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Updated November 2026.
By now we have covered this Thailand to Singapore overland route a whole bunch of times, following various inland and coastal routes, on trains, planes, boats, and all sorts of automobiles. But my favourite will forever be the rail routes, where, in 2022, we travelled the entire way from Bangkok to Singapore by train and then back again with a return train journey from Singapore to Bangkok. A journey of nearly 2,000 km, including the Padang Besar border, Johor Bahru and—back in 2022—a change of trains at Gemas (a basic map outline here). As well as the more exciting stopovers between Thailand and Singapore by train at both Penang and Kuala Lumpur which I’ll highlight along the way.
Travelling in the opposite direction? My updated Malaysia to Thailand by train guide covers the current Padang Besar border crossing, Thai train times and the overnight connection to Bangkok.
Planning the whole Southeast Asia rail route? My Singapore to China by Train guide follows the same railway corridor through Malaysia and Thailand. For the international stretch beyond Vientiane, see my Laos to China by Train cornerstone guide, covering tickets, Boten–Mohan immigration and arrival in Kunming.
There is no single through train from Bangkok to Singapore. However, Special Express 45 runs directly from Bangkok into Malaysia at Padang Besar. From there you change to KTM services through Malaysia, then make a separate Shuttle Tebrau crossing from JB Sentral to Woodlands in Singapore. Book the journey in sections.
Our Original Thailand to Singapore Train Journey (2022)
This guide follows my actual 2022 Thailand to Singapore train journey, with the original stories and photographs kept along the way. The practical route has changed since then, most notably with new direct KTM ETS trains between KL Sentral and JB Sentral. That means the awkward Gemas change I made is now history rather than a connection you need to plan.
But it’s still a fantastic journey which I will highlight in the various stages below travelling from Thailand to Singapore by Train with my favourite stopovers along the way. Admittedly it can be done quicker (skipping past Butterworth/Penang) but for me the stopovers are the highlight of the entire journey between Thailand and Singapore.
The Best Train Journey in Southeast Asia?
There are of course more exciting but simpler train journeys in Southeast Asia, day-trip type train rides, like the death railway in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, and maybe Sapa in Vietnam etc. But when it comes to more extensive train travel itineraries in Southeast Asia, I can’t think of any that can compare to Bangkok to Singapore by train. Of course, this may be down to personal preference, as I find more excitement in travels south of Thailand with the old colonial spice routes, multiculturalism, the diverse mixing pot of amazing food, and the modernity of the utopian/dystopian cities along the way (see my Singapore accommodation guide). Whereas, with inland Indochina borders, I find them more depressing tainted with constant reminders of tormenting times with the Khmer Rouge, communism, and the American Vietnam War.
Why Travel from Bangkok to Singapore by Train?
Train travel is definitely not the most convenient mode of transport in the region, and on our most recent adventure, Fanfan refused to join me, opting instead to fly to the main destinations along the way. Including short stops at Penang and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and then the final stop at Singapore. Because she pretends she doesn’t love trains (everybody loves trains).
I think Fanfan’s combined flight time between our stops in Bangkok, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore was only around four hours. She also found flying cheaper at the time. But she didn’t get to do the trains! My 2022 adventure involved over 30 hours aboard trains, before all the transfers and stopovers. That’s half the point for me.
- You can enjoy different railway experiences across the route, from Thai sleepers to Malaysian ETS electric trains. I recommend booking the long-distance trains in advance.
- Trains are generally cleaner and more comfortable than travelling by bus/coach.
- Train travel is relaxed and stress-free and it’s a bit like sightseeing from the comfort of your chair.
- You get to travel on trains. Trains are awesome!
How Long Does Bangkok to Singapore Take by Train?
Allow at least a couple of days for the train journey from Bangkok to Singapore, even without sightseeing stops. The sleeper, border crossings and Malaysian ETS connections determine how quickly you can travel; schedules change, so check SRT and KTM before booking. Personally, I would make time for Penang and Kuala Lumpur rather than rush through.
Flying between Bangkok and Singapore is much quicker, but that’s not the point of this particular adventure. The rail route offers worthwhile stopovers in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, with plenty of changing scenery along the way.
Recommended Train Route from Bangkok to Singapore
It is possible to travel faster, for example travelling direct from Padang Besar to Kuala Lumpur bypassing Butterworth/Penang. But Penang is the obvious highlight of this stretch. Hat Yai remains a worthwhile optional stop, especially if you want more sleeper-train choices. The old Gemas interchange from my 2022 journey is no longer necessary; if you’d like a different detour, Melaka is accessible by road from southern Malaysia.
