Quick Answer
The best way to travel from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) to Lubuklinggau is by train. The most efficient route is: take a taxi or ride-hailing service from the airport to Kertapati Station in Palembang (~30-45 mins), then board the direct Sriwijaya train to Lubuklinggau. The total journey takes approximately 7 to 10 hours and costs between IDR 300,000 to 800,000 (USD $20-$55), depending on your choice of taxi and train class.
By Train: The Most Scenic and Reliable Route
The train journey from Palembang to Lubuklinggau is the most balanced option, offering comfort, reasonable cost, and beautiful views of South Sumatra's landscapes. There is no train station at the airport, requiring a short transfer to the city's main station.
Step-by-Step Guide & Route Options
Step 1: Airport to Kertapati Station
Upon exiting arrivals, use the official taxi counter, a ride-hailing app (Gojek/Grab), or a pre-booked driver. The 15-20 km trip takes 30-45 minutes and costs IDR 80,000 - 150,000.
Step 2: Palembang (Kertapati) to Lubuklinggau by Train
The primary service is the Sriwijaya train. It's crucial to check the schedule, as departures are not hourly.
| Train Name / Type | Departure Frequency | Approx. Journey Time | Key Features & Classes | Price Range (IDR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sriwijaya (Recommended) | 1-2 times daily | 6 - 8 hours | Executive & Business Class. Air-conditioned, relatively comfortable seats, food cart service. | 200,000 - 500,000 |
| Local/Economy Trains | Infrequent | 8+ hours | Basic seating, no AC, stops at many stations. For budget travelers seeking an authentic local experience. | Under 150,000 |
Source: Official PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Schedule.
Booking Tips & Onboard Experience
⢠Book in Advance: Use KAI's official website or app. Tickets for Executive class can sell out days ahead, especially before weekends.
⢠Luggage: Space is available overhead and at the ends of carriages. There are no strict size/weight limits for standard luggage.
⢠Food: Bring snacks and water. While some trains have a food cart, options are limited.
By Domestic Flight: Is it an Option?
Currently, there are no direct commercial flights between Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) and Lubuklinggau. The nearest airport with potential connecting flights is in Bengkulu or Jakarta, which makes flying an impractical and time-consuming choice for this specific route.
Why Flying is Not Recommended
- No Direct Route: You would need to fly from PLM to Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta), wait for a connection, then fly back to Bengkulu, followed by a 4-5 hour overland journey to Lubuklinggau.
- Total "Door-to-Door" Time: This convoluted journey would take 12+ hours and cost significantly more than the direct train.
- Cost Inefficiency: The combined cost of two flight tickets plus ground transport would easily exceed IDR 2,000,000 (USD $135).
Verdict: For travel between Palembang and Lubuklinggau, air travel is not a viable option. Always check current flight schedules on aggregator sites like Skyscanner, but expect the train or bus to be the only practical public transport.
By Bus: The Most Economical Choice
For budget-conscious travelers, the bus is the cheapest public transport. However, it requires a transfer in Palembang city.
Detailed Route & Options
Step 1: Airport to Palembang Bus Terminal
Take a Damri airport shuttle bus or a ride-hailing car from the airport to either Alang-Alang Lebar Terminal or Karya Jaya Terminal. This takes 45-60 minutes and costs IDR 25,000 - 70,000.
Step 2: Intercity Bus to Lubuklinggau
From the terminal, purchase a ticket for an intercity bus. There are two main types:
- Day Buses: Depart throughout the morning/afternoon. You travel while it's light, allowing for scenery.
- Night Buses (Recommended for efficiency): Depart in the evening (6-10 PM), arriving in Lubuklinggau early morning. This saves on a night's accommodation.
Bus Classes & What to Expect
| Bus Class | Features | Price (IDR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Basic seats, minimal legroom, often no AC, frequent stops. | 120,000 - 180,000 | Ultra-budget travel. |
| Executive (Recommended) | Reclining seats (semi-bed), AC, TV, blanket, sometimes a meal. Less frequent stops. | 200,000 - 300,000 | Most travelers seeking balance. |
Key Tips: Book your bus ticket in advance via apps like RedBus. Keep your valuables with you. The total journey time is 8-12 hours, heavily dependent on road traffic conditions.
By Taxi or Private Car Hire: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most direct but also the most expensive method, suitable only for specific circumstances.
Cost & Booking
You can hire a private car with a driver for the entire ~300-350 km journey.
- Price Range: IDR 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 (USD $100 - $170) for a one-way trip.
- Booking: Arrange through a reputable travel agency in Palembang or use a premium ride-hailing service option. Negotiate the price and itinerary upfront.
