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Penang Hop On Free Central Area Transit (CAT)

Visitors to Penang can now enjoy a bus ride within George Town, the UNESCO World Heritage City, for FREE. The Hop On Free Central Area Transit (CAT) ply the route between Weld Quay Jetty and Komtar on 20-30 minute intervals from 6am-12midnight. Exploring the grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage City has never been this convenient now with 19 CAT stops in between all the famous heritage landmarks of Penang!

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Penang CAT Free Shuttle Bus

Hop-on & hop-off.

We live in an era where going to a public toilet cost us 0.50 cents and to think we get to travel around Penang for FREE? That’s right people! For those who knew, yeah! For those who don’t, Guys this is the best thing you’ll hear your whole life. So what is CAT?  Central Area Transit (CAT) is a free shuttle bus that wanders around the streets of Georgetown starting from Weld Quay Bus Terminal and ends at the Downing Street, next to Fort Cornwallis.

Launched in 2009 and goes by ‘free shuttle’, ‘5 Shuttle’ or ‘Free Hop-on CAT shuttle’ with the original bus routes, this initiative by the State Government was to encourage the use of public transport and for the convenience of travellers. The service runs from 6:00 am in the morning until 12:00 am midnight and each bus frequency from Weld Quay Bus Terminal and other bus stops are within 15-20 minutes so there’s no need to worry if you’ve missed the bus.   Now Let’s utilize it to the fullest, shall we? Here’s a guide for the adventure you can take through the shuttle bus consisting of 19 stops!

1st Stop: Pengkalan Weld 

@ Swettenham Pier & Chulia Street Pier

Marking the first stop of the CAT route, catch the sight of the Swettenham Pier which is the busiest port-of-call in Malaysia for cruise shipping so it’s a lucky day if there’s a ship lazing by port inches away from the clouds making this an amusing view up close.

2nd stop: Ferry

@Wisma yeap Chor Yee,  Wisma Kastam, Pengkalan Raja Tun Uda

This one’s a passing route to the next big stop. Get the camera ready for a quick shot of the beautiful historical building built during the  British colonization by the bare hands of the immigrants from South of India.

3rd stop: Litte India

Be swooned into the vibrancy of the Indian culture the minute the bus turns to little India. The ideal spot to hop off and explore the street rich with spices, god-blessed food, gorgeous sarees, locals who can’t stop staring and some ghetto Indian beats blaring out of the speaker! The nearby attraction includes  Penang Peranakan Museum,  Chung Keng Kwee Ancestral Temple, Penang Heritage Trust and Old OCBC Building 1886 Building. 

4th stop: Immigration Office

Hands down, my favorite stretch in Penang. Pearly white at dawn and glistening against the orange sky at dusk, Lebuh Pantai also as Beach Street is one of the oldest streets in Penang flooded by the colonial architectural buildings preserved till date. Home to also one of the famous Nasi Lemak within the vicinity at Sri Weld Food Court.

See also:  10 Best Nasi Lemak in Penang You Must Try

5th stop: Bank Negara

Alongside Beach street, visit  City Hall ,  Town Hall ,  Fort Cornwallis  and  War Memorial , hop off here. Or wait for the bus to complete its round till Station 17 where these attractions are situated nearby.

6th stop: Museums  @ Farquhar Street & Love Lane

Calling out the History Lovers, this is your stop to hop-off and visit the Penang State Museum that houses national and state treasures that include a collection of Baba Nyonya porcelain, furniture, jewelry, and costumes as well as eight oil paintings by Captain Robert Smith. Besides,  Church of Assumption ,  Convent Light Street , Court Buildings, and   St. Xavier’s Institution within the sight for sightseeing.

7th Stop: Muntri street

Within the heritage zone of Georgetown, Muntri Street is line by century worth buildings refurbished yet preserved eclectic style double story houses. Hop off the bus and take a stroll by the St. Francis Church and maybe pay our ancestors a visit at the Christian cemetery nearby 🙂  Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion  is worth a visit!

8th stop: Campbell street

For a quick salutation to god, stop by this street and visit the Benggali Mosque and step into the Chowrasta market (closer at station 12) for some good bargain therapy session.

9th stop: Komtar

If you’re intending to explore the other side of Penang like Batu Ferringhi, Balik Pulau or Air Itam among others, hop off at the Komtar Bus terminal and look for the busses to these off-route journeys. For more info about the routes, visit Rapid Penang and see more of the island through pennies. Komtar currently serves as an administrative office and houses ICT Digital Mall for affordable gadget and technology goods. Should you prefer air conditioning and fast fashion buys, head over the 1st Avenue Mall or Prangin.

10th/11th stop: Kedah street

No stops are made on the 10th station as it’s a part of Komtar, so head straight to Jalan Burma and pay the Asia Camera Museum a visit and explore more than 1000 camera mostly antique and we mean during the world war and such. They have an extensive collection of the German cameras, Leica and Zeiss.

12th stop: Chowrasta Market

Wanna be thoroughly in with the culture?  Visit Chowrasta Market at Penang road and immerse in nutmegs, tau Sar Peah  (Penang’s famous bean paste pastry) and fresh pickles for the best deals and authentic taste. For the book , lovers look nowhere!!  Set yourself free upon the thousands upon thousands of books of anything and everything. If you happen to get hungry from all that reading,  Penang Famous Teo Chew Cendol awaits for your arrival alongside some mouth smacking bowl of laksa.

13th stop: East of Komtar

Nearing Komtar again so hop-off for a quick stroll in Prangin Mall or 1st Avenue for a movie. The nearby attraction includes  Masjid Pintal Tali.

14th stop: Carnavon street

As a kid, hearing the street ‘Carnavon’ is like a trip to Toys R Us but more towards shops selling bulks of Paints, Drawing Blocks, Colour pencils, oh boy the JOY!!! Located at the street also is the Penang Islamic displaying a thorough exhibition of the history of Islam in Malaysia through a number of 19th-century antiques and a full-sized diorama of a dock scene.

15th stop: Street of Harmony

Time to get down the bus and explore this stop that is the home to Acheen Street Mosque ,  Masjid Kapitan Keling ,  Yap Kongsi ,  Khoo Kongsi ,  Cheah Kongsi  and  Lim Kongsi , collectively known as ‘Street of Harmony’. Though slightly overrated yet not too bad for a decent dinner is the Nasi Kandar Beratur along the way holding a line that is far too long for the faints of heart.

See also:  Street of Harmony | Famous Attractions in George Town

16th stop: Court

This stop is the continuation to the Street of Harmony as it stops in front of the famous Anglican church, St.George Chruch Kuan Yin Teng and Mahamariamman Temple which are usually flooded by deities and the aroma of incense sticks breezing through the wind.

17th stop: Dewan Sri Pinang

Dewan Sri Pinang holds some pretty cool exhibitions at times. Be sure to stop by and check out if there’s anything that may interest the mood!   You can also catch up on earlier attractions (reachable from Station 6) such as  City Hall ,  Town Hall ,  Court Buildings ,  War Memorial  and  Logan Memorial .

