Penang Train Connections 2026
Complete guide to ETS high-speed trains, KTMB booking, and Thai rail connections
Butterworth to KL Sentral
3h 45m - 4h 15m
RM 59
RM 79
8-10 daily
The ETS (Electric Train Service) is Malaysia's high-speed rail connecting Penang to Kuala Lumpur. Comfortable, scenic journey through the Malaysian countryside with WiFi and power outlets.
Book on KTMBETS Train Routes
High-speed rail connections from Butterworth
Butterworth to KL Sentral
ETS Gold / Platinum3h 45m - 4h 15m
8-10 trains daily
RM 59
RM 79
Stops: Ipoh, Taiping, direct options available
Butterworth to Ipoh
ETS Gold / Platinum1h 45m - 2h
10+ trains daily
RM 29
RM 40
Stops: Taiping, direct options
Butterworth to Padang Besar
KTM Komuter Utara (no ETS)~1h 50m
KTM Komuter Northern Sector (schedule updated 26 Feb 2026)
RM 11.40
Single class
Stops: Alor Setar, Arau
ETS no longer runs the Butterworth–Padang Besar branch — this leg is KTM Komuter Utara only. Tickets are sold same-day at the Butterworth counter. Padang Besar is the connection point for Thai trains to Hat Yai and Bangkok.
Butterworth to Taiping
ETS / Komuter45 min - 1h
12+ trains daily
RM 14
RM 19
Stops: Direct service
Train Classes
Choose your comfort level
ETS Platinum
RM 79 (to KL)
- •2+1 seating
- •More legroom
- •Complimentary snack
- •Priority boarding
- •Business class comfort
Best value for comfort
ETS Gold
RM 59 (to KL)
- •2+2 seating
- •Standard legroom
- •Power outlets
- •Air-conditioning
- •WiFi available
Most popular choice
ETS Silver
RM 45 (to KL)
- •2+2 seating
- •Basic comfort
- •Air-conditioning
- •Limited availability
Budget option
Komuter
RM 5-15
- •Local commuter trains
- •Frequent stops
- •Basic seating
- •No reservations
Short distances only
Butterworth Railway Station
Jalan Bagan Dalam, Butterworth
About the Station
Main railway station serving Penang. Located on the mainland, connected to Penang Island by ferry.
Facilities:
- ✓Ticketing counters (open 6am-10pm)
- ✓Waiting lounge (air-conditioned)
- ✓Restrooms
- ✓Small cafe/convenience store
- ✓ATM machines
- ✓Luggage storage (limited)
Connections
Getting from George Town
Take the ferry from Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay) to Butterworth Ferry Terminal (15-20 min, RM 1.40). Walk 200m to the train station.
Train to Thailand
Connect to Thai railways via Padang Besar
Border Crossing Note
To travel to Thailand by train, take the KTM Komuter Utara service from Butterworth to Padang Besar (border station) — the ETS no longer runs this branch. Clear Malaysian exit and Thai entry immigration, then board a Thai train to Hat Yai or Bangkok.
Padang Besar to Hat Yai
State Railway of Thailand (SRT)
1 hour
4-5 trains daily
THB 30-50 (~RM 4-7)
Immigration at Padang Besar. Thai trains are slower but very cheap.
Hat Yai to Bangkok
State Railway of Thailand (SRT)
14-16 hours
2-3 trains daily
THB 400-1,500 (~RM 50-190)
Overnight sleeper available. Book in advance for sleeper berths.
Booking Tips
How to secure your train tickets
Book in Advance
ETS trains are popular, especially weekends and holidays. Book 1-2 weeks ahead via KTMB website or app.
KTMB Online Booking
Use ktmb.com.my or KTMB MobTicket app. E-tickets accepted. Print or show on phone.
Arrive Early
Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Trains depart on time. Late boarding is not allowed.
Onboard Amenities
ETS trains have WiFi, power outlets, and a cafe car. Bring entertainment for longer journeys.
Schedule Overview
When trains depart from Butterworth
Early morning departures to KL
Best for day trips to KL
Mid-morning trains
Popular with tourists, book early
Afternoon services
Good for leisurely travel
Evening trains
Returns from KL, often busy
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the train station in Penang?
The main train station serving Penang is Butterworth Railway Station, located on the mainland. From George Town, take the ferry from Pengkalan Weld to Butterworth Ferry Terminal, then walk 200m to the train station.
How long is the train from Penang (Butterworth) to KL?
The ETS high-speed train from Butterworth to KL Sentral takes approximately 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes depending on the service (direct or with stops). It is the most scenic and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
How do I book KTMB train tickets?
Book online at ktmb.com.my or via the KTMB MobTicket app. Tickets can also be purchased at station counters. Online booking opens 60 days in advance. E-tickets are accepted - just show on your phone.
Can I take a train from Penang to Thailand?
Yes, but it requires a connection. Take a KTM Komuter Utara train from Butterworth to Padang Besar (border station, ~1h 50m — the ETS no longer runs this branch). Clear immigration, then take a Thai train to Hat Yai (1 hour) or Bangkok (14-16 hours overnight sleeper).
What is the difference between ETS Gold and Platinum?
ETS Platinum offers 2+1 seating with more legroom, complimentary snacks, and priority boarding for RM 79 to KL. ETS Gold has 2+2 seating with standard comfort for RM 59. Both have WiFi and power outlets.
How do I get from George Town to Butterworth train station?
Take the ferry from Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay) in George Town to Butterworth Ferry Terminal. The ferry takes 15-20 minutes and costs RM 1.40. Butterworth Railway Station is a 200m walk from the ferry terminal.
Explore More Transport Options
Trains not the right fit? Check out our other transport guides for Penang.