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KL to Thailand by Train & Bus
There is no direct KL–Bangkok train, but the overland trip is easy: the ETS takes you to the border at Padang Besar, then Thai trains continue to Hat Yai and Bangkok.
🔗 Official sites: Thailand TDAC (official)
By train
- No direct KL-Bangkok train runs. Take the ETS to Padang Besar, then a Thai SRT shuttle train (3rd class) to Hat Yai, or the International Express sleeper (trains 45/46) from Padang Besar to Bangkok overnight. Seat61 page updated 1 Oct 2026.
- ETS KL Sentral-Padang Besar takes about 4h50-5h21 and runs about 8 trips a day (2026).
- KTMB runs seasonal MySawasdee trains to Hat Yai Junction.
By bus
- Buses KL-Hat Yai take about 8-9 hours and cost about US$16-25. Operators include Sri Maju, City Express, Alisan and Suasana Tony.
Before you cross
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): all non-Thai travellers must file it online within 72 hours before arrival, including at land borders. Use tdac.immigration.go.th, and file before reaching the border.
Route map
Starting from Cormar Suites
Start at KL Sentral, about 10–15 minutes from Cormar Suites by Grab or Monorail. Book the ETS on KTMB’s KITS site.
Staying in central KL makes all of this easy. Cormar Suites has spacious serviced apartments with kitchens, Parry Road Café downstairs, and a rooftop infinity pool. Book direct for our best available rate.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct train from KL to Bangkok?
No. Take the ETS to Padang Besar, then a Thai train to Hat Yai or the overnight sleeper to Bangkok.
Do I need the TDAC for Thailand?
Yes. All non-Thai travellers must file the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online within 72 hours before arrival, including at land borders.
Sources
Checked on 11 October 2026. Fares, timetables and services change, so always confirm on the official site before you travel.