18th stop: Fort Cornwallis

Step back in time and walk through the Fort Cornwallis, the largest standing fort in Malaysia. It is a surreal experience to hear the 1812 Overture playing over the speaker system while a Malaysian man dressed in full British regalia stands at the gate. Catch  Queen Victoria’s Memorial Clock Tower  at sunset. Worth every single time!

19th stop: Lebuh Downing

AND THE FINAL STOP is the downing street connected to beach street before the bus heads back to the Weld Quay Bus Terminal.

For bus arrival time, kindly contact Rapid Penang ICIS Centre at 04-238 1313. Arrival time is subjected to traffic and weather conditions. It’s free, therefore, less of whining, more on letting loose and allow the road to lead the way. Have the best time 🙂 Cheers!

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Rapid Penang CAT Bus Service from Komtar Timur to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) by Free Central Area Transit Bus

Rapid penang cat bus service from komtar timur to swettenham pier cruise terminal (spct) by bus.

Rapid Penang CAT (Central Area Transit) is a free loop bus service plying around the city area of Penang Island between Terminal Jetty and KOMTAR.

On the day I was leaving Penang, 18 December 2021, the December 2021 Central Malaysian Floods was well under way with rain and flood warnings throughout Peninsular Malaysia, and Penang was issued with a Continuous Heavy Rain Alert.

As such, I chose to depart from Penang Island earlier in order to be well early to catch my ETS Platinum Business Class 9107dn train from Butterworth to KL Sentral , and to not get stuck in any impending rain or worse, having an unannounced cancellation of Penang Fast Ferry services.

From Kimberley Hotel Georgetown , I walked over to the Komtar Timur bus stop to catch a bus to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

Komtar Timur

Komtar Timur bus stop is located opposite Prangin Mall along Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong. Rapid Penang Bus Services 12, 301, and CAT goes to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) from Komtar Timur.

As luck would have it, the Rapid Penang CAT Bus Service was the first to arrive, getting me another free bus ride.

The interior of the Rapid Penang CAT Bus Service .

Stop information is displayed on the Rapid Penang CAT Bus Service . Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) is the last regular bus stop of CAT before terminating at Terminal Jetty.

Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT)

The Rapid Penang CAT Bus Service  ride from Komtar Timur to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) took 10 minutes.

My Rapid Penang CAT Bus dropped me off right in front of Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) instead of the actual bus stop, saving me a few steps of walking to transfer to the Penang Fast Ferry to Butterworth Penang Sentral Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) .

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Plan to go Georgetown via ferry from mainland, but I’m bringing elderly around. So I wanna know if ferry from Butterworth stops at Swettenham pier or Pangkalan Raja Uda? Coz I’m planning to take the CAT bus and thinking Pangkalan Raja Uda is much nearer to the bus terminal.

Swettenham Pier

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Central Area Transit  (or CAT, as it's fondly called) is a free shuttle service that picks you up from the Weld Quay Bus Terminal, travels along major streets in George Town and drops you off at designated bus stops that are mere walking distance to major attractions.

For a shuttle bus adventure in George Town, here’s where you should hop on and hop off:

Station 1: Pengkalan Weld Here’s where George Town’s main bus terminal is located and this marks the first stop of the CAT route. For a view of Swettenham Pier and Chulia Street Pier, try to snag a seat on the left side of the bus.

Station 4: Imigresen Banks, commercial buildings and administrative offices reside within the British colonial buildings. Station 4 is located at the end of Lebuh Pantai, where the police station is, so hop off and admire these buildings up close. There's also a good lunch spot at the nearby Sri Weld Food Court.

Station 5: Bank Negara If you're in a hurry to visit the City Hall , Town Hall , Fort Cornwallis  and War Memorial , hop off here. Or wait for the bus to complete its round till Station 17 where these attractions are situated nearby.

Station 7: Lebuh Muntri If you enjoy a great amount of strolling, stop by at Station 7 for attractions like St. Francis Xavier’s Church  and Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion . You could visit an age-old Christian Cemetery  nearby too.

Station 9: KOMTAR Pusat KOMTAR  also provides buses to off-route journeys such as Batu Ferringhi, Bayan Lepas, Balik Pulau and more. KOMTAR currently serves as an administrative office for the Penang State Government and houses an ICT Digital Mall  where affordable gadgets and tech goods are sold. For more shopping, take KOMTAR's link bridge to Prangin Mall  and 1st Avenue Mall .

Station 11: Jalan Kedah* Durian and cheesecake lovers must hop-off here! As you get off, carry-on walking straight down the road and make a stop at Moody Cow Café. Famous for cheesecakes with a smorgasbord of quirky flavours, their durian cheesecake is a definite must-try; and for the adventurous, their salted egg and century egg cheesecakes are perfect choices! *No stops made at bus stop no.10.

Station 12: Jalan Chowrasta For nutmegs, tau sar pneah and fresh pickles, Station 12 is located right at the entrance of Chowrasta Market . There are also a couple of second-hand bookshops located on the first floor of the market that is filled with biographies, paperback novels and even, old comics. Don’t forget to set aside 15 minutes for a bowl of cendol at Penang Famous Teochew Chendul  on Lebuh Keng Kwee, off Jalan Penang.

Station 14: Lebuh Carnarvon While Penang Islamic Museum is under renovation, trace the history of Sun Yat Sen  at his Penang base and then, take a stroll down to the Campbell Street Market .

Station 15: Kampung Kolam The station is surrounded by Acheen Street Mosque , Masjid Kapitan Keling , Yap Kongsi , Khoo Kongsi , Cheah Kongsi  and Lim Kongsi , collectively known as ‘Street of Harmony’. If you’re up for a hefty dinner, Nasi Kandar Beratur , situated next to Masjid Kapitan Keling, promises a feast for the senses.

Station 16: Mahkamah The shuttle stops in front of St. George’s Church and close to other places of worship such as the Goddess of Mercy Temple and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.

The frequency of buses at Weld Quay Bus Terminal and other bus stops are within 15-20 minutes. For bus arrival timings, kindly contact Rapid Penang ICIS Centre at 04-238 1313. Note that the arrival times are subject to traffic and weather conditions. For more information, visit www.rapidpg.com.my

 This shuttle service operates from 6.00am – 11.40pm.

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7 Tips to Explore Penang by Public Transport

I f you guys have been following this blog, you would have known that I went on a solo backpacking trip to Penang at the back end of last year and how much wonderful memories that I've had from that trip. Not only I got to explore most of their attractions but also met a couple of new friends along the way. Besides, I've also achieved my goal and successfully explored Penang's attractions by their public transport - Penang's RAPID Buses . In this post, I'm going to share with you how you can do the same (and how easy it is) through these 7 simple tips:

Tip 1: Know Your Landmarks

Before we get started, it is important to recognize a few crucial landmarks of Penang. Let's divide Penang into 5 key areas:

East - Y ou have the Weld Quay Ferry  Jetty  and KOMTAR building at the heart of Georgetown.

North - T he up and downhill ride along the coastline towards Batu Ferringhi Beach .

South -  T here is the Bayan Lepas International & Domestic Airport .

West - Y ou'll find yourself at the back of the island, better known as Balik Pulau .

Central - W here Penang Hill and the famous Kek Lok Si Temple resides.

