Penang train timetable - rail service
Trains run from Butterworth to Thailand or Singapore
The Malaysian railway network has been a key part of the nation’s prosperity ever since British merchants first laid down track in 1885. Since that initial 13kms from Port Weld to Taiping was established a web of lines has developed connecting the farthest corners of the nation and beyond to Singapore and Thailand. Travelling by rail from Penang is a romantic method of transport that still echoes of a bygone era.
Intercity trains in Malaysia are supplied by KTMB, are for the most part are a safe and hassle-free way of navigating the country. Although food and toilets could certainly be improved, the prices are cheap and services generally reliable. There are no train services on Penang island itself (until the long awaited monorail arrives) so for intercity travel passengers must first take the ferry to Butterworth, where the bus and train stations are found next door to the port. For more on ferries.
Butterworth Rail Station
Butterworth Railway Station is serviced by KTMB West Coast line which runs from the northern town of Padang Besar on the Thai border all the way to Singapore (via KL) in the very south.
Trains are dwindling in popularity as buses are generally faster and more Malaysians start owing their own vehicles. The northbound International Express leaves Butterworth at 14:20 daily and arrives at Bangkok at 10:50 the next morning, calling in at Langkawi, Surat Thani, Chumpon, Hua Hin and Hat Yai en route. Trains are air conditioned and all carriages are sleepers. Other popular destinations include: Alor Setar(two hours, two daily), Kuala Kangsar (four hours, daily), KL (10 hours, daily) and Tapah Road (seven hours, daily)
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