta.

Check out this awesome travel guide from the crew over at Never Ending Voyage titled, “ Finding the Perfect Balance: Our Guide to Koh Lanta “.  This post will go over all the information you need for your time in Koh Lanta.

You’ll fall in love with this incredibly relaxing island.  There’s incredible beaches, a beautiful national park, and loads of other stuff to explore.  My main recommendation would be to hire a moped, and explore the entire island.  It’s the best way to see the island.   You can pack a bag, take breaks at all the beaches, and see how beautiful the island is.

• Read :  My Moto and Me: Exploring Koh Lanta on Two Wheels .

Best Backpacker Hostel on Koh Lanta

Blanco Hostel Lanta

“Luxurious ensuite dorms are equipped with A/C, two showers and toilets, power sockets, reading lights and lockers for each of the beds. We have a beautiful garden where you will find hammocks, a massage hut, our restaurant and a bar. We provide towels and a proper comfy duvet for no cost at all. Scooter rentals are also available at the hostel.”  Read Reviews & Check Availability

Ferry from Koh Lanta – Koh Phi Phi (4-5 Days)

When you’re ready to leave Koh Lanta (which can be harder than you think), you’ll be on your way to one of the most beautiful, photogenic, and most well-known places in Thailand — Koh Phi Phi.  Known primarily for the nearby Maya Bay being the film location for the Leonardo DiCaprio hit movie — “The Beach”.

Some people criticize Koh Phi Phi for being too touristy now, and too focused on partying — but it is still an absolute must visit during your time in Thailand.

Read my following blog posts on Koh Phi Phi

• The Absolute Best Thing to do On Koh Phi Phi
• 20 AwesomeThings to do on Koh Phi Phi

Leaving Koh Phi Phi is no easy task.  The party vibe is solid, there is amazing food, and you’re guaranteed to make some amazing new friends!  I personally think it’s the most beautiful area in Thailand!

Best Backpacker Hostel on Koh Phi Phi

Blanco Beach Bar Phi Phi  **PARTY HOSTEL**

While you probably won’t be falling asleep anytime before 2-3 A.M, you’ll have prime beach front location for that hangover coconut in the morning!  This place is known for it’s legendary beach parties, so you need to experience it before you leave Koh Phi Phi!

Ferry from Koh Phi Phi – Ao Nang, Railey Beach, & Krabi (4-6 Days)

After spending the past couple weeks on Islands, it’s time to cruise back to the mainland.  Ao Nang is a really beautiful beach area, has a decent nightlife scene, and is definitely worth a visit.  There’s an island hopping tour that goes to nearby places, and a really fun pub crawl at night.

Don’t spend too much time in Ao Nang though — make sure you get over to the beautiful Railey Beach & Ton Sai Bay.

You can also hire a mo-ped and explore Krabi town, and the surrounding highlights.

Read:  The Best Hostels in Thailand

Best Backpacker Hostel in Krabi

Pak-Up Krabi

This is still one of my favorite hostels I’ve ever stayed at!  The rooms are super clean, the bathroom facilities are amazing, and it has the best bar in all of Krabi.  The design / theme of the hostel is super fun, they organize awesome tours, and it’s just truly a 5* hostel experience!  If you’re coming to Krabi, make sure you stay here!  But make sure you  book-in advance , as Pak-Up Hostel sells out very quickly!

Book a Bus + Ferry Combo from Krabi to Koh Phangan (5 Days)

There are loads of travel agencies around Ao Nang and the Krabi that will help you book this ticket.  I typically travel with Lomprayah .   It is by the most established and organized company out there, and enjoy my travels when I book with them.  During peak season, they can sell out tickets.  (Especially prior to a Full Moon Party.)

Koh Phangan is one of the craziest party islands in South-East Asia  !  You’ll often hear bad things about the Full Moon Party, but too be honest — it’s a damn good time (if you’re with the right people).  There’s something really fun about getting dressed up in Neon, covering yourself in bodypaint, and dancing all night with fellow backpackers.

To be perfectly honest though, the best party on Koh Phangan isn’t the Full Moon Party.  There’s so many better clubs, venues, and events that you should look into!  If your trip doesn’t align well with a date for the FMP, definitely still go to Koh Phangan!  It’s a great place to spend some time, relax, meet people, party, and enjoy paradise!

Epic Backpacker Hostel on Koh Phangan

Echo Beach Backpackers

I’ve stayed here on four separate occasions for four different Full Moon Parties, and it’s simply one of my favorite hostels!  The hostel bar throws pre-parties every night, they organize transportation to / from the parties, and they even do family dinner nights.  It’s not the most clean or comfortable, but the vibe is incredible!  Read Reviews & Check Availability

Ferry up to Koh Tao (4-5 Days)

Koh Tao is the very first island I visited in my travels in South-East Asia, and it is by far one of my favorite places in Thailand.  This is a scuba-diver’s paradise, and is the perfect location to get your PADI certifications.  If you don’t want to do the full course, make sure you at least do a “Discover Scuba” one-day course.  It’s one of the most affordable places to try out scuba-diving, and is absolutely beautiful.  When you’re not scuba diving, Koh Tao is an amazing island to explore by moto.  Just choose carefully where you rent it, because this island is notorious for rental places taking advantages of tourists and withholding passports until the pay ridiculous “damage fees”.  Also make sure you do a day-trip to Koh Nang Yuan, Mango View point, The Koh Tao Pub Crawl, and party hard on Sairee Beach!

Read:    7 Amazing Things to do on Koh Tao

Best Backpacker Hostel on Koh Tao

Goodtime Beach Hostel

Just a fair warning – this is a hostel for the young, adventurous, and those searching for good times! It can get pretty crazy, but also has excellent facilities.  You can get do your SCUBA DIVING courses here, rock climbing, snorkeling, flying trapeze, and party all night on the beach.  The food is great, the drinks are always flowing, and the  vibe is on point!   Read Reviews & Check Availability .

Ferry + Bus from Koh Tao to Bangkok

You’ve seen the best islands Thailand has to offer, now it’s time to finish your trip in the “Big Mango”.  Bangkok is truly an amazing city, and there’s tons of amazing things to do, see, and explore.  It’s the gateway to South-East Asia, and most backpackers out here find themselves in Bangkok more than once.  The street food is delicious, the people are friendly, and you’ll absolutely love exploring all the temples, malls, and rooftop bars.

Read :  10 Amazing Things to do in Bangkok

Best Backpacker Hostel in Bangkok

NapPark Hostel

There’s simply no better place to begin or end your travels in Thailand, and it even was awarded the title of  “best hostel in Asia at the 2011 Hoscars”.  It’s perfectly located just a couple streets away from Khao San Road, and is walking distance from several of Bangkok’s biggest attractions.  It’s designed for backpackers, and has an incredibly welcoming atmosphere and vibe.  Read Reviews & Check Availability .