Tip 2: Understand the Bus Routes

The are altogether 2 Bus Terminals located at Weld Quay Jetty and Balik Pulau respectively. Since most of us will probably be staying over at Georgetown, I will use Georgetown's KOMTAR as our starting point . Most buses that depart from the Jetty stop by KOMTAR bus station which functions like a central hub of the bus routes. The bus station is located at the ground floor of KOMTAR complex.

Each RAPID bus displays its destination at the front of the bus. So if you are setting off away from Georgetown, you should be looking at the direction away from the Jetty and vice versa. Here are some of the buses that you can take to visit the popular tourist attractions in Penang:

East Region (Georgetown) - CAT Bus (free hop on and off bus to explore the city), Bus 101, 201 or 203 from Jetty.

But I'd highly recommend that you explore Georgetown by foot to avoid the traffic jam. I certainly had much more fun hunting down the cultural heritages, street arts and food by walking down their lanes and alleys. 

North Region (Gurney Drive, Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi) - Bus 101

Central Region (Kek Lok Si, Air Itam Laksa, Penang Hill) - Bus 201, 203, 502 & 204 (the only bus that terminates at Penang Hill)

West Region (Balik Pulau) - Bus 401 & 502

South Region (Airport, Snake Temple) - Bus 102

Tip 3: Use the Official RAPID Penang Website

I'd also like to recommend that you use the RAPID Penang official website  as part of your homework before beginning your journey. Under the Journey Planner > Places of Interest ETA , just enter your destination and it will give you the buses that you should take.

You can also search the route of each bus by heading to Journey Planner > Route Maps . Just click on the bus number and the route of that bus will pop up.

Tip 4: Prepare the Fares

Once you are on board, you are expected to pay for the bus fare in exchange for a valid bus ticket which will be issued by the driver. Just tell the driver where you'd like to go and he will inform you the fare amount. You can pay in both cash and coins but do not expect any change! Means that you have to pay the exact amount (or more than that if you ran out of coins). From my experience, the fare typically amounts up to RM1.40, RM2.00, RM2.70 or RM3.40 depending on the distance traveled.

Tip 5: Ask the Driver

Now this is one of the most important tip of all. If you are not sure, please do not be shy and ask the driver about the bus route and whether it goes to your destination. As there is no stop announcement on board, there is a chance you might miss your stop. You can even ask the driver to inform you when you should alight. I did that a couple of times just to be sure that I got off at the right stop.

Tip 6: Choose a Strategic Accommodation 

There are a wide range of accommodation to choose from in Penang such as hotels, budget guesthouse, and Airbnb. I'd recommend that you pick an accommodation which is within walking distance to KOMTAR as most of the buses stop there. I stayed in Peter & Mei's Airbnb at 24 Merican Road which was very convenient. Not only it is within 15 minutes walking distance to KOMTAR but also has bus stops just 3 minutes away from their house.

Tip 7: Use GRAB as Your Alternative

Just in case you are lost and can't seem to find a bus stop, use GRAB! There is already an established GRAB community in Penang and the fare is really cheap. If you have 3 or 4 people to share the fare, it might be even cheaper than taking the buses!

A lright so there you have it. It is definitely possible and very convenient to explore Penang's attractions by their public transport. No need for the expensive car renting or driving yourself all the way to Penang now if you can utilize their public buses and GRAB services. If you have any question, feel free to leave a comment below!

17 COMMENTS

Really great tips…keep up the good work.

I’m struggling on the public transportation at penang yet i found this post…..!!!

You’re most welcome =) Hope this helps..but some things might have changed though as it was written two years ago =)

Great tips, we are here in Penang now so looking to go and explore, advisedto purchase a weekly pass cost 30 ringgits each for unlimited bus travel on the rapid system. To purchase go to entrance of bus depot at komtar small office on right, you will need passport or passport details, name, passport number, expiry date, nation where issued to receive card then just show driver when boarding.

That’s a great tip Phil! Will be useful for readers who read the comments section =)

Señor, un millón de gracias. most beautiful map I have seen. will use. again thx.

Thanks for the information. I will be traveling to Penang next month. I am looking forward to go.

You’re welcome Giam =) Enjoy your trip to Penang next month! It’s a wonderful place to visit

Thanks for your site, very helpful as I will be visiting Penang shortly. Do the buses run into the evenings?

Yes they do Patricia =)

Hi, Thank u v much for great tips. Appreciate your willingness to share n help others to get around Penang easily !

You’re welcome Oirey =) Thank you for your kind words

Hi,, thanks for your tips, I’ll go to Penang for Solo trip on July, I think your blog its good and enlightment

wow! am i lucky to find this page or what… are there many UBER or taxi that takes 5 pax?

Hi! UBER has been bought over by GRAB recently in Southeast Asia. So make sure you donwload the GRAB app for your last mile travel in Penang if necessary. There are cars that take 5 passengers =)

You’re welcome Danielle. Feel free to share it with your friends and have a look at a few tour packages that we offer. Have a wonderful trip to Malaysia =)

Great tips! Very informative. Thanks for putting this together, this will make my trip a lot easier.

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4 Best Ways For Getting Around Penang (All Transport Options)

Penang transport like the public buses can get you across the island reliably. And there’s even a free shuttle that goes around George Town!

However, both the heritage zone, George Town and the industrial zone, Bayan Lepas are prone to rush hour traffic jams. And the narrow roads don’t help in this regard.

There have always been talks for a monorail system to connect between the north and south of the island. But till that happens, these are the current modes of transportation.

Table Of Contents:

• Public Transport
• Grab Or Taxi
• Car Rental Service
• Penang Local Tour

1. Getting Around Penang With Public Transport

The main public bus system in Penang is known as Rapid Penang .

Fares are affordable (Typically RM1 – RM4 ) and they have routes to cover most parts of the city!

Tip: Exact change is necessary!

1.1. Getting From The Airport To City Centre

Most first-time visitors to Penang will want to head to George Town first! Thankfully, there’s public transport (i.e. bus) available that connects the George Town with Penang International Airport .

And so, if you want to save money, this is the way to do it.

But if you’re in a hurry, a taxi or e-hailing service would be a better option! As it takes almost 1.5 hours  by bus to reach George Town from the airport!

1.1.1. Penang Airport To Georgetown

The bus fare should cost RM2.70 . And there’s usually a bus leaving  every 30 minutes to 1 hour  from the airport.

These are the bus routes to look out for. The bus numbers are displayed at screen on the top front of the bus but you should also double confirm with the driver when you enter the bus.

The final destination of Bus 102 is Teluk Bahang which is perfect if you want to go directly from Penang airport to Gurney Drive , Batu Ferringhi or Penang National Park !

Expect the fare for this route to be around  RM4 .

For more details, read this guide on how to get from Penang Airport to Georgetown .

1.1.2. Airport To Queensbay Mall

If it’s a weekend, you can take  Bus 306  to  Queensbay Mall  from the airport. This route terminates at  Hospital P.Pinang I  with  54 stops  in between.

The journey should take around 20 minutes and cost RM1-4 .

Note: Alternatively, you can take Bus 401E too as this bus also stops at Queensbay Mall.

1.2. Getting Around Central George Town

Once in George Town, there are basically 3 methods for getting around.

