When we wanted to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, there were flights available, and they were not too expensive either. The flight from Kuala Lumpur Airport to Penang International Airport only takes an hour and cost on average about $75 and upwards. The train journey takes about 6 hours and only cost about $15 for a premier class seat! Take into consideration the fact that we could walk around, will have spacious and comfy seats that could turn 360 degrees and this was a no-brainer for us. Besides we had been flying twice during the past two days and was a bit tired of planes.
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I love taking trains when I travel. There is something magical about sitting back and watching the scenery passing by. Train travel is a bit slower than flying though but has other advantages that flying does not have. We did not know what train travel in Malaysia would be like, but considering the low price we thought it deserved a try.
So, what is train travel in Malaysia like?
Our journey to Butterworth started at the KL Sentral. We had a bit of time to kill and decided to have lunch there while we wait. There were quite a few restaurants available, mostly fast foods such as Burger King and KFC. There were also a small little convenience shop and several bookstores. Near the waiting area there was a small flea market selling toys and clothes.
Train travel in Malaysia seems quite popular and we could perfectly understand this considering how cost-effective it seemed.
Train travel in Malaysia: The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth was an enjoyable one. Although hubby and I had seats across from each other, the seats could turn around so we could still enjoy each other’s company. Although not a luxury train by western standards, we were very comfortable. My only complaint would be that there was no wifi available and also no power points! My power bank came in useful at this point!
Scenery along the way
The scenery alongside the track was lush and green.
Malaysia looked like quite a big country with lots of farmable lands.
During our train trip, we received free banana bread and bottled water. The banana bread was lovely and moist and hit the spot right away. Other meals are also offered such as burgers and sandwiches – a trolly came past us twice during the trip.
We arrived in Butterworth around 22:00. By this time it was dark, and we could not see much of Butterworth Station itself, but it appeared quite small.
From Butterworth Station taxis are easily available, they wait right outside the station. Alternatively, there is a ferry from Butterworth to Penang, it leaves not far from Butterworth station and is quite cheap at about RM1.20 per adult. From the Penang side, there are taxis and also a bus (Bus 101 that goes all the way to Batu Ferringhi).