Substitutions & Other Destinations

• The Perhentian Islands :  When you are traveling up through Malaysia, you could easily head over to the stunning Perhentian Islands.  It’s all the way on the east coast of Malaysia, so it’s a bit out of the way for this itinerary- but it would be incredible.  You could get a bus + ferry here from the Cameron Highlands.  Then when you’re ready to leave, take a bus over to Penang to continue the itinerary.
• Phuket & Koh Samui:  Two of the most popular touristy destinations in Thailand, but I always recommend people to skip them.  They are overcrowded, expensive, and you can find much better places to spend your time.
• Ko Yao Nai National Park & Ko Tarutao are both absolutely gorgeous, and could easily be worked into this itinerary during your time on Koh Lipe, and Koh Phi Phi.

Travel Tips & Suggestions

• Do NOT travel around Southeast Asia without TRAVEL INSURANCE .  If you get sick, have something stolen, or get injured – you need to make sure you have proper coverage!
• Travel slow .  I give a recommended time in each place, but if you’re in not on a time crunch, then take it slow and enjoy your time in each place.  Otherwise, you might be spending a lot of time in transit.
• Buy a Local Sim Card.  This always comes in handy in Malaysia & Thailand.  There are really cheap data plans.
• Download my Free-Book.  “ 77 Amazing, Helpful, Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking South-East Asia ” for all my best backpacking tips.
• Stay in Hostels.  This is such an awesome backpacker route, and the best way to experience these destinations is to interact with other travelers!
• Eat often!  The food in all three of these countries is absolutely amazing!  There are plenty of places for cheap eats, and all the meals are delicious.

Check out These Articles About This Region

• Malaysia Travel Guide: Trip Highlights, Destinations, & Itineraries
• 3 Weeks in Thailand | The Best Travel Itinerary
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Thailand (Instagram Checklist)

Thanks for reading my Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok Backpacking Trip Itinerary!

If you’re planning a trip to South-East Asia and have any questions, feel free to Contact Me with any questions you have!  I’ve spent a lot of time backpacking around the area, and love helping people plan their travels!  Also, make sure you sign-up for my Newsletter below to download my FREE E-Book below that is full of amazing tips and information.  

Great itinerary!! Thank you so much!

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Photography Gear

Work With Me

Privacy Policy

Destinations

Music Festivals

Travel Itineraries

Inspiration

Travel Gifts

Southeast Asia

Welcome to HHWT

• Phone Number

Enter verify code

Join the community..

Sign up to access your saved articles across all your devices.

By continuing with your action, you agree to Have Halal, Will Travel’s Terms Of Use

Create your account

Password should contain atleast 8 characters with combination of alphanumeric, special characters and one uppercase letter.

Multi Factor Authentication

IF you have need multi face Authentication?

key generated for 2FA. Please verify through QR scan

key generated for 2FA. Please check your mail to get key and manually enter in on Google authenticator app and verify the token

Enter your email and we'll send you a link to reset your password

Enter your new password to reset your password.

• Inspiration
• Southeast Asia

8 Amazing Drives From Malaysia To Thailand For The Best Road Trip Adventure Ever

Cheng Sim  •  May 04, 2018

Taking a flight to your favourite Thailand destination is a luxurious way to move your travel radar. However, road-tripping provides a different experience altogether. Every route promises changing landscapes and every path guarantees new sights to see ?

Credit: giphy

Now, take out your bucket list. If there’s a Thailand road trip sandwiched between skydiving and bungee jumping, this article is made for you. Whether you’re in Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lipis, get behind the wheels and hit the road to the Land of Smiles that's just a few hours away.

Before you drive

Credit: @katique151 on Instagram

For your road trip, it’s important to create a checklist of the essential items you need. Bring your documents (passport, passport photos, car registration form and insurance documents), Touch n’ Go card (for Malaysian tolls), and Thai bahts (in cash).

Since it’s a long drive, remember to perform a car service check, test the wipers, check spare tyres, test the headlights and brakes, and bring other essentials (jumper wires, tool kits and first aid kit). Now, let’s get driving! ?

1. Kota Bharu - Sungai Golok (40 mins)

You might refer to Sungai Golok as ‘Kolok’ or ‘Sungai Kolok’, but essentially, it points to a charming town that is bookended by Malaysia and Thailand. This place might not have gigantic shopping malls like the ones in Bangkok or Phuket, but they’re known for their friendly street markets.

Credit: @kamilmanan on Instagram

Fruits and nuts are great to stock up your road trip supplies. If you’re interested to get affordable clothes and shoes, sifting through shoe displays and clothes bundle will bring happiness to Malaysian shopaholics. You can even get household items for a bargain too!

Credit: @murnyss_zac on Instagram

#HHWT Tip : Before you go to Sungai Golok, make a side trip to the duty free shopping complex at Pengkalan Kubor. Apart from the array of halal food and Thai snacks, the complex is famous for affordable clothes, head scarves, shoes, hand bags, and homewares.

Credit: @c.krone on Instagram

2. Kuala Terengganu - Narathiwat (4 hours 25 mins)

Unless you live in the Northern peninsular of Malaysia, it’s very likely that Narathiwat doesn’t ring a bell. If you’ve never heard of Narathiwat, here’s why you should get to know this place better. The beauty of this Thailand province lies in its laid-back lifestyle. It has a kampung-like atmosphere, and the Muslim locals love to take it easy as they go about their day.

Credit: @bamang08 on Instagram

To immerse yourself in Narathiwat’s relaxing way of life, throw your gaze to the waters of Narathat beach, where food stalls and souvenir shops abound. You can also visit Ko Yao Island for a glimpse of Muslim fishermen sourcing their catch of the day. To reach this spot, you need to cross a 345-meter-long wooden bridge from Tak Bai River to Ko Yao, preferably on a motorcycle.

Credit: @missanaquita on Instagram

#HHWT Tip : The majority of Narathiwat locals are Muslims, which makes it easy to find halal street food and local eateries ?

3. Seremban - Pattani (5 hours 55 mins)

If you still prefer the laid-back lifestyle of Thailand’s Southern provinces, Pattani is a relaxing alternative. You can catch the intricate details of Thailand’s architecture at the Wat Chang Hai temple and City Pillar Shrine. Similarly, the gorgeous architecture of the Pattani Central Mosque and Krue Se Mosque will awe you as well!

Credit: @aininooooo on Instagram

To unwind with the sounds of nature, there’s a relaxing beach called Laem Tachi that can take your mind off work. Take a quick dip on a sunny day and the cooling waters of Sai Khao Waterfall will wash your worries away.

Credit: @yasirrr_m on Instagram

4. Kuala Lumpur - Hat Yai (6 hours 16 mins)

Arriving in Hat Yai after a six-hour drive comes with the reward of good food and great people. The town hosts a number of street markets such as the Greenway Night Market (for street food) and Kim Yong Market (for nuts and snacks). Another must-visit is the Hat Yai Floating Market where local vendors sell coconut ice cream, mango salad and other treats from their wooden boats.