1.2.1. Getting Around George Town By CAT Shuttle

The Central Area Transit Loop Line is a free shuttle bus system with 22 stops around George Town, and some of them are close to Penang attractions !

Operation hours are from 6am until 11:45pm for this hop on and hop off bus in Penang.

Buses for this circulate come every 10 to 15 minutes which is considerably frequent.  

CAT Shuttle Route (Notable stops):

• Weld Quay’s ferry bus terminal (or Pengkalan Weld) – sit on the left for the best views

• Ferry Bus Terminal – British colonial buildings, Wisma Yeap Chor Ee  and  Wisma Kastam are here
• Little India ( Chulia Street )
• OCBC Bank Penang – Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Wonder Food Museum are under 3 minutes’ walk from this stop

• Bank Negara – historic landmarks like the Town Hall and Fort Cornwallis
• Muzium Pulau Pinang – 4 minutes’ walk to Love Lane
• Smk St. Xavier – 4 minutes’ walk from Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion)

• KOMTAR  – With another major bus terminal for buses that go on to Balik Pulau or Batu Ferringhi ; This stop is also close to Kimberly Street Food Night Market (~9 minutes’ walk. There are 2 shopping malls here ( Prangin Mall  and  1st Avenue Mall)
• Kampung Kolam – The Sun Yat Sen Musuem and Khoo Kongsi are under 5 minutes’ walk from this stop;

• Gereja St. George (St. George’s Church) – also within walking distance (5 minutes) to the Goddess of Mercy Temple
• Dewan Sri Pinang – Another chance to stop at British colonial landmarks ( City Hall ,  Town Hall ,  War Memorial , etc)
• Padang Kota Lama  – Fort Cornwallis and Queen Victoria’s Memorial Clock Tower
• Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal
• Jetty – Close to the clan jetties of Penang

1.2.2. Getting Around George Town By Bicycle

Cycling allows you to cover more Penang street art at your own pace. Or to see the more remote clan jetties of Penang !

Just watch out for traffic! And check the weather forecast for fierce sunshine or heavy rain before you decide to rent out some bicycles.

Where To Get A Bicycle:

• Some hotels offer bicycles for rent (or free) for their guests.
• You can also find bicycle rental shops along Armenian Street or Chulia Street . A simple   single-gear bike costs between  RM10 and 20 to rent per day .

Note: Check that the rental shop provides a helmet and bike lock!

• Link Bicycles have convenient docking stations around the city that make the returning process so much easier.

Read more: Love Lane Penang : What To Love About This Popular Street In George Town

1.2.3. Getting Around George Town By Vespa

Here is the recommended Vespa rental service that you can check out:

• La Belle Vespa Rental – Google Maps

1.2.4. Getting Around George Town By Rickshaw

Although not as common as they used to be, the 3-wheeled trishaw is another advantageous way to get around George Town .

You can find rickshaws at touristy areas like:

• The junction of Armenian Street ( Lebuh Armenian) and Cannon Street ( Lebuh Cannon)
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
• Citidel Hotel at Penang Road ( Jalan Penang )
• Close to Fort Cornwallis

It’s a competitive business so peddlers will usually be willing to negotiate.

Cost: ~RM40 – 50 for 1.5 hours

Note: Tip them after your ride! It’s not an easy job!

1.2.5. Walking Around George Town

For photography buffs especially, walking is the slowest but still the way to take stellar shots of architecture, street art, Penang food and people!

You can stop anywhere you want to (except busy roads of course) and it’s free!

Tips for walking in Penang:

• Watch out for broken pavement and other obstacles like hawker stalls or construction works
• Be extra alert at night
• Malay words to look out for: Jalan (Road), Lorong (Lane) and Lebuh (Street)

1.3. Getting To Central Penang

Somewhere in the middle of the island ( Air Itam ) are 2 must-see Penang attractions ! The majestic Kek Lok Si and Penang Hill !

Here is how you can get to these locations if you don’t have your own ride.

Duration: ~1 hour

1.3.1. Getting To Penang Hill

If your destination is Penang Hill, you need to get yourself over to the Penang Hill Lower Station where you can get tickets for and board the funicular that goes up to Penang Hill.

For those starting their journey from George Town, look for the Rapid Penang   Bus 204  from  Pengkalan Weld (close the old jetty terminal) .

Bus 204 operates daily from as early as 5:30am to 11:30pm with intervals of around 30 minutes.

With this bus, there are about 40 stops between Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera) and the jetty. And therefore, the journey can take 40 to 50 minutes.

But bus 204  will take you to the Penang Hill Lower Station where you can buy tickets for the  funicular train  up to Penang Hill .

Note: This same bus does a detour to Kek Lok Si Temple too!

1.3.2. Getting To Kek Lok Si

Likewise, you can take a bus from George Town to Kek Lok Si Temple . Albeit with more options of bus routes.

Bus numbers include 201, 203, 204 & 502.

The journey will take 30 minutes or more. And none of these buses will take you to directly to the temple.

You’ll still have to take other transport from Air Itam (e.g, e-hailing service) to reach the temple.

1.4. Getting To Northwest Penang

The north-west coast of Penang has a lot in store for people who want to spend time outdoors !

And when it comes to public transport, there are currently 2 bus routes from Rapid Penang that you can take to reach Batu Ferringhi (Bus 101 and bus 102).

Note: If you take Bus 102 from the Penang International Airport to Batu Ferringhi, it might take more than an hour.

Cost by bus is around RM4.

1.4.1. Getting To Batu Ferringhi

Highlights Of Batu Ferringhi:

• Batu Ferringhi Night Market (Daily from 7pm)
• Batu Ferringhi beach

From George Town: Bus 101 & 102 from KOMTAR

Duration: 1 hour

1.4.2. Getting To Teluk Bahang

Both bus routes, 101 and 102 will also take you to Teluk Bahang. This area is further west of Batu Ferringhi and here, there are several attractions that you can check out.

Highlights Of Teluk Bahang:

• Penang National Park
• Entopia By Penang Butterfly Farm

• Penang Batik Factory
• Tropical Fruit Farm
• Teluk Bahang Dam (Annual dragon boat festival, jogging venue, great views, etc)
• ESCAPE Theme Park
• Waterfall (Air Terjun Taman Rimba is family-friendly)

From George Town: Bus 101 and 102 from KOMTAR

Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes

1.4.3. Getting To Balik Pulau

Balik Pulau is known for durian but there are other rural sights to see in this quieter side of Penang.

Those heading to Balik Pulau have plenty of options for bus routes that go towards the south of the island. Although you might have to transfer between different buses.

Bus Routes You Can Take To Balik Pulau:

• Bus 202 from the jetty to Paya Terubong where you can change to bus T502 to continue your journey to Balik Pulau; This takes close to an hour with a 2-minute walk
• Bus 502 – a direct journey from Jetty A stop to the bus terminal of Balik Pulau (Terminal Bas Balik Pulau); This takes about an hour
• Bus 401E from the east side of Komtar is a direct journey to Balik Pulau (Terminal Bas Balik Pulau) that takes 1.5 hours

Highlights Of Balik Pulau:

• Saanen Dairy Goat Farm
• Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory
• Pulau Betong fishing village
• Bao Sheng Durian farm
• Countryside Stables Penang
• Cycling tours in the countryside

From George Town: Bus 202/T502, 401 or 502 from Jetty A

Duration: ~1 to 1.5 hours

1.5. Getting To Mainland Penang

Penang island may capture most of the attention from visitors, but the mainland does have its own attractions too:

• Auto city – entertainment and food hub suitable for families
• Design Village Penang (premium outlet) and IKEA at Batu Kawan
• Nine Emperor Gods temple
• Froghill of Tasik Gelugor
• Penang Bird Park

Just to name a few!

