There are various transport options for traveling between Malaysia and Thailand. These include plane, car, and train.

Trains and buses are cheaper and well-suited for longer journeys. A valid passport is required to enter Thailand. Travel is safe, and you can discover new dishes, culture, and beautiful places in Thailand.

This travel guide provides information on travel options from Malaysia to Thailand.

From Malaysia to Thailand by train

Trains are the most popular option for crossing the border between Malaysia and Thailand due to the efficiency of the KTM Electric Train Service (ETS). The trains run from Kuala Lumpur through Malaysia to Padang Besar station on the Thai border.

The train journey between Malaysia and Thailand has two main train stations as starting and ending points.

  • Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral): All trains heading to the Thai border depart from Kuala Lumpur Sentral. KL Sentral is Kuala Lumpur's main transport hub and offers an ETS train service to Padang Besar.
  • Butterworth (Penang): If you are traveling from Penang, you should depart from Butterworth station. It is well connected to the ETS network from Kuala Lumpur. You have the choice between ETS trains and the Komuter.
  • Padang Besar: Padang Besar is a border station in northern Malaysia. To leave Malaysia, you must get off the train at Padang Besar and complete immigration formalities. You can then transfer to a Thai train and continue your journey. Immigration formalities at Padang Besar take approximately 10 minutes. Trains run from the station between Hat Yai and Bangkok.

    • Discover the best accommodations in Thailand for a smooth holiday.

    Train routes and travel information

  • From Kuala Lumpur Sentral to Padang Besar: The train journey from Kuala Lumpur Sentral to Padang Besar takes 5 hours. The trains are air-conditioned, and you can choose between luxurious first-class and standard second-class seats.
  • From Padang Besar to Hat Yai: You can reach Hat Yai from Padang Besar by Thai train. The journey takes about 2 hours.
  • Padang Besar to Bangkok: The train service from Padang Besar to Bangkok operates only once a day. The train travels overnight from Padang Besar to Bangkok's main train station (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Bang Sue) and arrives the following morning. Long-distance trains no longer terminate at Hua Lamphong station.

    • The Padang Besar border crossing requires transfers and adherence to border controls. You must complete entry formalities and carry your passport (and visa, if applicable). Additionally, complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours of your arrival.

    With the Pro membership, you can also enjoy Thailand's best restaurants, sights and relaxation spots – all without breaking your budget.

    From Malaysia to Thailand by bus

    You can travel from Malaysia to Thailand by bus. It's a cheap and comfortable way to travel. Buses depart from various cities in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Hat Yai. Bus ticket prices range from 50 to 100 RM, depending on the route and bus company.

  • The main departure point for buses from Kuala Lumpur to Thailand is the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) bus station in Kuala Lumpur. From there, buses depart for various destinations in southern Thailand, including Hat Yai, Krabi, and Phuket.
  • All buses traveling from Penang to Hat Yai and beyond depart from Butterworth Station, which serves as the main border crossing for public transport.

    • Be sure to find out about the best time to travel to Thailand to ensure a stress-free and unforgettable trip.

    Getting to Thailand from Malaysia by plane

    If you want to travel quickly between Malaysia and Thailand, flying is recommended. A flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.

    The most important airports serving flight routes from Malaysia to Thailand include:

  • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA): The main international airport for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Thailand. From here you can reach numerous Thai cities such as Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.
  • Penang International Airport: From this airport you can reach Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand. AirAsia offers affordable flights with regular connections between Malaysia and Thailand.

    • Visit 12go.asia to check travel options from Malaysia to Thailand by plane.

    If you are planning a trip to Thailand, read all about the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for a smooth entry into Thailand!

    Driving between Thailand and Malaysia

    Thailand can also be reached by car via Malaysia. The distance from Kuala Lumpur to the Thai border is 500 kilometers (310 miles). The driving time is approximately 8 hours.

    The Sadao/Dannok border crossing serves as the main entry point for travelers. After entering Thailand, you can continue your journey by car, as the roads are well-maintained and you will find English signs along the way.

    The most important routes for car journeys between Malaysia and Thailand are:

  • The north-south expressway forms the main connection between Kuala Lumpur and Sadao. It includes stops in Ipoh and Alor Setar before reaching the border at Sadao.
  • Hat Yai is 40 kilometers from the border. This city serves as an important starting point for further exploration of Thailand.

    • There are many ways to travel from Malaysia to Thailand, including by train, bus, car, or plane. A train journey offers a high level of comfort, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenery and relax. Those who want to reach their destination quickly can fly. Traveling by car offers the freedom to explore both countries at your own pace.

    Visit 12go.asia to view the timetable for travel from Malaysia to Thailand.