Credit: @journey.jernal on Instagram

For the best overview of Hat Yai, you can hire a tuk-tuk and make your way to the famous Municipal Park. Not only will you get to use the panoramic feature on your smartphone, you can also marvel at the golden Buddha statue that peers above you.

Credit: @qis.elias on Instagram

5. Petaling Jaya - Songkhla (6 hours 33 mins)

Some days, you just want to ditch your sandals and bury your feet in the sands. To satiate your desire for a beach holiday, take a scenic road trip to Songkhla. Here, the locals love to spend their time at Samila Beach which is popular due to a bronze mermaid statue.

Credit: @addamkemal on Instagram

Since the beach has amassed a huge tourist following, there are many ways to keep yourself occupied while you're here. You can go horse-riding, cool down with coconut ice cream, and enjoy Thai fried rice at the nearby eateries. For other things to do, check out the Songkhla National Museum, Songkhla Lake, and Wat Hat Yai Nai temple.

Credit: @fizu88  on Instagram

6. Jitra - Phuket (7 hours 15 mins)

If it weren’t for Leonardo DiCaprio’s film ‘The Beach’, Phi Phi Island would have remained as Phuket’s best-kept secret. Until today, the island still welcomes an influx of tourists near and far. Thankfully, this paradise is only a seven-hour drive from Jitra in Kedah. When you arrive here, you can do a mix of watersports activities, sunset cruises, and diving.

Credit: @alenathai on Instagram

To create more footprints in the sand, you can check out Patong Beach and Karon Beach that are dotted with seaside resorts to stay. Similan Islands are equally stunning with its clear waters and soft sands, and with breathtaking coral reefs, it is every scuba diver's favourite spot.

Credit: @thaiveler on Instagram

7. Taiping - Krabi (7 hours 16 mins)

If you’ve been to Phuket, you should consider Krabi as your second option. Landscaped by limestone cliffs and tropical rainforests, the scenery is better than your desktop wallpaper ?

Credit: Vladimir E on Flickr

This Shangri-La is also close to Phi Phi Islands, but there are other beauties worthy of your attention, such as Railay Beach, Ko Lanta Yai, and Ko Poda.

Credit: @savvyalfred on Instagram

The best time to visit is during November until February where the weather remains cool and dry for beach hoppers. If you happen to be here when it’s warm, be as adventurous as you can be! You definitely need to try rock climbing, snorkelling, and white water rafting.

Credit: @traveldr_ on Instagram

8. George Town - Phang-nga (7 hours 47 mins)

It’s completely acceptable to play a James Bond theme song while you ride a long-tailed boat to the James Bond Island, fondly known as Koh Tapu. If you prefer to skip the famous limestone rock-like islets, there are still other things to see.

Credit: @ksaliveaboard on Instagram

There’s the lush Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park that the James Bond director completely missed out on ? The national park also has the cascading Namtok Lampi waterfall for a cool respite after a long day. Furthermore, Phang-nga is close to Surin Islands where you can catch whale sharks and manta rays sightings.

Credit: @th.sailor on Instagram

Flying may sound like a convenient way to travel, but there’s a lot to see beneath those fluffy white clouds. From beautiful landscapes and spontaneous pit stops, a great deal of adventure awaits road trippers. Whether you’re making a trip to Krabi or Hat Yai, any road trip to Thailand will renew your perspective on traveling ?

Save to Bucket List

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur - Road Trips Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Road Trips Forums

Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Road Trips forum

Looking for some advice and help, its our 30 Anniversary next April and we're planning on doing a 30 day trip. We're at the early stage of planning and will possibly include 2 weeks in Australia as our daughter will be there at the same time, now on to our question.

Thanks in advance

As to what to see and do, the only time I did much of this drive (never done all of it in a car ) was so long ago, I was a passenger in my parent's car , so cannot offer anything useful.

In general it's relatively unusual to self drive in those countries. Partly because car hire for foreigners is super expensive because of the insurance being very high as a result of the risks of accidents or other problems as driving styles are hugely different from those of most western countries. Also, because in general there's no need to self drive because, if you want a more flexible, personalised trip, hiring a car with driver is not that expensive - certainly cheaper than self driving when you add in the cost of insurance, fuel, etc. Plus, the locals know their way about - you may struggle in smaller places in Thailand to find your way around, even with good GPS/sat nav as you won't be able to read road information and on some roads only larger towns have the name in characters you could read at some junctions.

However, you are also unlikely to find a car with driver that can take you all the way, as a car with driver from Bangkok won't have the personal nor vehicle paperwork to cross the border to Malaysia from Thailand.

Finally, the best advice for your trip plan would be to post on both the Thailand/Bangkok and the Malaysia/KL forums, see links below:

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowForum-g293916-i3687-Bangkok.html

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowForum-g298570-i7008-Kuala_Lumpur_Wilayah_Persekutuan.html

Have fun, 30 day trip for a 30th anniversary, what a wonderful idea.

I checked to see if man in seat 61 had done that route and he has; so that is your best resource https://www.seat61.com/Thailand.htm He hangs out in the train forum if you have more questions about the trains.

Thanks for your replys

Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Two weeks vacation in Nevada and Arizona 6:12 am
• NYC to Grand Canyon North Rim. 12:40 am
• Choice of car for 7 Week US road trip - SUV or Sedan ? 11:43 pm
• Suggestions for late booking US roadtrip in Aug 9:22 pm
• Need roadtrip suggestions from Dallas TX in new year vacy yesterday
• Road trip from Hudson, Wi to Gatlinburg with 3 young kids May 28, 2024
• Seattle to Salt Lake May 28, 2024
• Advice about planning a long road trip through the USA May 28, 2024
• Road trip from Richmond, Va to NYC May 28, 2024
• Wisconsin to California May 28, 2024
• Road trip FL to MI with 3 Kids May 27, 2024
• Shenandoah NP area May 27, 2024
• East Coast Trip Advice May 27, 2024
• RV trip from Miami to Quebec and Back May 27, 2024
• Planning a road trip
• Tips for driving in the USA
• Tips for foreigners: Renting or buying a vehicle in the USA?
• Suggestions for a South West USA road trip
• Suggestions for an East Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a West Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a 'Deep South' road trip
• What are safety concerns and precautions when experiencing nature in North America?
• What should I pack for a road trip in the USA.?
• Do I need to book hotels ahead or can I book hotels as I travel?
• Should I rent an RV to save money on a road trip?
• Route 66 - how long do I need and where should I stop?
• Planning a road trip- lodging in the national parks
• Thinking of a long, family road trip in the west? Read this trip report for ideas
• Road trip ideas from Memphis down thru MS to New Orleans
• ***Visiting Canada From the USA***
• Cannabis - Entering Canada
• Campervan Tips for a Road Trip

• Komuter Trains
• KTM Timetables
• KTM Route Map
• Malaysia Train Tickets Online
• Malaysia Bus Tickets
• Popular Destinations:
• Butterworth Penang
• Johor Bahru
• Kuala Lumpur
• Padang Besar
• Sungai Petani
• Book Thai Tickets Online
• SRT Timetables
• Thai Bus Tickets
• Chumphon (Koh Tao)
• Surat Thani (Koh Samui)

How to Travel from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok by Bus

If you want to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok by bus you will have to make a stop along the way, as there are no direct bus services to Bangkok from KL.