1.5.1. Take A Taxi Or Ferry From Penang Island To Butterworth

By taxi, you’d get an immediate transfer from your hotel in George Town to where you want to get to in Butterworth . A drive across to the mainland from Penang Island will take at least 40 minutes .

Or you can take the 20-minute Rapid Ferry from Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal to Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal in Butterworth!

It costs  RM1 to RM8 and   Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal  is walking distance ( 10-20 minutes’ ) from  George Town !

Read this detailed guide on how to get from Penang Georgetown To Butterworth .

Read more: The Top KOMTAR Penang (Detailed Guide): Things To Do, Tickets, Food

Pros & Cons Taking Public Bus Around Penang

• Very affordable
• Covers most places of interest
• Environmentally friendly (shared transport = less emissions!)
• No need to find parking
• Subject to Penang traffic
• Need to have exact fare (no change given)
• Takes considerably longer than driving or taking a taxi
• No immediate transfer/ pick-up from your hotel
• Not convenient if you have a lot of luggage, elders or young children in your group

Tips For Taking The Public Bus Around Penang

• Have exact change ready before you board the bus!
• Let the driver know where you want to get off.
• There won’t be any announcements of bus stop names during the bus trip
• If you plan to rely on the bus to get around Penang, pick accommodation close to KOMTAR

2. Getting Around Penang With Grab Or Taxi

Like in most major cities in Malaysia, the e-hailing service, Grab in Penang is not too expensive and very convenient! Especially for one-way journeys from the airport or to and from popular shopping malls and your hotel.

Pros & Cons Taking Grab Around Penang

• Prices are more or less fixed (unlike taxis – the ones that don’t use a meter!)
• No worry about finding parking
• Widely available in the city
• Will be affected by Penang traffic
• Can be hard to find a return Grab from more remote locations (e.g. Penang National Park )
• Prices are higher on public holidays and peak times (e.g., lunch or dinner)

3. Getting Around Penang With A Car Rental Service

Numerous car rental companies in Penang will rent out a small car (5 pax) for around RM150/day .

It’s possible to rent them from the airport too!

Pros & Cons Driving Yourself Around Penang

• Flexible travel at your own pace
• Less worry about missing departure as is the case for buses!
• Difficult to find parking in George Town
• Have to pay parking fees (except on Sunday)
• Need to avoid rush hour
• Not advisable for those with no prior experience driving in Malaysia

4. Getting Around Penang With A Local Tour Guide

And lastly, there’s hiring a private tour service like RayTheTour !

• Choose your own itinerary or let the guides take you around their hometown!
• English or Chinese-speaking guides
• Direct pick-up from your hotel, airport or anywhere else in Penang
• Drop off to your hotel after the tour
• Tour hours around 9am to 6-7pm
• Comfortable transport (either MPV or van )
• Parking fees and petrol costs are included
• RayTheTour does tours for Cameron Highlands, Ipoh and Taiping too!
• Travel time is dependent on Penang traffic
• Costly for solo and couple travelers

For inquiries and bookings, message them on WhatsApp !

PS: They don’t do car rentals!

Further reading:

• How To Get To Penang Island From Kuala Lumpur (KL)
• Best Way To Travel From Langkawi To Penang (All Methods + Cheap Option)

Getting around Penang is straightforward if you know which areas you want to explore! Because besides George Town, there is central Penang and north-west Penang.

You can review the advantages and disadvantages of the available transportation in Penang in this guide. From bus, taxi, ferry, rental car services and private tours!

If your travel group has less than 3 people and you don’t need a guide but want to travel as quickly and as comfortably as possible:

We recommend taking a mix of the CAT shuttle (within George Town) and an e-hailing service for places further out.

Other posts you might like:

• Perfect Penang Itinerary (1 Day To 5 Days)
• 15 Best Hotels In Penang For An Unforgettable Stay (From Budget To Luxury)
• 21 Fun Things To Do In Penang With Kids (Complete Guide) + Food & Hotels
• 23 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night
• Best Time To Visit Penang – When Not To Go & Special Events To Look Out For

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Penang extends unlimited free public bus service into 2022

Wednesday, 08 Dec 2021

Passengers waiting for the free public bus at the Rapid Penang bus terminal in Weld Quay, George Town.

PENANG has extended its free bus service into next year, with unlimited rides on Rapid Penang on all routes.

Believed to be the first such service in the country, state transport committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said it is expected to further ease the burden of Penangites.

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How to Navigate Public Transportation in Penang

Penang is a bustling island state in Malaysia that offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. As an Expat, navigating Penang’s public transportation system can seem daunting at first, but with a bit of planning and preparation, you can easily and affordably explore the island’s many sights and sounds.

The good news is that Penang’s public transportation system is relatively efficient and affordable. There are several modes of transportation to choose from, including Rapid Penang buses, taxis, trishaws, and ride-hailing services like Grab and MyCar. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating Penang’s public transportation system as an expat.

Types of Public Transportation in Penang

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of planning your route and purchasing tickets, let’s take a quick look at the different types of public transportation available in Penang:

• Rapid Penang Buses: These are the most common and affordable modes of transportation in Penang, and they cover most of the island’s major attractions and destinations.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Penang, but they tend to be more expensive than other modes of transportation.
• Trishaws: Trishaws, or cycle rickshaws, are a popular way to explore Georgetown’s historic streets.
• Ride-hailing services: Grab and Airasia Ride are popular ride-hailing services in Penang, and they offer a convenient and affordable way to get around the island.

Rapid Penang Buses

Rapid Penang is the main bus operator in Penang, offering a network of bus routes that cover most of the island and mainland. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with free Wi-Fi. The buses run from early morning until late at night, and the frequency of buses depends on the route. To use the Rapid Penang buses, you need to purchase a Rapid Penang card, which is a contactless smart card that can be loaded with cash value. The card can be used to pay for fares on all Rapid Penang buses. You can purchase a Rapid Penang card at any Rapid Penang service centre or authorized agent. You can also top up your card at these locations. Once you have your Rapid Penang card, you can board any Rapid Penang bus by tapping your card on the card reader located at the entrance of the bus. The fare will be automatically deducted from your card. It’s important to note that some Rapid Penang buses have a designated seating area for women and children. You should respect this area and avoid sitting there if you’re not a woman or child. Overall, the Rapid Penang buses are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation in Penang. They can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to avoid travelling during these times if possible.

