Kuala Lumpur: General Information about Destination
Kuala Lumpur is the capital and largest city in Malaysia. Often referred to as KL, it is located along the Klang and Gombak rivers and serves as the cultural, financial, and economic center of the country. Kuala Lumpur is known for its striking modern skyline, including the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, as well as British colonial landmarks like the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station.
The city offers an exciting mix of cultures and is popular for its diverse cuisines including Malay, Chinese, and Indian fare. Key attractions include the Batu Caves, a limestone hill featuring Hindu shrines and cave temples, and Merdeka Square, where Malaysia declared independence. Kuala Lumpur provides also easy access to the surrounding rainforests and highlands.
Information about the Route (Johor Bahru – Gemas – Kuala Lumpur)
The travel route from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur includes two stages:
Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) to Gemas by Intercity Ekspres Selatan (Northbound Line) or Ekspres Rakyat Timuran (Eastbound Line)
Gemas to Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral or Kuala Lumpur Station) by ETS (Northbound Line)
You can also travel by plane or bus. Be sure to check out the alternative options for trains at the end of this article.
Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) to Gemas
Trains from Johor Bahru to Gemas cover a distance of approximately 205 kilometers. Passengers have the option of taking either the ES Ekspres Selatan on the Northbound Train line or the ERT Ekspres Rakyat Timuran on the Eastbound Train line. The duration of the journey starts from 4 hours and 25 minutes.
The cost of a ticket for this trip is RM21.00, and passengers can purchase tickets either through the website or at the ticket counter at the station. The route includes several stations where the train will stop, including Kempas Baru, Kulai, Kluang, Segamat, and finally arriving in Gemas.
See also: KL to JB Train – How to Get to Johor Bahru by Train
Schedule of Train Johor Bahru – Gemas
(Jadual Intercity Johor Bahru ke Gemas)
The Intercity train service from Johor Bahru to Gemas operates four times a day. The first train of the day departs early at 08:30, which is suitable for those looking to start their journey in the morning. The last train for the day leaves at 20:25, catering to passengers who prefer to travel later in the evening.
Download the current schedule.
DownloadGemas to KL by ETS Train
The ETS trains operating from Gemas to KL Sentral run on the Northbound Train line and are classified as Gold service. The shortest travel time for the Gold class is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.
The cost of a ticket starts from RM29.00. Passengers have the choice to purchase their tickets either online or at the ticket counter at the station, offering convenience for different planning needs.
The train stops at several stations along the way, including Batang Melaka, Pulau Sebang, Seremban, Kajang, Bandar Tasek Selatan, and finally arrives at KL Sentral and Kuala Lumpur Stations.
See also: How to Get from Seremban to Penang by Train and Ferry
Schedule of ETS Trains Gemas – KL
(Jadual ETS Gemas ke KL)
Trains from Gemas to Kuala Lumpur run twice daily. The first train leaves at 08:05, and the second train departs at 15:20.
Download the current schedule.
DownloadSchedule and Ticket Cost
The total cost of tickets from Johor Bahru to KL should not exceed 50 – 60 MYR. The duration of the journey will vary depending on the chosen option, with the best option taking approximately 7 hours.
The best option:
Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) – Gemas Departure: 08:30, Arrival: 13:14.
Gemas – KL Sentral Departure: 15:20, Arrival: 18:00.
Alternatives – Buses and Flights from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur
To travel from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur, you have two additional transportation options at your disposal:
Buses from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur
Travelers contemplating a bus journey from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur can board a bus at Larkin Bus Terminal in Johor Bahru, heading towards TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) in Kuala Lumpur. The duration of this bus trip typically ranges from about 4 hours and 30 minutes to 8 hours and 30 minutes, with the possibility of longer travel times due to traffic conditions.
It’s essential to note that Malaysian buses do not feature onboard toilets due to legal regulations. However, passengers can rest assured as there is a scheduled restroom stop at a gas station along the route.
Check the current bus schedule.
Check on 12go.comFlights from JHB Johor Bahru Airport to Kuala Lumpur KUL Airport
Travelers have the option to take a direct flight from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur, with airlines such as Air Asia, Malindo Air, and Malaysia Airlines offering this convenient route. The flight departs from Johor Bahru Airport (JHB) and lands at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). The direct flight typically lasts around 50 minutes.
Check the current flight schedule.
Check on 12go.comFrequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get from Johor Bahru to KL?
The fastest way to get from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur is by air, with the flight taking about 1 hour. This is much faster compared to traveling by land. There are several airlines with daily flights between the two cities, including choices that are economical due to low-cost carriers.
How far is it from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur?
The distance from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur is approximately 330 kilometers by road. When driving, the journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, typically along the North-South Expressway, which is the most straightforward route connecting the two cities.
Is there a direct train from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur?
There is no direct train service from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur. To make this journey by train, passengers must first take the Ekspres Selatan Northbound Line or Ekspres Rakyat Timuran on the Eastbound Train line from Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) to Gemas. Once in Gemas, travelers will need to transfer to the ETS (Electric Train Service) on the northbound line to reach either KL Sentral or Kuala Lumpur Station.
What is the best way to travel from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur?
The best way to travel from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur depends on what you value most—speed, comfort, or cost.
If getting to Kuala Lumpur quickly is your main concern, then flying is the fastest option. Flights take about an hour and offer a swift journey compared to land travel, though they may be more expensive.
For those who prefer to enjoy the journey and aren’t in a hurry, taking a train is a great choice. It’s a longer trip, typically around 8-9 hours, but you can relax and take in the views of the Malaysian countryside. There are both daytime and nighttime train services available.
Lastly, if you’re looking to save money, the bus is the most economical option. The bus journey can take around 5-6 hours. While it’s longer than flying, it’s usually more affordable, but it might be less comfortable for longer distances.