I've created an entire website about Thailand, but don't be fooled: I also love Thailand's southern neighbor. From underrated Kuala Lumpur to delicious Penang and unspoiled Borneo, Malaysia is a country many travelers overlook, but no one who visits ever forgets.

At the same time, it can be difficult to optimally integrate Malaysia into a Southeast Asia trip, especially with regard to Thailand. Whether Bangkok vs. Kuala Lumpur or other destinations – the trips to the respective countries should complement each other and not be repetitive.

Even more important is finding the best way to get from Thailand to Malaysia, and that isn't always a flight between the two capitals. Read on to learn about all your options.

Why you should continue your trip to Malaysia

If you're planning a trip from Thailand to Malaysia, congratulations: you belong to a relatively small minority. Most travelers head from Thailand to Cambodia or Vietnam, which makes perfect sense. Whether it's due to the overwhelming popularity of Angkor Wat or because foodies, after weeks of Thai cuisine, want to try the familiar dishes of Vietnam, Thailand's Indochinese neighbors are logical next stops on a Southeast Asian trip. Laos is also a good option.

What Malaysia lacks in major tourist attractions and world-famous cuisine, it makes up for in other ways. Apart from Kuala Lumpur and Penang, most destinations in Malaysia are relatively off the beaten track. You simply won't encounter the same tourist crowds in Borneo as in Siem Reap or Saigon. And while Malaysian cuisine (a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Muslim flavors) may be understated, it is all the more flavorful for it.

All routes from Thailand to Malaysia

Flight from Bangkok

There are several daily flights from both Bangkok airports to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), operated by full-service airlines like Thai Airways and Malaysia Airlines, as well as numerous low-cost carriers. Alternatively, you can fly from Bangkok (BKK or DMK) to Penang (PEN) if you wish to bypass Kuala Lumpur and instead enjoy an oyster omelet in the streets of colonial George Town.

Are you flying from the north?

Another option for traveling from Thailand to Malaysia? Not via Bangkok, but in the north of the country. AirAsia, for example, offers daily flights from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Kuala Lumpur if you're ending your Thailand trip there and don't want to fly back or change planes.

Are you flying from the south?

There are more flight options from southern Thailand to Kuala Lumpur, which makes sense: these destinations tend to be more popular with Malaysian travelers than those in northern Thailand. Specifically, it is possible to fly nonstop to Kuala Lumpur from Phuket (HKT), Krabi (KBV), and Hat Yai (HDY).

Take the train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur.

The bad news? The most luxurious way to travel from Thailand to Malaysia—the four-day train journey on Belmond's Eastern & Oriental Express—can cost up to US$10,000 per person, enough for a whole year of traveling through Southeast Asia. The good news? If luxury isn't a priority, you can reach the cities in less time using regional trains.

Take the ferry between Langkawi and Koh Lipe.

If, like me, you usually end your Thailand trips in the south, it makes sense to travel from your current island to Phuket or Krabi and then fly to Kuala Lumpur. However, if you are on Koh Lipe, you can take a ferry directly to the Malaysian island of Langkawi, from whose airport (LGK) you can also fly to Kuala Lumpur.

Is a trip to Malaysia worthwhile?

This blog is about Thailand, but I absolutely love Malaysia. My trip there in 2017 – my first longer and most comprehensive trip to date – was one of the best two weeks of my life. After three days in Kuala Lumpur and two days each in the Cameron Highlands and Penang, I explored off the beaten track, from the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu to the orangutan forests of Borneo.

What makes traveling between Thailand and Malaysia so particularly rewarding is the striking difference between the two countries, despite their proximity. While Bangkok is bustling and sometimes even taboo, Kuala Lumpur feels reserved and controlled, even though it's an impressive metropolis. Malaysia's beaches are generally rather understated compared to Thailand's exuberant beauty. And then, of course, there are the culinary differences I've already mentioned.

More frequently asked questions about visiting Malaysia after Thailand

Can I travel from Thailand to Malaysia?

Traveling from Thailand to Malaysia is straightforward, whether you take one of the many daily flights or travel overland or even by ship. The only potential issue is needing a visa but not having one. Therefore, please ensure you meet all entry requirements in advance.

How much does a trip from Thailand to Malaysia cost?

If you don't need a visa, travel costs from Thailand to Malaysia should be under US$100 per person. Higher costs may arise if you fly business class (or book at short notice) or travel on the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express instead of the regional train.

Is it possible to take a ferry from Thailand to Malaysia?

A ferry operates between the Thai island of Lipe and the Malaysian island of Langkawi. However, please note that you must first take a ferry from the Thai mainland to Lipe; from there, most travelers continue their journey by plane to Kuala Lumpur.

Conclusion

What's the best way to travel from Thailand to Malaysia? Some travelers simply end their Thailand trip, return to Bangkok, and then fly from one of the capital's two airports to Kuala Lumpur. Others travel overland or even by ferry between the tropical islands of Lipe and Langkawi, while still others fly to Malaysia from Thai airports like Chiang Mai and Phuket. Ultimately, the optimal travel method depends on your other travel plans. Do you need help planning your Southeast Asia trip? I'd be happy to take care of the planning for you!