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Penang, especially for short trips. They are easily available and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. Taxis in Penang are metered, so it is important to ensure that the meter is turned on when you board the taxi. The flag-down rate for taxis in Penang is RM3, and the fare is charged at RM0.25 per 200 meters or 45 seconds of waiting time. Taxis in Penang also charge a surcharge of RM2 for trips from the airport. One important thing to note about taxis in Penang is that some drivers may refuse to use the meter and instead negotiate a fixed fare for the trip. It is recommended to avoid these taxis and look for another one that will use the meter to avoid being overcharged. Another thing to keep in mind when taking a taxi in Penang is to have small change on hand. Taxi drivers may not always have change for larger denominations, so it is best to have the exact fare or small bills ready. To hail a taxi in Penang, simply stand by the roadside and raise your hand to signal the driver. You can also find taxis at designated taxi stands around the city. Ride-hailing services such as Grab are also available in Penang and can be a convenient option for getting around the city.

Trishaws, also known as beca in Malay, are a popular mode of transportation among tourists in Penang. They are three-wheeled bicycles with a passenger seat at the front and are often decorated with colourful designs and ornaments. Trishaw rides can be a fun and unique way to explore the city, especially in the historic Georgetown area. Trishaws are generally not practical for longer distances or for commuting purposes, but they can be a great way to see the sights in a leisurely manner. Negotiate the price with the trishaw driver before starting your ride, and make sure to agree on the duration and route of the ride. Prices can vary depending on the length of the ride and the number of passengers. It’s important to note that trishaws are not as common as other forms of transportation in Penang, and may not be available in all areas. Additionally, while trishaws are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when travelling in one.

Ride-hailing services

Ride-hailing services such as Grab and Airasia ride are also available in Penang. These services can be convenient if you’re in a rush or don’t want to wait for a bus or taxi. To use these services, you’ll need to download the app, sign up for an account, and link your credit card or other payment method. Once you’ve set up your account, you can enter your pickup location and destination, and the app will show you the estimated fare and travel time. You can choose from a range of ride options, from budget to premium, depending on your needs and budget. One thing to keep in mind is that ride-hailing services are subject to surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand. This means that fares can be significantly higher than normal, so it’s a good idea to check the fare estimate before booking a ride. Overall, ride-hailing services can be a convenient and affordable way to get around Penang, especially if you’re travelling in a group or need to get somewhere quickly. However, they may not always be the most cost-effective option, so it’s worth comparing fares with other modes of transportation before making a decision.

Planning your Route

Planning your route before you start your journey is crucial, especially if you’re new to Penang. Here are some tips to help you navigate the public transportation system like a pro:

Understanding the bus routes and schedules

The Rapid Penang Bus system has an extensive network of routes that cover most of Penang Island and parts of the mainland. To plan your route, you can visit the Rapid Penang website or use their mobile app to check the bus schedules and routes. Each bus stop has a list of the buses that stop there, and the schedules are usually posted at the bus stops as well. You can also ask the bus driver or conductor for assistance.

Choosing the right mode of transportation for your destination

While the bus system is extensive, it may not cover all the areas you want to visit. In such cases, you can consider taking a taxi or a trishaw. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked through a ride-hailing app. Trishaws are a unique way to travel short distances and explore the city’s heritage sites. They are available in tourist areas and are a fun way to experience Penang’s culture.

Using Google Maps for navigation

Google Maps is an excellent tool to plan your route and navigate Penang’s public transportation system. You can enter your destination, and the app will suggest the best route, including the bus number, stop, and walking directions. You can also check the estimated travel time and the fare for each mode of transportation. However, it’s always good to double-check the information with the bus driver or conductor, especially if you’re unsure about the route.

By following these tips, you can plan your route and navigate Penang’s public transportation system with ease. In the next section, we will discuss the different types of tickets available and how to purchase them.

Where to purchase tickets

You can purchase Rapid Passport, single-ride tickets, and stored-value cards at Rapid Penang ticket counters, which are located at major bus terminals and some bus stops. You can also purchase these tickets on board the bus, but be sure to have the exact change. Taxis and trishaws usually do not require tickets, but you should negotiate the fare with the driver before boarding.

Understanding fares and pricing

Rapid Penang buses have a flat fare of RM1.40 for most routes, with higher fares for express routes and longer distances. Taxis and trishaws usually charge a higher fare for tourists, so it’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand. Ride-hailing services such as Grab and Airasia ride use a dynamic pricing model, which means that fares may vary depending on the time of day, demand, and other factors.

Types of tickets available

• Single-use tickets: These tickets are valid for a single journey and must be purchased before boarding the bus.
• Stored-value cards: These cards can be topped up with money and used to pay for multiple journeys.
• Unlimited-use passes: These passes allow for unlimited travel on a specific route for a certain period of time.

Tips for Riding Public Transportation in Penang

• Always be aware of your surroundings while waiting for public transportation in Penang, especially at night.
• Keep your belongings close to you and avoid flashing any valuables.
• Stay in well-lit areas and avoid standing alone at deserted bus stops or stations.

Knowing when to board and disembark

• Listen carefully for announcements or signs indicating the arrival of your bus or train.
• Make sure you are waiting at the correct bus stop or station for your destination.
• Be prepared to get off the bus or train when it reaches your stop, as drivers may not always announce the stops.

Dealing with traffic and delays

• Be prepared for traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
• Try to avoid travelling during rush hour if possible.
• Be patient and understanding during delays, as they are common in Penang.

Tips for riding taxis and trishaws

• Always negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi or trishaw.
• Make sure the driver turns on the meter in a taxi.
• Be aware of scams and overcharging, especially as an expat.
• If possible, ask a local for an estimate of what the fare should be.

Penang’s public transportation system might seem overwhelming at first, but with a little planning, you can easily navigate the city like a local. Whether you prefer to take the bus, hail a taxi, or ride a trishaw, there are plenty of transportation options available to you.

Planning your route ahead of time, understanding the ticketing system, and being aware of your surroundings are all important steps to take when using public transportation in Penang. With these tips, you can avoid getting lost, save money, and have a more enjoyable experience exploring all that Penang has to offer.

So why not give public transportation a try? You might be surprised at how convenient and cost-effective it can be!

Note : Some of the info here are derived from AI. As such it may not be 100% accurate but it is always a good idea to do your own due diligence.

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Penang to Langkawi 2024 Stress-Free Travel Guide

How to get from Penang to Langkawi? This guide reviews all the methods (ferry, car, bus, and flight) to escape one very cultural tropical island for another that many consider pure Malaysian tropical bliss.

Penang is a fun, beautiful island full of unforgettable events , at least 20 great beaches , interesting characters, amazing local food  and Western restaurants , a vibrant nightlife , the world’s smallest national park at Teluk Bahang , one of Southeast Asia’s biggest Buddhist temples , a city theme-park inside one of Malaysia’s highest towers, Komtar , and plenty of culture.

There are many things to do in Penang , and a vibrant backpacker scene in George Town that fuels itself at one of the many top bars in Penang , but in terms of beaches — and getting that feeling of “tropical bliss” — nearby Langkawi island in Kedah is a much better option. See a list of Langkawi’s best beaches here . Don’t forget Monkey Beach on Penang, though.

But how to get from Penang to Langkawi?

This post will solve all of your planning questions for a trip from Penang to Langkawi. First of all, read this guide to know whether Penang or Langkawi is better for you. Then, remember to get yourself a Malaysian Tourist SIM Card before you leave the island. Coming from Kuala Lumpur? No problem. Read how to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi .

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Penang to Langkawi: distance

The distance between Penang and Langkawi is 108km as the crow flies. Langkawi is in the state of Kedah, and it’s also a jump-off point for the islands of Southern Thailand: either the gateway town of Satun or the famous tourist island of Koh Lipe.

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Penang to Langkawi by ferry

Penang and Langkawi used to be conveniently connected by a direct ferry which left from the Swettenham Pier , or Cruise Ship Terminal, on the north-easternmost corner of Penang island, and within walking distance from the northern end of Beach Street in George Town’s Little India and the Rapid Penang Ferry to Butterworth .

Unfortunately, since COVID-19 related closures, the ferry from Penang to Langkawi has temporarily ceased operations. When things will get back to normal, the following is what is expected to happen:

There used to be two daily departures from Penang to Langkawi. They leave at 8.30 am and 2 pm . The cost of a one-way ticket is RM70.

You don’t need to buy a return ticket, as it’s easy to do so in Langkawi. But if you know when/where you will be returning to Penang (or leaving Langkawi to go elsewhere), many agencies sell return packages.

Children under 12 have a 50% discount.

Penang to Langkawi ferry review

The trip lasts about 3 hours, and the ferries are air-conditioned and fairly clean. It’s not a very scenic trip, to be honest, especially because passengers are forbidden from going on the top of the deck.

Bring a sweater or a jacket, as the cabin can get very cold. In general, there are TVs broadcasting movies during each trip, so you will have something to do. Bring a book anyhow, since many of the movies are only in the Malay language.

Ferries are mid-sized and not always full. They have multiple rows of seats, which are numbered. Make sure to check your seat number before sitting. Toilets are overall well maintained, but when the sea’s choppy, even boys better sit down 🙂

How to get from George Town to Langkawi

Depending on where your hotel is located, you should head towards Little India in George Town and then arrive on Beach Street. Walk all the way to its northern end. Once you see the Queen Victoria Memorial Clocktower, take the third roundabout exit, exactly to your right, and walk towards the end of the road. The entrance to the Swettenham Pier and the departure point for Langkawi-bound ferries is there, on the corner.

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Penang to Langkawi by car

With a car, it’s possible to drive very close to Langkawi, and then take a ferry from there, at a fraction of the price of a Penang to Langkawi direct ferry ticket. Also, there are many more departures (up to 12 hourly boats) every day.

Besides Penang, there are two other main ports servicing Langkawi: Kuala Kedah , in Kedah state, and not too far from its enticing capital of Alor Setar. And Kuala Perlis , a small seaside municipality in the state of Perlis.

READ MORE — How to catch the ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi

To reach both towns, drive out of Penang on the First Penang Bridge, and enter the NSE Expressway (E1) towards Alor Setar/Bukit Kayu Hitam. It’s about an hour and a half drive to Kuala Kedah, and about two hours to Kuala Perlis.

Remember : you must have a Touch & Go card, or you won’t be able to pay highway tolls in cash at any highway turnpike. If you don’t have one, you can still ride the old road via Sungai Petani, but it will take at least double the time it’d take using the E1.

Both towns are small and revolve around their own jetties to Langkawi, so you won’t certainly get lost. There are guarded parking lots where you can leave your vehicle safe while on Langkawi: they cost between RM10 and RM15 per day.

PARKING TIP : don’t listen to the guys on motorbikes who will inevitably approach your car, suggesting you follow them to their “great, secure parking spots”. Based on personal experience, these people are not dangerous or scammy, but most often are there to sell you more expensive, private parking. It’s much better to stick to the public parking manned by security guards. You can’t go wrong: they have a guard always on standby and are full of parked cars.

As of May 2022, only a few ferries to Langkawi leave every day from both Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis,. It’s important to check schedules online here to avoid waiting or getting stranded.

A one-way trip from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi is RM23 .

A one-way trip from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi is RM18 .

If you arrive late, there are several mid-range hotels near the ferry terminal, especially in Kuala Perlis. Expect to pay around RM40/50 per night for a simple double room.

Penang to Langkawi by Bus

From Penang, it’s better to cross the Straits Sea with the free ferry to Butterworth. Get off the ferry, take the free shuttle bus to Butterworth bus station, and then change to a Kuala Perlis-bound bus. You can catch a 1 hour and 20 minutes ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi . This is absolutely the easiest way to get from Butterworth to Langkawi.

A bus ticket from Penang/Butterworth to Kuala Perlis costs less than RM20 with most companies, shop around, and make sure to arrive between 4 pm and 5 pm, or you’ll risk spending the night in Kuala Perlis.

BUS TO LANGKAWI TIP : If you are travelling to Langkawi by bus from other cities in Malaysia, it’s better to go to Kuala Perlis than Kuala Kedah. There are many more connections between Kuala Perlis and most cities in Malaysia. Most important, Kuala Perlis’ long-distance bus terminal is within walking distance from Langkawi’s ferry terminal. Kuala Kedah’s is not… you need a Grab Car from Alor Setar. To avoid surprises, however, you can also book your Penang to Kuala Perlis bus tickets online with 12GoAsia.

Penang to Langkawi by flight

There are many cheap flights between Penang and Langkawi airport , usually operated by AirAsia or Fireflyz. They take only 35 minutes and cost around RM60 – even less than the 3-hour ferry ride. If you are booking a future trip to Langkawi, it pays to start looking for flights as early as possible, as you may even be able to find a Penang to Langkawi flight ticket for a ridiculous RM30/40. You can check prices and book your flight from Penang to Langkawi online .

RELATED : Ultimate Guide to Penang Airport and Cheap Flights from Penang

You can conveniently check and book your Penang to Langkawi boat, bus or flight tickets using this form by 12GoAsia, which we strongly recommend.

Arriving at Langkawi Airport: How to get a Car to Reach Langkawi’s Pantai Cenang

The only problem with arriving at Langkawi airport is that you may have trouble renting a car or a motorbike on the spot. Fear not, however, because, with Grab or a Taxi, a ride to nearby Pantai Cenang should cost you between RM 15/20.

RELATED : Guide to Using Grab in Penang

Otherwise, you can opt for the best option, which is booking a private airport transfer directly to your hotel of choice, using an air-conditioned coach that can fit up to 10 people — a perfect option for groups or moving big luggage. You can reserve your private hotel transfer from Langkawi airport here ,  with a special RM10 discount .

Penang to Langkawi by Train

Trains are not directly connected to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah, but with the arrival of the ETS Train Service, are certainly a fast method to travel to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur or the Malaysia/Thai border at Padang Besar .

If coming from Kuala Lumpur/south, you should alight at Alor Setar KTM train station and catch a local bus or taxi to Kuala Kedah,  15km away. A boat from here takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If coming from the north/Thailand, or if you prefer to catch one of the quickest ferries departing from Kuala Perlis , you should get off the train at Arau in Perlis state. From here, local buses and taxis ply the 18km to Kuala Perlis. As described above, the bus station here is within walking distance of the ferry terminal.

Note, however, that ETS Trains tend to fill up very fast: it’s recommended that you  book your train tickets from Penang to Alor Setar or Arau online , especially if you plan on travelling on a weekend.