It is a long journey and will take you around one day to cover the 1,475 Kilometres between the two capitals.

For travelling between KL and Bangkok by train click here >

Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok by Bus via Hat Yai

The fastest way from KL to Bangkok by bus is to first take one of the many morning departures or overnight buses from Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai (the largest city in southern Thailand and just 50 kilometres over the Thai / Malaysia border).

Bus companies that run services on the KL to Hat Yai bus route are:

Konsortium Bas Ekspres, Alisan Golden Coach Express, Suasana Edaran Express, Hatyai Intertop Express and City Holidays Express.

All bus companies offer either luxury Express,  Executive or VIP buses and are quiet comfortable, with a journey time of around 8 hours (depending on traffic and time taken to cross the border at Sadao border crossing)

To see current departure times and fares for buses from KL to Hat Yai click here >

Buses depart Kuala Lumpur from both the Hentian Duta and TBS bus stations / terminals.

Bus tickets from KL to Hat Yai start at around 60 MYR upwards, depending on how luxurious the bus is.

Once you arrive in Hat Yai, get dropped off at the bus station (many of these buses continue on to the centre of the city) which should be the first stop the bus makes in Hat Yai, as it is located to the south of the city.

From Hat Yai bus station you can now catch a bus to Bangkok.

• Book Train Tickets >
• ETS Trains >
• ETS Schedule >

From Hat Yai to Bangkok by bus you have a choice of buses from the Government run bus company (buses leave from inside the bus terminal) or more comfortable private luxury and VIP bus companies that usually sell their tickets through agents that surround the terminal.

The most popular buses leave Hat Yai in the evening and take around 13 hours to travel overnight to the capital.

To check times and fares for some operators from Hat Yai to Bangkok click here >

Bus tickets from Hat Yai to Bangkok cost around 700 THB upwards.

Buses from Hat Yai will arrive at Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, Sai Tai Mai. For information about the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok click here >

For how to travel from the Southern Bus Terminal to the city click here >

If you are not in a hurry, you can take a less direct route from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok by bus, with dozens of places to stop along the way.

A popular way to go would be to travel from KL to Penang, then take a ferry to Langkawi , cross the border to Hat Yai, then off to Krabi or Phuket on the west coast of Thailand or the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Ko Tao on the east coast.

Related Pages:

KL to Hat Yai Trains >

Hat Yai to Bangkok Trains >

Book Transport / Hotels Online

Malaysia / Singapore:

- Train >

- Ferry >

Thailand / Laos / Cambodia / Vietnam...:

 - Bus >

 - Train >

 - Ferry >

Find Cheap Flights in SE Asia >

Search our Site

Privacy Policy / Disclaimer

Copyright © 2024

Flight search

• Adults Remove adult 1 Add adult
• Children Aged 2-11 Aged 2 to 11 Remove child 0 Add child
• Infants In seat Remove infant in seat 0 Add infant in seat
• Infants On lap Remove infant on lap 0 Add infant on lap
• Premium economy

Cheap flights from Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

Good to know, when is the cheapest time to fly, popular airports near federal territory of kuala lumpur.

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 1 hr 43 km
• Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 29 min 15 km
• Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH) Ipoh 2 hr 16 min 172 km
• Penang International Airport (PEN) Penang 3 hr 40 min 286 km

Popular airports near Bangkok

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Bangkok 37 min 27 km
• Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) Bangkok 33 min 20 km
• U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport (UTP) Pattaya City 2 hr 8 min 131 km
• Hua Hin Airport (HHQ) Hua Hin District 2 hr 34 min 138 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

Search more flights, popular trips from federal territory of kuala lumpur.

These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months.

Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

• Tokyo RUB 27,850 Jul 4 — Jul 7 1 stop 10 hr Scoot
• Bangkok RUB 8,944 Jun 6 — Jun 9 Nonstop 2 hr 15 min Batik Air
• Sydney RUB 27,386 Aug 15 — Aug 18 Nonstop 8 hr 10 min AirAsia X
• London RUB 52,401 Jun 8 — Jun 10 1 stop 30 hr 25 min Emirates

Find flights from Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur to anywhere

More places to fly.

Bangkok vs Kuala Lumpur: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

W hen it comes to Asian city breaks, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are two that should be near the top of everyone’s bucket list. That’s because both of these lively cities can offer unique experiences and unforgettable vacations.

B oth cities have their charm, with Bangk ok being cha otic with narrow packed streets, but lots of street se l lers, f o od and world-famous nightlife! In c omparis on Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia is m ore sedate and green, has many English speakers and is a rea l me lting p ot of Asian cultures.

However that’s just scratching the surface!

Thankfully we know both cities well, so are here to help you decide which one is right for you. Below we compare both cities, and give our honest opinion on which is safer, cheaper, has the best excursions, nightlife, and more:

So let’s dive in!

• Which Has The Better Cultural Experience
• Which Has Better Nightlife
• Which Has Better Shopping
• Which Has Better Excursions
• Which Is Cheaper
• Which Is Safer
• Which Is The Better Choice

Which Has The Better Cultural Experience?

There’s no doubt that Bangkok is the cultural hub of Thailand, and the city has a vibrant mix of traditional temples alongside an exciting and emerging modern art and music scene.

Thailand’s capital remains very much a city centered around Thais rather than tourists, and as such there’s an array of street food, museums, markets and floating markets to enjoy and explore.

We rec ommend visiting Yaowarat   Road   which is one of the largest street f o od sp ots in the w or ld. In fact when it c omes t o f o od experiences, this city is one of the best on the p lanet!

However there’s something special about Kuala Lumpur, and people fr om thr ough out the regi on have made this city h ome.

Subsequently the many nationalities and cultures here have influenced the music, art, food and fashion in the city, making a trip here an assault on the senses in a g o od way. English is widely spoken in the city t o o – more s o than Bangk ok – making it an easy p lace t o navigate.

Check out Jalan Alor street f or hawker stalls and great seaf o od, and Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market f or an Aladdin’s cave of g o ods, antiques and m ore.

Winner: Draw

Which Has The Better Nightlife?

People from around the world come to Bangkok to experience Thailand’s famous nightlife and the various vices it caters too.

