Ipoh – General Information about the Destination
Ipoh is the capital city of Perak state in northwestern Peninsular Malaysia. Situated on the banks of the Kinta River, it was founded in the 1890s as a tin mining town. Ipoh is renowned for its colonial architecture, earning it the nickname “City of Palaces” in reference to the many elegant mansions and government buildings. Key landmarks include the Railway Station, City Town Hall, and the Sam Poh Tong cave temple.
The city also offers cultural attractions like the Perak Museum and performing arts center. Ipoh is emerging as a food destination, famous for local specialties like Ipoh white coffee, beansprouts chicken, nga choy kai, and kai see hor fun noodles. The city provides convenient access to nearby highlights like Kellie’s Castle, Cameron Highlands, and Belum Rainforest. With a rich colonial-era heritage combined with exciting cuisine and natural beauty, Ipoh is an engaging historic and cultural destination.
Information about the Route (Butterworth – Ipoh)
If you’re looking to travel from Butterworth to Ipoh by train, you have two options to choose from: the ETS train and the KTM Komuter train.
You can also travel by bus. Be sure to check out the alternative options for trains at the end of this article.
Butterworth to Ipoh by ETS Train
ETS trains from Butterworth to Ipoh provide two classes: Gold, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, and Platinum, which is slightly faster at about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Ticket prices (harga tiket Butterworth ke Ipoh) start from RM30.00 for Gold and RM38.00 for Platinum. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station. The route includes stops at Bukit Mertajam, Nibong Tebal, Parit Buntar, Bagan Serai, Taiping, Padang Rengas, Kuala Kangsar, and Sungai Siput.
Schedule of ETS Trains: Butterworth – Ipoh
(Jadual ETS Butterworth ke Ipoh)
Trains from Butterworth to Ipoh run six times a day. The first train of the day leaves at 5:15 in the morning, and the last one departs at 18:45 in the evening.
Download the current schedule.
DownloadButterworth to Ipoh by KTM Komuter
The rail trip connecting Butterworth to Ipoh traverses twelve stations on the Butterworth – Ipoh railway line. Regardless of whether it’s a weekday or weekend, the duration for this journey remains at 2 hours.
For those interested in taking this trip, tickets can be purchased on the spot at any of the stations, since KTM Komuter services do not offer the option for advance ticket booking.
Schedule of KTM Komuter Butterworth – Ipoh
(Jadual Komuter Butterworth ke Ipoh)
Trains operating from Butterworth to Ipoh are scheduled ten times daily, including both weekdays and weekends. The day’s first train sets off at 5:30 AM, while the final departure is at 7:10 PM.
Download the current schedule.
DownloadDeparture Point – Butterworth Railway Station
Butterworth Railway Station in Penang, Malaysia, is located close to the ferry terminal and bus station for easy access to George Town. This station serves as a hub for the KTM Komuter line to Padang Besar and connects to Thailand’s railway network. It is also a stop on the West Coast Railway Line for KTM Intercity and ETS services between Gemas and Butterworth.
The station features an indoor waiting area and restrooms, with a convenience store available for passengers. However, there are no restaurants or luggage storage services. Ticket purchase is available at the station’s second-floor ticket counters.
See also: ETS Train from Ipoh to Butterworth
Butterworth Station
Stesen Keretapi Butterworth,
Jalan Bagan Dalam,12000 Butterworth,
Pulau Pinang
Contact number: 04-3312796
Arrival Point – Ipoh Railway Station
The Ipoh railway station is located in the southwestern part of Ipoh, close to the city’s main post office, the court complex, and the town hall. It’s within walking distance from the bus station, about 10 minutes away.
This station is the main railway terminal for the state of Perak and is managed by Keretapi Tanah Melayu. It provides electric train services (ETS) for passengers and also handles the movement of goods trains. There are nine tracks at the station, with four electrified for use. Out of these, three tracks are dedicated to the ETS. The station is a key point for travelers and for the transportation of freight.
Ipoh Station
Stesen Keretapi Ipoh,
Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab
30000 Ipoh, Perak 30100
Contact number: 05-2547987
Alternative – Buses from Butterworth to Ipoh
If you’re contemplating a bus trip from Butterworth to Ipoh, the journey typically spans between 2 to 3 hours and 30 minutes, although travel time can vary based on traffic conditions.
It’s worth noting that Malaysian buses don’t have onboard toilets due to legal regulations. However, travelers need not worry about discomfort, as there is a scheduled restroom break at a gas station along the route.
Check the current bus schedule.
Check on 12go.comAbout ETS
The Electric Train Service (ETS) is Malaysia’s fastest meter-gauge train, reaching speeds up to 140 km/h on the West Coast Line from Gemas to the Malaysia-Thai border. It offers three classes: Platinum, Gold, and Silver, with Platinum being the quickest and most expensive. Tickets are available online, at stations, or through agents, with amenities like air conditioning and power outlets across all classes.
ETS trains feature passenger-friendly facilities such as a prayer room and a bistro in Coach C, luggage racks in Coaches A and F, and special seating for the elderly and disabled in Coach D, near a handicap-accessible washroom. LCD screens throughout provide travel information, enhancing the travel experience.
About Komuter
KTM Komuter is a commuter rail service in Malaysia, serving Kuala Lumpur and the surrounding Klang Valley since 1995, and extending to the northern states in 2015. It’s known for connecting suburban areas to the city, facilitating easy access to Kuala Lumpur, including routes like KTM Klang to KL Sentral.
Prioritizing passenger comfort and safety, KTM Komuter offers dedicated Ladies’ Coaches and reserved seating at KL Sentral for female passengers, enhancing their security and convenience. The service also caters to the needs of the elderly and disabled with priority seating, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers. Security measures include continuous CCTV surveillance on trains for added safety. Furthermore, KTM Komuter supports eco-friendly transportation by providing bike racks on trains, making it easier for cyclists to commute with their bicycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get from Butterworth to Ipoh?
The fastest way to travel from Butterworth to Ipoh depends on the mode of transportation. By car, it typically takes from 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours and 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the route chosen. Alternatively, taking the ETS (Electric Train Service) train usually ranges from 1 hour and 40 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
How far is it from Butterworth to Ipoh?
The distance from Butterworth to Ipoh is approximately 140 to 155 kilometers by car, depending on the specific route taken. This distance may vary slightly based on the exact starting and ending points within Butterworth and Ipoh.
Are there any trains that travel directly from Butterworth to Ipoh?
Yes, the ETS Southbound Train and KTM Utara offer a direct train connection from Butterworth to Ipoh.