Arriving at Langkawi Ferry terminal

Langkawi Ferry terminal is nowhere near the famous beach of Pantai Cenang but is in Kuah Town, Langkawi’s main settlement on the southeastern coast. This is where all ferries to Penang, Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis, and Thailand , arrive and depart from. A taxi ride to Pantai Cenang costs around RM25.

LANGKAWI ARRIVAL TIPS : It really depends what you have come to Langkawi for, but if you want to explore, the best is to rent either a motorbike or your own car . Both can be rented by many touts and from any of the ticket selling booths outside Langkawi Ferry Port’s main gate. Just check the bike before you set off, take pictures of all eventual scratches/malfunctions with your phone (or be prepared to argue later), and bargain hard. A good price for an automatic scooter is RM35/day .

Consider that rental cars can cost as low as RM60/50 per day — yes, supply generally outstrips demand unless you travel to Langkawi on a weekend or a public holiday — so groups of more than three people may want to opt directly for a car.

REMEMBER : bargain as there’s no tomorrow . There’s always another tout waiting for you around the corner… actually, most will “attack you” as soon as you pass through the terminal doors. Be polite, firm, and get your wheels: it’s so much more practical than hailing cabs or Grab cars while in Langkawi.

Langkawi Tour: Choose what Places to See in Langkawi

Once in Langkawi, you have a number of options for great things to do. With popular attractions such as the Langkawi Cable Car and Skybridge , and the chance to explore wild nature and see Malaysian animals , or strike off on kayaking trips out at sea, the possibilities for things to do in Langkawi are endless.

READ MORE – A Perfect 3-Day Langkawi Itinerary

But consider that, in order to really get to know Langkawi’s natural wonders, renting a scooter or showing up early to avoid queues won’t be enough. The way to go is to take a  Langkawi guided tour , especially when it comes to watersports and jungle activities — you really need the help of a trained guide to make the best of your trip and stay safe. The following suggestions highlight a few tours that we think you should consider.

Langkawi Cable Car and Sky Bridge

For starters, everyone going to Langkawi wants to ride on the famous Cable Car. One of the steepest and highest in the world, it offers amazing views of the Langkawi archipelago from the top of Skybridge. Problem is, the line to get your ticket is always long, no matter what time you arrive. Pro Tip: you can book your ticket in advance  and don’t waste time standing in line. You came to Langkawi to explore and enjoy, right?

Another option to ride the Cable Car, see Eagle Square and do some duty-free shopping is taking a full-day private tour of Langkawi with your own English-speaking guide and air-conditioned vehicle. This is a perfect option for families and those who can’t get around using motorbikes.

Langkawi Best Watersports and Activities

When in Langkawi, not enjoying the island’s pristine tropical waters is a big mistake. So get off that sunbed and take part in some fun activities. Again, a guided tour is the way to go — do you really want to spend time trying to charter a boat for the best price? Not recommended, and a waste of time: you also need to make sure that the boatman who takes you is trustworthy.

So take out the guesswork, and let the professionals at Get Your Guide and Klook (two online booking services we use to book our own trips when we travel) do this for you. You can pay with International credit cards, and you’ll be able to cancel your bookings free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity starts.

1) First of all, the popular Langkawi island hopping tour  ( book here for an RM20 discounted ticket, including pick up from your hotel ) is the quintessential way to get off the main island and experience the rest of Langkawi’s archipelago. You’ll spend a half day floating on the sea, and you’ll witness the famous Langkawi “eagle feeding”. The local eagles will fly down from the sky to eat close to your boat… prepare your cameras!

2) Everyone loves a jet sky tour of Langkawi’s archipelago . This 4-hour-long tour is a favorite, as it mixes jet skying with the exploration of the eight Dayang Bunting islands. You’ll swim in the largest freshwater lake in Malaysia, hike in the jungle, and scoot over waves assisted by a trained guide.

3) Families may opt for a unique 4-hours mangrove safari tour on Langkawi’s coast. Depending on season and availability, you may experience mangrove planting, and your guide will tell you all about this important plant.

4) For sporty types, Langkawi also offers interesting kayaking and swimming guided tours . You’ll paddle for three hours along mangrove forest and up some of Langkawi’s most hidden nooks and crannies. A perfect tour for adventurous types, families, and team building activities.

5) If you want to try something different, getting on a fishing trip with a local is something worth considering. You’ll get in a local boat for 3 hours, accompanied by a local angler who knows all the best fishing spots in Langkawi.

Langkawi Best Cruises

Another recommended activity is taking a cruise in Langkawi.

1) The most popular (and fun) is definitely hopping on a Langkawi Sunset Cruise . This cruise includes a scrumptious seafood dinner, which is often barbecued to perfection, and a free flow of drinks. At sunset, Langkawi is at its most magical, and being able to catch a pink-turning-purple sunset from the vantage point of the sea makes this cruise a perfect choice for that romantic getaway. You will see it’s very popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties — many people, in fact, come to marry on idyllic Langkawi. Besides drinking, eating and dancing, you’ll have a chance to swim and try the “natural jacuzzi”. Curious? Book your coveted spot .

READ MORE – Ultimate Guide to a Sunset Cruise in Langkawi

2) To pair a fun boating experience at sunset with nature, we recommend the Flying Foxes and Wetlands Sunset Cruise . You’ll cruise from the Kilim’s Mangrove Forest towards islet Pulau Dangli, where you’ll see the flight of the flying foxes, Malaysia’s biggest bats, and feed tropical fish. Very good choice for families with children.

Nature Tours in Langkawi

The beauty of Langkawi is that, regardless of its touristic development, it still has plentiful and beautiful nature. The best way to get to know it in a safe, exciting and educative way is to rely on a nature tour led by a professional and licensed tour guide.

1) Experience the rainforest on a guided morning trek through the beautiful landscape of Gunung Raya. You could also combine or hike at night in the Lubuk Semilang park when the insects and fauna are completely different. This is a perfect time to look for rare nocturnal animals like flying lemurs and flying squirrels.

2) Bird lovers should consider an interesting half day bird-watching tour in a remote area of Langkawi. Your guide will help you spot hornbills, Little and Pond Herons, Egrets and more local birds. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, and transfer in luxury a/c private coach.

3) Nature lovers won’t find a better tour than the Kudang Badak River Tour and Swimming , led by an expert guide, with a home-cooked lunch with a local family — another insight into this less-touristed area of Langkawi. You’ll cruise for 3 hours through a beautiful and secluded mangrove forest looking for birds and lizards — including the giant monitor, a lesser cousin of the Komodo Dragon. Before you return to your hotel, you’ll have a chance to take a swim in a secluded and untouristed jungle setting.

4) Last but not least, adrenaline junkies should try Langkawi’s zip line adventure tour over the Machinchang GEO Park.  You’ll soar above Malaysia’ only UNESCO Geopark and the beautiful Seven Wells Waterfalls on one of the longest zip line courses in the whole Malaysia. This is not for those who suffer vertigo though, as believe us — we tried — some of the jumps are quite long and high. For all the others, it’s a great and fun experience for a memorable nature adventure in Langkawi.

Blogging transparency:  If you like this website and found the information contained in this post useful, please note that, if you buy any service through some of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Consider it a small way to say thanks, and keep Penang Insider going. 

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