Bangkok has a rowdy reputation and areas like Khao San Road , Soi Cowboy , and the famous red light district of Patpong , are at the heart of Bangkok’s nightlife scene. F or y our own safety when in these areas it’s best t o stick t o the main r oads and d on’t venture d own side streets.

Kuala Lumpur has a burge oning nightlife scene t o o, fr om swanky c ocktai l bars t o budget beer p laces. Streets like Jalan Bukit Bintang tend t o c ome alive when the sun g oes d own and y ou can find a l l sorts of evening entertainment opti ons on this energetic street.

Sti l l, Bangkok’s lively and l oud night life scene is fam ous f or a reas on, and is the best ch oice if y our pri ority is fun when the sun goes down.

Winner: Bangk ok

Which Has The Better Shopping?

B oth of these capita l cities have fam ous sh opping streets and mega ma l ls, s o y ou’re unlikely t o be disapp ointed if y ou have ambiti ons of a sh opping spree.

However Kuala Lumpur tends t o be a better sh opping destinati on when y ou’re on the hunt f or high-end brands.

M ore and m ore ma l ls appear t o p op up every time you visit t o o, and this city is bec oming a rea l p owerh ouse when it c omes t o sh opping experiences. The ma l ls themse lves can be quite spectacu lar as we l l.

Bangk ok is cheaper overall when it c omes t o sh opping, but remains a hotbed of counterfeit goods. That said, y ou’ l l find many KL citizens g o t o Bangk ok t o sh op due t o the prices!

Winner: Kuala Lumpur

Which Has The Better Excursions?

Bangkok is packed with things to do, from huge temples like the Grand Palace to floating markets, and everywhere you turn there’s something new to explore or try. 

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market outside of Bangk ok is one of the m ost fam ous markets, and w orth visiting.

Surrounding Bangk ok is the beautiful Khao Yai National Park . Whi lst just a few miles outside the city is Maeklong   Railway Market – this unassuming vegetable market has bec ome fam ous in recent years due t o the fact a train runs directly thr ough the heart of it. It’s now been nicknamed Thailand’s most dangerous market!

Recommended: Hiring a sc o oter in Thailand

Kuala Lumpur is a mix of o ld and m odern, with skyscrapers lo oming over ancient m osques and bust ling markets that have existed f or generati ons.

The Petr onas Towers , which was once the tallest bui lding in the w or ld, is an ic onic structure in the city that c ontains a high-end ma l l and light sh ows in the evening.

N orth of Kuala Lumpur is where y ou’ l l find the stunning Batu Caves (see photo below) – a set of ancient Hindu temp les bui lt within a huge limestone cave. The caves sit at the entrance t o Selangor State Park , a tropical rainforest with trails and waterfalls.

B oth Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok have a plethora of city experiences and tourist attractions, as we l l as things t o d o in the surr ounding area. F or that reas on, we have t o ca l l this a tie.

Which Is Cheaper?

There’s a c lear winner f or us in terms of expenses as Bangk ok is a far cheaper destinati on than Kuala Lumpur in regards t o acc omm odati on, f o od, and m ore.

Thai land’s capita l has many aff ordab le acc omm odati on opti ons t o c over a l l budgets – fr om backpackers t o h oneym o oners – whi lst the easy availability of cheap street f o od ar ound the city is a big p lus.

Kuala Lumpur is n ot as budget friendly, but when it c omes t o high end h ote l r o oms the prices d on’t differ huge ly fr om Bangk ok. In many ways the Ma laysian capita l fee ls a bit like a cheaper Singapore, which isn’t a bad thing.

Which Is Safer?

Both are safe destinations, which is why tourists visit in huge numbers every year. However, as always when on holiday you should avoid confrontations with locals, avoid walking in unlit areas at night, and keep an eye on your drinks when at clubs and bars.

As for which is safer, petty crime – like bag snatching and pickpocketing – tends t o be m ore c omm on in Kuala Lumpur than Bangk ok.

Recommended: Everything A Tourist Needs To Know To Stay Safe in Thailand & Bangkok.

Violent crime targeting foreigners is relatively rare in b oth cities, but these s ort of crimes have happened in b oth Bangk ok and Kuala Lumpur in the past – particularly in nightlife areas. Recommended: Is Kuala Lumpur safe?

Winner: Bangkok

Bangkok vs Kuala Lumpur : Which Is The Better Choice?

B oth cities are definitely w orth visiting at s ome p oint, and each has its own unique charm and quirks.

But if y our pri ority is a great nightlife, an impressive f o od scene and a budget-friendly destinati on, then cha otic Bangk ok may be the better ch oice than Kuala Lumpur.

H owever if y ou want a m ore relaxed city with many English speakers and great sh opping, then the Malaysian capita l may suit y ou m ore.

Recommended For Your Trip To Bangkok Or Kuala Lumpur

Related Posts

Bangkok vs Singapore: The Honest Comparison You Need!

Bangkok vs Manila: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

Bangkok vs Pattaya: An Honest & In-Depth Comparison [2023]

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit sed.

Follow us on

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur drive

Bangkok to kuala lumpur road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur. If you're planning a road trip to Kuala Lumpur, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

8:00 am  start in Bangkok drive for about 2.5 hours

10:40 am   Hua Hin stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:40 am drive for about 3 hours

2:54 pm   Chumphon stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:54 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

6:13 pm   Surat Thani stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:13 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 10.5 hours

9:00 am  leave from Ko Tao drive for about 1.5 hours

10:24 am   Songkhla stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:24 am drive for about 3.5 hours

3:01 pm   Penang stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:01 pm drive for about 2 hours

6:05 pm   Cameron Highlands stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:05 pm drive for about 2 hours

9:06 pm  arrive in Kuala Lumpur stay at Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

day 2 driving ≈ 9 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Hua Hin   (11 answers) Chumphon Surat Thani   (14 answers)     Khao Sok National Park   (4 mentions) Ko Tao   (3 answers) Songkhla   (3 answers) Penang   (40 answers)     Batu Ferringhi   (4 mentions)     MacAlister Road   (3 mentions)     Air Itam Market   (2 mentions)     Little India   (2 mentions)     Penang Island   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Penang:         Gurney Drive Hawker Centre     questions about Penang:         Best Street Food in Penang Cameron Highlands   (6 answers)     Cameron Highlands   (2 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Kuala Lumpur .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur , which was mentioned 4 times on Trippy.

Want to research more popular hotels in Kuala Lumpur? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Kuala Lumpur?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Kuala Lumpur. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kuala Lumpur.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur . Or get a full Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Bangkok well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Bangkok!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur! Worth it?

There’s always this dilemma of how to travel around Thailand. Do I take the train, bus or even a flight. This time I wanted to travel to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and although flying was cheaper and faster I decided to take on the adventure and book a train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.

