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 an easy decision for us. Besides, we had been flying twice during the past two days and was 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 had 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 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. They also offer other meals 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 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 close to Butterworth station and is cheap at about RM1.20 per adult. From the Penang side, there are taxis and also a bus – the Rapid Penang website provides details of all bus travel in Penang.
For bus travel in Penang, also consult the 12go.Asia site or BusBud.
We are hoping to visit Kuala Lumpur this year! This will be so helpful!
Bummer that there was no where to charge your devices, it seems like batteries never last as long as they say they will! More opportunities for staring out the window I guess 🙂
I love traveling by train. You get to see the countryside and it a lot more relaxed than air travel. When I lived in Europe many years ago I took the train all the time.
I love train travel too. Sounds like a great deal and totally worth the scenic ride!
It definitely was a lovely experience!
I like the fact that one can do almost anything while traveling on a train.
I am sure they will soon change that – it almost becomes essential these days.
Glad it would help. Would love to read about your experiences there.
I’ll take the train next time! For the best view going to Butterworth, which side of the train do you recommend?
Sutee, it really doesn’t matter which side of the train you sit at – the views are stunning from both sides!
I love train travel and this journey seems awesome! Did you discover some hidden gems along the road?
Unfortunately, it was a train from late at night till early the next morning, so sightseeing was a bit limited!
I love train travel too. nice article. Thank you for posting it
Glad you enjoyed it!
That is one good thing about Asia. Once you are there it is so cheap to get around, even to other countries 🙂 I love train travel too.
Asia is such a perfect destination for travellers of all levels of experience!