There are 1 way(s) to get from Kuala Lumpur to Perlis
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
For the ETS train, especially during peak seasons or holidays, booking your tickets online several days or weeks ahead is highly recommended. This ensures you get your preferred seat and avoid sold-out trains, especially for Business Class.
If you opt for the bus, look for 'VIP' or 'Executive' coaches. They offer wider seats, more legroom, and often better amenities than standard buses, making the 6-hour journey much more pleasant for a small price difference.
The ETS train departs from KL Sentral. Make sure you factor in travel time to KL Sentral, which is easily accessible by LRT, Monorail, or taxi from most parts of Kuala Lumpur.
While the journey to Perlis isn't exceptionally long, some bus operators offer late-night or early-morning departures. If you prefer to travel while you sleep, check for these schedules, but be mindful of arrival times in Perlis.
Use trusted online platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn to compare bus and train options side-by-side. They provide clear comparisons of price, duration, and operator reliability, allowing you to book with instant confirmation.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Malaysia's transport options can feel like a puzzle, especially when planning your journey from Kuala Lumpur to Perlis. You want to know if a quick coach, an ETS train, or perhaps even a flight is your best bet, along with real durations and whether overnight options exist. For this route, the good news is that both comfortable express coaches and efficient ETS trains are available, offering direct and reliable ways to reach your destination without unnecessary hassle.
From Kuala Lumpur, your primary option for reaching Perlis (specifically Kangar or Arau, which are the main hubs) is typically by express bus. Services like those from Transnasional or Kagar Jaya Express provide a comfortable ride, taking approximately 6 hours and costing around €14. These coaches depart frequently from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan), making it a straightforward choice. Alternatively, the ETS train offers a faster and often more comfortable experience, especially if you opt for Business Class, taking you to Arau which is a gateway to Perlis, usually in around 5 hours. While potentially a bit pricier, the ETS train is a great way to avoid road traffic.
The challenge of overlapping timetables and choosing the right mode of transport is precisely what we're addressing. For your trip from Kuala Lumpur to Perlis, you won't encounter ferries or flights as primary options; it's a clear choice between the express bus and the ETS train. By understanding these two main alternatives, you can easily compare their prices, durations, and comfort levels, ensuring you select the option that best fits your travel style and schedule. This direct approach helps you avoid wasting time and ensures a smooth journey.
Frequently asked questions — Kuala Lumpur → Perlis
For comfort and speed, the ETS train is generally better, taking around 5 hours to Arau. It's often more expensive (€20-€40) but offers a smoother ride. Express coaches are more budget-friendly (around €14) and take about 6 hours. The 'best' option depends on your priority: comfort/speed (ETS) or budget (coach).
By express coach, the journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kangar/Arau typically takes about 6 hours, including a short rest stop. The ETS train to Arau is faster, usually completing the trip in approximately 5 hours. Always factor in potential delays, especially for bus travel during peak traffic or festive periods.
Bus tickets typically cost around €14-€20, while ETS train tickets range from €20-€40, depending on the class. Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for ETS trains and VIP coaches. This secures your seat and avoids last-minute stress, particularly during weekends or public holidays.
Yes, some express coach operators offer late-night departures that arrive in Perlis early in the morning. These can be convenient if you want to save on accommodation or maximize your daytime activities. Always verify the exact departure and arrival times with the specific bus operator before booking.
✨ Why visit Perlis?
- ✓ Explore Wang Kelian, a former cross-border market, and its scenic limestone hills.
- ✓ Visit Padang Besar, a bustling border town, for duty-free shopping and local food.
- ✓ Discover the Perlis State Park with its intricate cave systems like Gua Kelam.
- ✓ Enjoy local delicacies and fresh seafood in Kuala Perlis, a charming fishing town.
- ✓ Hike or cycle through the scenic Chuping Sugar Cane Plantation, the largest in Malaysia.
☀️ When to visit Perlis?
CLIMAT TROPICAL HUMIDE
December to April — dry season, offering comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
What to do in Perlis?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Perlis?
For independent travelers, Perlis is ideal for a short but enriching stopover of 2-3 days to explore caves, observe wildlife, and enjoy local markets. A longer stay (up to 5 days) allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration of its natural parks. Focus on efficient transit and pre-booking if traveling during peak season.
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