It was a little more complicated and expensive but the adventure was worth it. Read all about my experiences in my blog below about my  overland travel experience in Thailand.

How long does it take from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok by train?  A flight is only 1,5 hours, but the journey by train is around 36 hours! You will first take a train from Bangkok to Hat Yai and then cross the border into Malaysia by direct bus towards Kuala Lumpur.

I had just finished an amazing overland trip in Asia but I wanted my trip to finish on an even more epic high so I thought I would do something that hundreds of local people do every day and take the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.  God damn, it was a long few days on the track but it was incredible.

I need of a Thailand itinerary that shows you nature, culture, islands & beaches? Click on the link to check out my 4 different Thailand itineraries! Also don't forget to read all my essential Thailand travel tips  or my simple tips on how to stay connected when traveling to Thailand .

Where to book a train ticket?

To start off the overland experience, you’ll need to  book your ticket and no better place to do this than through 12Go Asia . This is an online tour company responsible for train, boat and bus tickets to get you around Asia. The advantage of booking your train ticket online is that it is simple, reliable and convenient.

There is also an train ticket office opposite Hua Lamphong in Bangkok, but online is so much easier.

3rd, 2nd or 1st class train?

There are three classes to choose from when booking a train ticket from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur:

• first class with AC, bed and linen
• second class with AC, bed and linen
• second class with a fan, bed and linen
• third class being the cheapest option gives you a basic seat that doesn’t recline and a fan.

Which one to choose? Well that depends on your budget, but for just a couple dollar more you buy yourself a whole lot of comfort.

Packing list for Thailand? Check my article with a list of 40 things to bring when traveling to Thailand .

Lower bed or upper bed?

If you decide to book either first or second class, be sure to book a lower berth not an upper berth as a lower berth gives you your own window which might not seem much but I can assure you it adds a lot to the adventure.

Route train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur

The train route from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is somewhat surprising as nowadays the train from the border of Thailand to Kuala Lumpur is mostly substituted for a ultra modern luxury coach. The first stretch from Bangkok to Hat Yai, one of the Southernmost cities in Thailand, will take 16-18 hours.

Thai Railways train #171 leaves at 1.00 pm from Bangkok Hua Lamphong station towards Hat Yai.

In Hat Yai you will have between 3 to 5 hours transit time before your direct luxury bus leaves towards Kuala Lumpur. The bus station in Hat Yai is 500 meters away from the train station and easily walkable within 5-10 minutes.

Costs/price  train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur

Although there are two stretches you will buy just 1 ticket, a so called joint ticket. In your mail you will then receive both tickets in 1 document.

The costs for the joint ticket train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is between $50 and $90 depending on your class you book. Here are the up to date prices:

• First class sleeper: $70
• Second class - AC: $40
• Second class - fan: $28

The bus from Hat Yai Station to Kuala lumpur has a fixed price of $21. Click on the links above to get the exact details of the trip of do a search in the 12GO Asia search engine.

My experiences from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur by train

Right, all the boring stuff is now done so it’s time for my experiences traveling across Thailand by train into Malaysia.

The Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur train ride starts at Hua Lamphong in Bangkok, which is the biggest station in Thailand serving places such as Chaing Mai, Kachanaburi and Nakon Sawan to almost every destination in Thailand. 

Train from Bangkok to Hat Yai

The train to Hat Yai usually is an afternoon train, 1.00 pm to be precise and leaves from one of the tracks on the main concourse. When booking your ticket through 12Go Asia they will ask you to be there 1 hour before departure but honestly that’s a bit silly, 20 to 30 minutes will suit you just fine. Just be sure to know which carriage and seat number is on your ticket and navigating the train station will be very easy.

Remember that the train ride from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is a long trip so stock up on food and snacks but don’t worry if you forget to, you are guaranteed to be pestered on the train until you buy something. Vendors are constantly walking from carriage to carriage selling everything from cold drinks, hot meals and things that I have no idea what they actually are. 

Buying food on the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is also a lot cheaper than buying from a shop like Tesco. Expect to pay 20 THB ($0,60) for rice, basil mince and an egg. 

For the first part of the journey, things are super slow going as the train makes its way out of Bangkok. This can take 2 or 3 hours so don’t expect the train to get to top speed yet. The first few hours are the most boring however traveling through the back parts of Bangkok is interesting as it gives an insight into life around Thailand’s train tracks.

Once the train gets to Nakhon Pathom, things get a little bit more interesting as the train rolls out of the city towards Ratcha Buri, the point at which the train starts heading south towards Hat Yai. If you don’t already know, Thailand’s country side consists of rice paddy fields stretching as far as the eye can see often backed by limestone karst mountains jutting from the edge of the horizon as rivers flow from the Kaeng Krachan National Park into the picturesque Gulf of Thailand.

Back on board the train, it’s very limited on what you can do to pass the time as there is NO WIFI onboard. Here are some tips for the first stretch on the train from Bangkok to Hat Yai:

• Buy a Thailand sim card to stay connected with 4G. Click on the link to read my article about the best prepaid sim card for Thailand.
• Eat as much food as possible as there are always vendors walking back and forth with meals. There will also be vendors at train stations along the way so be prepared so have your THB ready to go! When you buy food at a station, the vendor will pass the meal through the window which is pretty cool and what is even better is that the meals are hot and come with utensils. 
• Drink as little as possible! The toilets are nothing to be proud of so if you can I would advise holding it until the train arrives at Hat Yai.
• At the front and back of each carriage, doors are open allowing you to get a touch of fresh air however be careful you don’t lose your hat or your head. It can get windy!

If the train is running on time, expect to be in Hua Hin around 6:30 pm. If you’re lucky you catch the sunset in the train, quite a treat as this part of Thailand is pretty spectacular. Hua Hin is a coastal town backed onto stunning National Parks and this is another reason why you’ll want a lower berth when booking your train ticket from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.

As the train heads on into the night, the cabin starts to transform into a sleeping area but don’t expect to have your bed made straight away as there are a damn lot to make on the train. Once the beds are made, you’ll finally get some privacy with your own curtain and your own window!

I must say the beds are quite comfortable and warm but there’s a good chance you will not need blankets as it’s warm all year round in Thailand and for the pillows, don’t expect too much as they are thin and hard. With the curtains closed, keep the window open and watch the world go by. If you’re lucky it will be a clear night, sky dazzling with stars as a distant thunderstorm flashes away. 

Quick tip: make sure you close the train window overnight as grass seeds, spiders and insects can land on you whilst sleeping. I woke up the following morning covered from head to toe because I wanted to cool down throughout the night… bad idea!

Around sunrise the train ride from Bangkok to Hat Yai is almost over. At the dawn of day it is only around 1-2 hours until Hat Yai. One of the good things about sleeping in first or second class is you can stay in bed right up until the train arrives at the train station which will be around 7.00 am in the morning. 

