Anybody knows a way (other than planes) to go from Kuala
Lumpur to Bangkok. Is there any train? Any ideas aout the
fares? I would like to do it and take my time (2 weeks) to
visit the countryside and to stop here and there for a
couple of days.
Thanks
[There are 4 posts - the latest was added on Fri 21 May, 15:20]
Use the form at the end of this page to add your own post.
Topics
| Thorn Tree
| Home
there is a train - it starts in singapore - you change when
you pass into Thailand - you could also go via Penang
(island off Malaysia which has good food). the slow trip
should be great. the LP guide sets it all out properly.
The train can be either leisurely or expensive. Take your
pick. Planes - well, there is always a plane going
somewhere. For my money - automobiles. Great taxi service
runs throughout Malaysia, and very different. You'll meet a
lot of local people, but do your homework.
I first used the taxis in Malaysia circa 1979 (I last
visited the area in December 1998).The taxis are being
displaced by the buses, which are quite good, and at least
run to a timetable - if you are THAT time oriented! However,
consider using ferries as well.
Leaving Singapore, you could catch the train to Kuala Lumpur
( 8 - 9 hrs ), and enjoy a break. KL is interesting. KL to
Penang by bus ( 8 -9 hrs ) and Penang is very interesting.
High speed ferry to Langkawi ( 4 - 5 hrs ) and another nice
spot. From there to Thai mainland and continue the
leapfrogging travel. You can join all major means of
transportation from Langkawi, and there are still places to
stay there that won't cost an arm and a leg.
I doubt if a travel agent in a Western nation would be able
to help you with an itinerary, but I can gaurentee the
services provided by the locals won't disappoint if your
English is reasonably intelligible, and you have a sensible
attitude. Take a punt, and see a bit more of the countries
you plan to visit.
Have fun!
Sorry about neglecting costs! I paid about 80 rinngit ( then
about 2.54 to USD ) from KL to Singapore in Decemeber 1998
for a second class seat that was excellent in both service
and cleanliness. If you're a smoker, as I am, you'll be
relieved to know that the smoking regulations are similar to
those applied on the excellent Javan services. Simply leave
the air-conditioned carriage and have your cigarette in the
section between carriages. No harm done. You'll also meet
some interesting local people!
The ferry to Langkawi from Penang was quoted in USD, about
45 - 50 I recall. Pay in ringgit, and ask for the cheapest
seat you can get. Offer to drive the ferry, if necessary :-)
The train all the way through - forget it. Much cheaper to
go in short stages, buying your ticket along the way. And
much better for the local economy, if you think that way.
If you start in KL, take the night train to Had Yai in
Thailand, which costs RM44 for a second class sleeper, and
arrives about 8am. From Had Yai you could go by bus to
Krabi area, or else take the train to Surat Thani, and
maybe go to Koh Samui. Otherwise take the train up towards
Bangkok, maybe stop at Hua Hin.
Incidentally the advice in No 2 is not very accurate, KL-
Penang by bus is less than 6 hr, ferry to Lankawi is less
than 2 hours. Taxis are not being replaced by buses, taxis
still operate everywhere. The long distance taxis work on a
share basis, of 4 people, so you either wait for other
passengers at the taxi station, or charter the whole taxi.
Fares are set, so you shouldn't be ripped off.
In Malaysia buses are quicker and cheaper than trains, and
also much more frequent. I don't know about Thailand.