- Bangkok to Padang Besar by sleeper train: Take Special Express 45 from Krung Thep Aphiwat. It passes Hat Yai and continues to the Malaysia border, or you can break the journey in Hat Yai to use a different sleeper train.
- Padang Besar border crossing: Clear Thai and Malaysian immigration. Check Malaysia’s MDAC requirement before travel and remember the one-hour time difference.
- Padang Besar to Butterworth/Penang: Take KTM Komuter towards Butterworth for the ferry to George Town, or choose an onward ETS connection if you want to skip Penang.
- Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur: Take a reserved-seat KTM ETS train to KL Sentral. Check the official KTM timetable for your preferred departure.
- Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru: Travel directly by KTM ETS from KL Sentral to JB Sentral. The former change at Gemas is no longer necessary.
- Johor Bahru to Singapore: Cross the border to Woodlands on the separately booked KTM Shuttle Tebrau, or travel by bus. Check Singapore’s SG Arrival Card rules and leave time for immigration and an onward MRT connection.
The modern route in brief: Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat) → Padang Besar on Thai Special Express 45 → Butterworth/Penang (optional) → KL Sentral → direct ETS to JB Sentral → KTM Shuttle Tebrau to Woodlands, Singapore. You can stop in Hat Yai if you prefer; book the sections separately, and allow time at both international borders.
More Southeast Asian railway journeys: I’ve also put together an overall guide to train travel across Southeast Asia, with other routes and practical tips.
Bangkok to Padang Besar or Hat Yai by Sleeper Train
For the most straightforward current route, take Special Express 45 from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Padang Besar at the Malaysia border. It normally runs overnight with second-class air-conditioned sleepers and calls at Hat Yai en route. For more choice of sleeper services and the option of a first-class private cabin, travel from Bangkok to Hat Yai Junction, then connect to Padang Besar by a separate local train. Check SRT train schedules and 12Go train options for your dates.
The overnight journey to southern Thailand typically takes most of the night. Trains can run late, so I would avoid planning an extremely tight onward international connection. Current arrivals and departures are best checked with SRT D-Ticket.
First class versus second class: Private first-class sleeper cabins are an option on selected Bangkok–Hat Yai trains, including suitable services such as southbound Special Express 31. (Train 32 is the northbound return service.) But the direct Bangkok–Padang Besar Train 45 normally offers second-class sleepers. Choose the train according to the comfort you want, then plan your Hat Yai connection if necessary.
For solo travellers, the 2nd class sleeper berths would be best, and I recommend paying extra for the lower berths in 2nd class sleepers with window views at night. During the day both beds will be stored away and replaced with seating.
Bangkok to Hat Yai Junction by train
Bangkok to Hat Yai train tickets: Check current trains and availability with SRT D-Ticket or compare 12Go Asia. For the through journey to Malaysia, look for the Padang Besar service rather than booking only as far as Hat Yai.
Where to stay in Hat Yai? Compare Hat Yai hotels on Trip.com if you’d like an overnight stop.
Arrival Station at Hat Yai? Hat Yai Junction (map of Hat Yai station area here).
Stopover at Hat Yai Junction (Southern Thailand)
The old through sleeper between Bangkok and Butterworth was discontinued years ago, but today Train 45 continues from Bangkok through Hat Yai to Padang Besar. Travellers who want to spend time in Hat Yai can leave the train there and take a later local service to the border. My Malaysia–Thailand railway guide explains the border connection in more detail.
Admittedly Hat Yai isn’t the most exciting of stopovers, but it is worth the visit, and it is a convenient base for travel in the south of Thailand for those failing to find onwards travel/tickets, or are just needing a break (Hat Yai hotels here). Hat Yai is also a major hub for travel in southern Thailand, with various onward travel options including buses and minivans to all the southern coastlines and islands in Thailand like Koh Lipe (our guide to southern Thai islands here).
Hat Yai to Padang Besar by Train
For anyone breaking the journey at Hat Yai, the local third-class train to Padang Besar is one of my favourite short stretches. Proper old-school carriages, open windows, rotating fans and cool breezes. It’s proper train travel. Lots of noise, woot woot! Allow roughly an hour depending on the service, check the current SRT timetable, and remember the direct overnight Train 45 already continues to Padang Besar without requiring this change.
Train from Hat Yai to Padang Besar: Times, schedules, and online booking here.