On disembarking from the overnight train from Bangkok to Hat Yai, it’s simple to exit the station as you can follow the crowd to the large building on the left hand side of the train or exit through the unused carpark.

Layover in Hat Yai

I am not a fan of layovers as I just want to get to my destination so I had to hold my horses and chill out for almost 5 hours in Hat Yai before catching the second part of the train journey from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur. 

Hat Yai is a strange city with its oddly designed buildings, run-down shop fronts and one way streets however the city has done wonders to zap some life into the place with vast amounts of effort gone into painting buildings in an assortment of colours.

Hat Yai is perched on the U-Ta Phao River fed by the Songkhla Lake to the north-east making it an ideal place to sit by the cooling river to pass the time or opt for the Toei River. Hat Yai is only a small city however one thing in common with places like Bangkok is the amount of shopping malls it has but there is a downside, most malls in Hat Yai will not open till 10.00 am, leaving you to walk the streets of the city with no real place to go. 

I passed quite a bit of time here by having breakfast and lunch while watching a few episodes of The Grand Tour and there will be a few of you saying “why are you on your phone when you could be out exploring the city”, but you will find out yourself… there aren’t many things to do in Hat Yai.

The Bus from Hat Yai to Kuala Lumpur

The 2 nd part of the overland journey begins in Hat Yai and depending on which company you are travelling with, buses will depart from different locations in Hat Yai but mostly around 12.00 pm or 1.00 pm. 

Buses that travel interstate or to another country or any long distant are generally super comfortable when traveling in Thailand or Malaysia. I got a VIP bus with reclining seats, air conditioning, USB outlets and onboard WIFI. The only thing that wasn’t on board the bus was a toilet, which apparently is illegal in Malaysia.

The first part of the bus drive from Hat Yai to Kuala Lumpur is quite slow and boring as the bus makes its way past border towns. Remember to have your passport on you at all times as the bus will be crossing the Thai-Malaysian border within the first hour of the journey so don’t get too settled in as you’ll have to get off the bus to clear immigration and security before boarding once again.

Crossing the border into Malaysia is super easy and for most passport holders you do not require a visa however in some instances, requirements state that you need to have a booked flight or mode of transport out of Malaysia before entering the country. Check before your trip.

Malaysian roads are mostly in great conditions and really well maintained so the ride will be basically bump free which is a plus compared to the train from Bangkok to Hat Yai. From the border town of Bukit Kayu Hitam the bus travels on the AH2 highway all the way to Penang, a largely popular seaside destination which is definitely a place I will be visiting when traveling to Malaysia next time.

One of the things that you will notice while on the 9 hour bus from Hat Yai to Kuala Lumpur is the amount of Palm Oil Plantations and how far they stretch. Palm oil trees require vast amounts of space to grow therefore to do so, intensive logging of rainforests all over Malaysia and Borneo has taken place to the point where the Orangutang is now critically endangered and rainforests now lie on the brink of total destruction. Palm oil is used in most foods like crisps, chocolates, beverages as an additive.

The bus continues south along the AH2 to Perak past Mount Yong Belar, a spectacular 2,183 metre mountain and one of the highest in Malaysia. You don’t want to fall asleep as there are sections of trip where vast limestone karst mountains extrude from the lush valley floors. 

On dark, some 9 hours into the bus drive from Hat Yai the lights of Kuala Lumpur become visible for the first time. One of the buildings you will see will be the iconic Petronas Towers piercing its way into the lowly clouds of Kuala Lumpur. The Petronas Towers rise some 451 metres above the city floor and seeing it at night is one of the most incredible things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

Arriving in Kuala Lumpur

After a solid 10 hours on the bus and thank god the seats are comfortable and the roads are smooth, the bus arrives at Terminal Bersepadu Selatan or TBS for short. I was the only passenger to disembark from the bus that night as the rest of the passengers stayed a board and headed to Singapore so be sure to get all of your belongings as there’s a very slim chance that you will never see that bus again.

Once at TBS get an Uber into the city which is still about 20 minutes away. You can get a train which is vastly cheaper but by the time the bus gets into the city, most trains stop operating. If you don’t have any currency, there are a few ATM’s located inside the TBS building. Unfortunately the currency exchange desk closes a few hours prior to the bus arriving at the terminal, one of the downsides arriving late at night.

The whole 36 hours of being stuck on a bus and train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur has its ups and downs but it really isn’t that bad. If you were to catch a plane from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur it would be super boing as you would spend most of the time in a terminal, sitting on the plane possibly the aisle seat then arriving in a new country with no real story to tell. 

It cost me $55 USD for the bus and train combined as for the plane ticket it would have cost me $75 USD and that would have allowed me to only have a 5 KG carryon bag! So taking the plane is surely more expensive than getting a train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur. 

Prices for the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur or vice versa are pretty fixed, but click the search button below to get up to date prices.

By far the best part of this journey is the train section and if you can afford a few extra dollars I highly recommend booking a lower berth in 2 nd class even better, a first class lower berth. If you are on a super strict budget, the overnighter in 3 rd class will be rough but you can make up for lost sleep on the reclining seats on the bus to Kuala Lumpur.

I hope the above tips for taking the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur were helpful for your upcoming Thailand trip. This blog was written with the help of my friend Calumn Hockey an avid travel photographer who also took all the photos for this article.

Check out more of his work on  Instagram @calumnhockey . Calumn and I met on our trip to Nepal where we did the Langtang Valley trek  together.

In case you have any questions don't hesitate to send me a message on my Instagram account  @traveltomtom . In total I have been to Thailand more than 20 times as of December 2023, so Im sure I can help you out.

I also wrote an island hopping Thailand guide , island hopping itineraries , a Koh Tao travel guide , top things to do in Bangkok and almost 50 more Thailand travel blogs .

Enjoy the pictures and wanderlust vibes on my Instagram as Im trying to travel to every country in the world.

Find here my  best travel adventures from around the world  or when interested in  how to earn money from a travel blog or how I became a professional travel blogger then click on the links to read my story.

Enjoy your trip to Bangkok!

Some links in this article about the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using the outgoing links I’ll earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at no extra cost to you, but I have the duty to inform you. Thank you for your understanding!

• kuala lumpur
• train travel
• bangkok to kuala lumpur by train

Xperience Team

29 May 2024 - 5 min read

The Ultimate Guide on How to Get to Phuket from Krabi

Phuket and Krabi are two popular tourist destinations in Thailand, separated by the Andaman Sea, with a distance of 160 kilometers by land. Traveling between Krabi and Phuket is relatively straightforward, with several options catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you are starting your journey from the charming coastal town of Krabi or the bustling island of Phuket, you are in for a scenic and exciting adventure. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling from Krabi to Phuket.

