Kuala Lumpur Transport

The local transport system in KL is extensive, with three different rail services comprehensively covering most parts of the city. What can’t be reached by train, can be accessed by bus or taxi, which are also in plentiful supply. The wide choice of modes of transport makes getting about the city, easy, quick and hassle-free.

By Light Rail (LRT)

This service is KL’s easiest way to get about the city, with trains running frequently and tickets being fairly inexpensive. There are three lines available: Star LRT Sentual Timur-Sri Petaling Line; Star LRT Sentual Timur-Ampang Line; and the Putra LRT Line. Trains run every six to 10 minutes from 06:00 to midnight. Tickets can be bought at all stations prior to travel and are validated in the turnstiles before boarding the train.

By train

KL has three rail services: the Light Rail (LRT); KTM Komuter service and the Monorail (PRT). The KTM Komuter service is not of much use to tourists, as it mainly services routes to the city’s suburbs and is designed for commuters, with all lines stopping at KL Sentral. KTM Komuter trains run about every 15 to 20 minutes from 06:00 to 23:00.

The Monorail is of much more use to visitors, being the easiest way to make short hops around the city. Services run from 06:00 to 24:00, and trains travel from KL Sentral to Titiwangsa, stopping at Merdeka, Bukit Bingtang and Chow Kit along the way.

By bus

There are two primary bus companies operating services within the city: Intrakota and Cityliner. While not as easy to use as the train system, buses are comfortable and make a cheaper alternative. Bus routes usually originate at one of the city’s larger bus depots, such as Puduraya Bus Station or Klang Bus Station, both of which have helpful information booths that can assist you. The fare should be paid to the bus driver upon boarding; try to have the correct change ready.

Taxis

Taxis are easy to find in KL and can be flagged down on any corner.  It is common for a driver to drop you off in a convenient spot in relation to the traffic laws, so don’t be surprised if you don’t get door-to-door service. Fares increase between midnight and 06:00, while extra passengers and luggage are also subject to a surcharge. It is the law that taxis must use a meter, so if your driver refuses, simply get out and hail another cab.

From the airport

The most convenient and speedy way to access the city is via the KLIA Ekspres, a high-speed train that takes only 28 minutes to reach the city centre, stopping at KL Sentral. The KL Transit train is an alternative, taking slightly longer at 35 minutes. Alternative options include taking a taxi, which is very expensive and can take over 1 hour, while airport coaches run the route in roughly the same time, and are the cheapest option.