- Travel Time: Approximately 7-9 hours, depending on breaks and road conditions.
When Does This Option Make Sense?
Consider a private car only if:
- You are traveling in a group of 3-4 people, splitting the cost.
- You have a lot of luggage or special equipment.
- You arrive late at night after the last train/bus has departed.
- You have mobility issues or require maximum flexibility and privacy.
For the vast majority of solo travelers, couples, and budget seekers, this option is not cost-effective.
Tickets & Cost Comparison Table
This table summarizes all options to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Time | Approx. Total Cost (IDR) | Comfort & Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Executive) | 7 - 10 hours | 300,000 - 800,000 | High. Scenic, reliable, fewer stops. | Most travelers (Best Overall) |
| Bus (Executive) | 8 - 12 hours | 250,000 - 400,000 | Medium. Subject to traffic, but comfortable seats. | Budget travelers, night travel |
| Bus (Economy) | 9 - 13 hours | 150,000 - 250,000 | Low. Basic amenities, frequent stops. | Cheapest Option |
| Private Car | 7 - 9 hours | 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 | Very High. Door-to-door, flexible. | Groups, special needs, late arrival |
| Flight | 12+ hours (with connections) | 2,000,000+ | Medium (for air part). Very low overall due to long total transit. | Not recommended for this route |
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond schedules and prices, hereâs practical advice from seasoned travelers on this route.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book Everything Early: Train and executive bus seats sell out, especially on Fridays, Sundays, and before national holidays. Use official apps (KAI, RedBus) for reliable bookings.
- Manage Your Time: Factor in at least 1.5 hours for the transfer from PLM Airport to Palembang's train station or bus terminal. Flight arrivals can be delayed.
- Cash is King: While major terminals and apps accept cards, having Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) cash is essential for taxis, snacks, and small vendors.
- Stay Connected: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for navigation and booking apps. Wi-Fi on trains and buses is unreliable.
- Pack Smart: Bring layers (AC can be cold), headphones, snacks, water, toilet paper, and a power bank.
Navigating Key Challenges
⢠Arriving Late at Night: If your flight lands after the last train/bus has departed, your options are limited to an expensive overnight stay in Palembang or a costly private car hire. Plan your flight schedule accordingly.
⢠Luggage Hassle: If you have large suitcases, the train is easier than the bus. For minimal hassle, consider sending large bags via a courier service like JNE or TIKI from Palembang to your Lubuklinggau hotelâthis is a common and affordable practice in Indonesia.
⢠Language: Learn basic Indonesian phrases or have your destination written down in Bahasa Indonesia. Not all drivers or ticket counter staff speak English.
FAQs: Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport to Lubuklinggau
What is the best way to get from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport to Lubuklinggau?
For most travelers, the train is the best overall option, offering a good balance of cost, comfort, and scenic value. The most recommended route involves taking a taxi from the airport to Palembang's Kertapati Station, then the Sriwijaya train to Lubuklinggau (total ~7-10 hours).
Is there a direct bus from the airport to Lubuklinggau?
No, there is no direct bus. You must first travel from the airport to Palembang's bus terminal (e.g., Alang-Alang Lebar). From there, you can find intercity buses to Lubuklinggau. The total journey typically takes 8-12 hours depending on traffic.
How much does a taxi cost from the airport to Lubuklinggau?
A private taxi or car hire for the entire 300+ km journey is very expensive, ranging from IDR 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 (USD $100-$170) one-way. It is generally not recommended for budget travelers and is only suitable for groups or those with special needs.
Can I fly from Palembang to Lubuklinggau?
As of now, there are no direct commercial flights between Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) and Lubuklinggau's airport. The train or bus are the main public transport options for this route.
What is the cheapest way to travel from PLM Airport to Lubuklinggau?
The cheapest option is a combination of a local bus from the airport to Palembang's bus terminal, followed by an economy intercity bus to Lubuklinggau. The total cost can be as low as IDR 150,000 - 250,000 (USD $10-$17).
How long is the train journey from Palembang to Lubuklinggau?
The direct Sriwijaya train from Palembang's Kertapati Station to Lubuklinggau takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on the specific service and schedule.
Is it safe to travel by night bus to Lubuklinggau?
Night buses are generally safe and a popular choice to save time. It's crucial to book with a reputable company (like RedBus), keep valuables secure, and choose an executive class for better security and comfort.
Where can I buy train tickets from Palembang to Lubuklinggau?
Tickets can be purchased online through official channels like KAI Access or travel apps, at the Kertapati Station ticket counter, or via authorized travel agents in Palembang. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.