Travel Options

1. From Krabi to Phuket by Ferry/Speedboat

If you prefer to travel by sea and savor the ocean breeze, taking a ferry is an excellent choice that combines land and sea travel, offering a unique perspective of the region. The duration of the ferry trip varies, with the quickest journey taking 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the slowest can extend up to 7 hours with stops. Costs range from 700 to 1,500 THB (28-48 USD). Ferries depart from various points in Krabi, including Klong Jilad Pier, Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Chaofar Pier, and they typically arrive at either Bang Rong Pier or Rassada Pier in Phuket. With approximately eight ferries running per day across four travel operators, this option provides both flexibility and a scenic journey.

Phuket and Phi Phi Island Ferry by Phi Phi Cruiser

When traveling between Krabi and Phuket by water, you have the option of choosing between ferries and speedboats.

Ferries, being larger, slower, and more affordable, are an excellent choice for those prone to motion sickness or traveling during the rainy season (June to October) due to their stability. One notable ferry operator is the Ao Nang Princess Ferry, which departs from Nopparat Thara Pier and the Floating Pier in East Railay. This operator offers two trips daily, providing a reliable and scenic way to travel between Krabi and Phuket.

Speedboats are faster but more expensive. They are ideal for travelers who prefer a quick journey and do not mind paying a premium for speed and convenience. Keep in mind that speedboats are less suitable for those prone to motion sickness.

Arrival Ports in Phuket

When traveling from Krabi to Phuket by ferry or speedboat, you'll arrive at one of two primary ports in Phuket: Rassada Pier or Bang Rong Pier. Each port caters to different areas of the island and offers various options for onward travel.

2. From Krabi to Phuket by Bus

Traveling from Krabi to Phuket by bus stands out as one of the most cost-effective options, offering both convenience and comfort while providing travelers with scenic views of the Thai countryside. With a duration of approximately 3 to 4 hours, bus fares range from around 200 to 300 THB (6-10 USD). Departing from Krabi Bus Terminal, situated just outside Krabi Town, buses ensure easy access for passengers. Upon arrival, buses usually reach Phuket Bus Terminal 2, located a few kilometers away from Phuket Town center, facilitating onward journeys for travelers exploring the vibrant island.

Phuket Airport Shuttle Bus to Phuket Old Town

When opting for bus travel from Krabi to Phuket, travelers can choose between two main companies: Good Luck Lanta Tour and Minibus 1996. Good Luck Lanta Tour departs from Krabi Bus Terminal, conveniently located about 10 minutes from Krabi town, and arrives at Phuket Bus Terminal 1. From there, passengers can easily access a direct songthaew to Patong for approximately 60 THB (US$1.60). On the other hand, Minibus 1996 also departs from Krabi Bus Terminal and terminates at Phuket Bus Terminal 2. Upon arrival at Terminal 2, travelers can take a pink songthaew to Terminal 1 for about 15 THB (US$0.40), followed by a direct songthaew to Patong. These options offer convenient and affordable connections, ensuring a smooth journey between the two destinations.

4. From Krabi to Phuket by Taxi or Car

If convenience and flexibility are your top priorities, then opting for a private taxi or car rental is the ideal choice when traveling from Krabi to Phuket. This mode of transportation enables you to travel at your own pace and make personalized stops along the way, ensuring a comfortable and tailored journey. With a duration of approximately 2 to 3 hours, the cost typically ranges from around 2,500 to 4,000 THB (80-130 USD). Departing directly from your accommodation in Krabi, these private services offer a seamless transfer to your desired destination in Phuket, providing utmost convenience and ease for travelers.

For travelers seeking reliability and convenience when journeying from Krabi to Phuket or other destinations, Ground Business and Andaman Taxis stand out as reputable transportation providers. These companies offer chartered minivans capable of accommodating up to 9 passengers, providing a comfortable and private travel option. While the rates for these chartered minivans range from THB 3500 to THB 4400, they offer the advantage of direct and efficient transportation, particularly for larger groups. While this mode of travel may incur higher costs compared to bus trips, it presents a more affordable option than boat journeys and significantly reduces travel time. This makes chartered minivans an attractive choice for travelers prioritizing convenience and efficiency, especially when traveling with a group.

5. From Krabi to Phuket by Van

Traveling by van presents an affordable and frequently available option for those journeying between Krabi and Phuket. With costs starting at $11 per person and a travel time ranging from 2½ to 4 hours, it offers over 50 departures daily along with the convenience of hotel pick-up services. However, potential delays may arise due to frequent stops to pick up passengers, a factor to consider for travelers prioritizing time efficiency. Shared minivans, in particular, provide more frequent trips compared to buses, with fares starting from 260 THB (US$7.10) and a travel time of approximately 3.5 hours. Various minivan options include Phuket Krabi Transport departing from Krabi Bus Terminal, and Krabi Sea Pearl offering hotel pick-ups in both Krabi Town and Ao Nang, all culminating at Phuket Bus Terminal 1 or 2. It's important to note that due to limited space, only small pieces of luggage are permitted on minivans, making it essential for travelers to plan accordingly.

6. From Krabi to Phuket by Plane

Although both Phuket and Krabi boast airports, travelers should note that there are no direct flights connecting the two destinations. Opting for air travel involves a layover in Bangkok, rendering it a less efficient choice despite its speed and comfort. Flight duration typically spans approximately 1 hour, with additional transfer times, resulting in a total travel time of 3 to 6 hours. Costs range from 1,000 to 3,000 THB ($81 to $331), varying depending on factors such as airline and booking time. While air travel offers the advantage of rapid transit and the comfort of modern amenities, it comes with drawbacks, including the need for transfers, elevated costs compared to alternative modes of transport like buses and ferries, making it more suitable for travelers who prioritize air travel despite its longer duration and higher expense.

Flight to Krabi

Thai VietJet Air

Start from THB 400.71

Bangkok (BKK) to Krabi (KBV)

Wed, 12 Jun 2024

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Start from THB 905.69

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Krabi (KBV)

Mon, 24 Jun 2024

Thai Lion Air

Start from THB 1,019.88

Bangkok (DMK) to Krabi (KBV)

Wed, 19 Jun 2024

Traveling from Krabi to Phuket is an adventure in itself, offering a glimpse of Thailand’s stunning landscapes and diverse travel experiences. Whether you choose the scenic bus ride, the leisurely ferry trip, the comfortable private taxi, or the swift flight, each option has its own charm and excitement.

Ready to embark on your Phuket journey? Book your activities, flight , and hotel through the Traveloka App for the best deals and convenience. Start planning today and immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of Phuket. Adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories await you!

Payment Partners

About Traveloka

• How to Book
• Help Center

Follow us on

• Airport Transport
• ProductItems.cruises-search
• Traveloka Affiliate
• Privacy Notice
• Terms & Conditions
• Register Your Accommodation
• Register Your Experience Business
• Traveloka Press Room
• Vulnerability Disclosure Program

Download Traveloka App