Map of Padang Besar Immigration Checkpoint Area.
Thai/Malaysia Border Crossing at Padang Besar
For this southbound journey, you exit Thailand and enter Malaysia at Padang Besar. Eligible foreign visitors should submit Malaysia’s free Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before entry, unless exempt. Allow plenty of time for immigration and remember Malaysia is one hour ahead of Thailand. Check any visa requirement for your own passport.
Padang Besar to Butterworth and Penang by Train
It is possible to travel directly from Padang Besar to Kuala Lumpur (times, schedules and booking here) but I would personally space out the journey now with a night or two in Penang which is easy to reach from Butterworth Station.
In Malaysia you can continue from Padang Besar towards Butterworth/Penang by KTM Komuter, or choose a suitable ETS service farther south. The local Komuter trains are simple, with no reserved sleeper-style berths, and make a practical connection to Penang. Check the official KTM timetable rather than relying on fixed intervals.
Admittedly the Komuter trains in Malaysia are a bit uncomfortable when full with a mix of bus-like seats and subway-like benches making it my least favourite stretch of the journey between Thailand and Singapore. But Georgetown/Penang makes it all worthwhile.
Padang Besar to Butterworth (Penang Sentral)
Tickets from Padang Besar to Butterworth: This is a KTM Komuter service, with local ticketing rather than the advance reserved-seat booking used on ETS. Check the current Komuter Utara timetable and ticket instructions before travelling.
Where to stay in Butterworth/Penang? Hotels near Butterworth Station here and hotels in the nearby UNESCO area of Georgetown Penang here. Arrival Station at Butterworth? Butterworth Railway Station (map of Butterworth station area here.
Stopover at Penang Island
From Butterworth station, follow the signs through Penang Sentral for the passenger ferry to George Town. It’s a short crossing, but service intervals can change; check current ferry arrangements. For what to do once you arrive, see my George Town guide.
Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur by Train
After exploring Penang, return to Butterworth for a KTM ETS electric train to KL Sentral. It’s a comfortable intercity journey with reserved seats, and you can compare departures through KTM’s official booking site or 12Go Asia. I still miss the clickety-clack of Thailand’s older trains, but Malaysia’s modern trains make the long trip easy.
Popular ETS trains can sell out on weekends or holidays, so reserve your preferred departure and window seat in advance. KL Sentral is the convenient arrival point for connecting transport around Kuala Lumpur.
Stopover in Kuala Lumpur
Again, I would forever recommend a stopover in Kuala Lumpur for those who have never visited, and it’s easy to reach the various tourist areas (KLCC/Bukit Bintang/Chinatown) by Monorail or LRT (Light Rail Transit) from the KL Sentral Station (see my Kuala Lumpur attractions guide). For simple stopovers KL Sentral hotels here.
Butterworth (Penang Sentral) to Kuala Lumpur by train
Online Train Tickets for Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur? For up-to-date train times and to buy tickets online, check current services on 12Go Asia.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? Hotels near KL Sentral here and hotels in the bustling Bukit Bintang area here.
Arrival Station at Kuala Lumpur? KL Sentral Station (map of area of the KL Sentral station area here.
Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru by Direct ETS Train
Updated November 2026: Direct KTM ETS trains now connect KL Sentral with JB Sentral. The old requirement to change trains at Gemas is gone. Book through KTM or check 12Go Asia and the official ETS timetable. On our original 2022 trip we changed at Gemas, but that’s now historical rather than current route advice.
During our original journey I passed through Gemas because the southern ETS line was not finished. The scenery south of Kuala Lumpur was pleasant enough, and Tampin is an option for a separate road trip towards Melaka, but today’s through ETS service is easier.
Our 2022 Gemas Transfer (No Longer Required)
Gemas was a necessary change on our 2022 journey, not somewhere I would recommend as an essential tourist stop. You can now stay on the direct ETS service to JB Sentral instead.
Direct ETS to Johor Bahru Today
Today’s final intercity stretch is KL Sentral to JB Sentral by direct ETS. Depending on the train, allow roughly four to five hours. There is no longer any mandatory change at Gemas, but allow plenty of connection time for the separate border shuttle into Singapore.
Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru (JB Sentral) by train
Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru tickets: Check direct ETS departures through KTM or compare 12Go Asia. Don’t rely on my original 2022 Gemas timetable.
Where to stay in Johor Bahru? Browse Johor Bahru accommodation on Trip.com if you would rather spend the night before the border crossing.
Arrival Station at Johor Bahru? JB Sentral Station(map of the JB Sentral Station area here).
Johor Bahru to Singapore: Shuttle Tebrau and Immigration
There is still no through intercity train from Kuala Lumpur into central Singapore. Arrive at JB Sentral, clear the border and take the separate Shuttle Tebrau to Woodlands Train Checkpoint, or use a cross-border bus.
JB Sentral to Woodlands: KTM’s Shuttle Tebrau crosses the causeway in just a few minutes. Book separately; trains have limited seats. Allow time for passport control and check KTM’s official Shuttle Tebrau boarding guidance as well as the current timetable. KTM’s stated boarding gates at JB Sentral close before departure, so a tight connection from the ETS is risky.
I made the final crossing by bus on my original 2022 trip. This is still a useful alternative if the Shuttle Tebrau is sold out. Passengers complete immigration on each side of the causeway, then connect with local transport towards Singapore’s MRT network. Check current bus routes as services change.
Depending on the bus you take from the Woodlands crossing, you can connect to Singapore’s MRT network at Kranji or Woodlands. Remember that Woodlands Train Checkpoint is separate from Woodlands MRT, so allow time for the local transfer.
Singapore entry requirements: Most foreign visitors need to complete the free SG Arrival Card within three days of entry (unless exempt). It is not a visa. The queues can still be long at busy times: our original 2022 crossing took hours. Check the official ICA entry requirements and avoid tight connections.
Reasons Why I would never do it again?
Would I do it again? I’d probably split the journey into shorter sections. I still love train travel through Southeast Asia, but the long 2022 border queues and train changes were exhausting. The newer direct ETS service through southern Malaysia does make this route significantly easier today.
- 1. Trains in Thailand are unreliable and onward travel is unpredictable.
- 2. Popular Malaysian ETS services can fill up, so reserve a seat in advance.
- 3. Parts of the long journey through Malaysia can feel repetitive, with an awful lot of palm trees.
- 4. Immigration between Malaysia and Singapore can take hours (4 hours at weekend on our recent return).
Thailand to Singapore by Train: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you travel from Bangkok to Singapore entirely by train?
Yes. There is no single through train or through ticket, but you can connect Thai sleepers, Malaysian KTM trains and the Shuttle Tebrau across the causeway. Take a local transfer from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to Singapore’s MRT network.
Do you still need to change trains at Gemas?
No. The southern KTM ETS line now connects KL Sentral directly with JB Sentral. My 2022 trip included a change at Gemas, but this is no longer needed on the modern route.
Which Bangkok station does the train to Malaysia leave from?
The direct Bangkok–Padang Besar overnight service, Special Express 45, departs from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, not Hua Lamphong. Check the official SRT timetable before travelling.
Do you need to stop in Hat Yai?
No. Special Express 45 continues to Padang Besar after stopping at Hat Yai. A stopover is optional and gives you more flexibility to use other sleeper trains, including selected first-class cabin services.
Can you stop in Penang on the way to Singapore?
Yes. Travel from Padang Besar to Butterworth, cross by ferry to George Town and return to Butterworth for the KTM ETS to Kuala Lumpur. My Penang guide covers a worthwhile stopover.
Which arrival cards are required at the borders?
Eligible foreign travellers entering Malaysia generally submit the MDAC within three days before arrival, unless exempt. Most foreign visitors entering Singapore submit the free SG Arrival Card within three days, unless exempt. These are separate from any visas you may need.
Where should I book train tickets?
Use SRT D-Ticket for Thai trains, KTM for the Malaysian ETS and Shuttle Tebrau, and the official KTM timetable to check schedules. 12Go Asia can also help compare parts of the journey.
For ideas on where to stop along this route, see our best places to visit in Southeast Asia, based on years of independent travel.
Thank you for your info on train travel in Malaysia. Quite some years ago I travelled by train, from KL to Butterworth overnight. A really pleasant experience. I had a quarter bottle of whisky to sustain me and an upper bunk. The other passengers were friendly and I woke refreshed and ready to get the ferry over.
Thanks John. I’m the same with the whisky. Unfortunately alcohol has been on trains these days so I have to hide it in a soft drink bottle 🙂 I always opt for the lower berth in advance these days for the night views out the window.
Yes, I travelled that way from Bangkok through to Butterworth back in 1989. It was a relaxed, comfortable sleeper trip and with the added interest of a slight pause at the border while a couple of passengers were taken off the train and arrested.
It’s a shame that the route is now so broken up. I’m travelling it again, February 2023, but needing three trains.