Quick Answer
The fastest way to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to KLCC is the KLIA Ekspres train to KL Sentral (28 minutes), then transfer to the LRT Kelana Jaya Line for one stop to KLCC station (5 minutes). Total travel time: 40-50 minutes. Cost: ~$13.20/58 MYR. The most direct door-to-door option is a taxi or Grab: 50-70 minutes, ~$18-30/80-135 MYR. The cheapest option is the airport bus to KL Sentral (~$3/12-15 MYR) then LRT to KLCC, total ~$3.70/15-18 MYR but taking 70-100 minutes.
How to Get from KLIA to KLCC by Train & LRT
Reaching KLCC from KLIA involves a two-step train journey: First, take the KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit train from the airport to KL Sentral, then transfer to the LRT Kelana Jaya Line to reach KLCC station. This is the fastest and most reliable method, avoiding city traffic.
| Route | Train Type | Travel Time | Cost (Approx.) | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KLIA → KL Sentral | KLIA Ekspres (Express) | 28 min (KLIA) / 33 min (KLIA2) | $12.50 (55 MYR) | 0 (direct to KL Sentral) |
| KLIA → KL Sentral | KLIA Transit (Stops at 3 stations) | 35-39 min (KLIA) / 38-43 min (KLIA2) | $12.50 (55 MYR) | 0 (direct to KL Sentral) |
| KL Sentral → KLCC | LRT Kelana Jaya Line (Putra LRT) | 5 min (1 stop) | $0.70 (3 MYR) | 1 (at KL Sentral) |
| Total (Ekspres + LRT) | Combined Journey | 40-50 min | $13.20 (58 MYR) | 1 at KL Sentral |
Step 1: KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit to KL Sentral
From KLIA (Terminal 1) or KLIA2, follow signs to the Airport Rail Link station. KLIA Ekspres is a non-stop express service (28 minutes from KLIA, 33 from KLIA2). KLIA Transit makes 3 intermediate stops (Salak Tinggi, Putrajaya & Cyberjaya, Bandar Tasik Selatan) but costs the same and takes only 7-10 minutes longer. Both arrive at KL Sentral, Kuala Lumpur's main transportation hub. Trains run from approximately 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM, every 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: KL Sentral to KLCC via LRT
At KL Sentral, follow signs for the LRT Kelana Jaya Line (Putra LRT). Purchase a token or use a Touch 'n Go card. Take the train towards Putra Heights/ Gombak and alight at the next station: KLCC station (just 1 stop, 5 minutes). The train runs underground directly to the heart of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre. The LRT operates from approximately 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
KLCC Station Arrival & Exits
KLCC station is located directly beneath Suria KLCC shopping mall. Follow signs for the Petronas Twin Towers or your specific hotel. Key exits: Exit A (Avenue K mall), Exit C (Suria KLCC/Petronas Towers), Exit D (KLCC Park). The station is connected to the extensive Bukit Bintang-KLCC pedestrian walkway system, allowing covered access to many hotels.
Using Touch 'n Go Cards
A Touch 'n Go card is highly recommended for seamless travel on all KL public transport. You can purchase and top-up the card at KLIA Ekspres counters, KL Sentral, or any LRT station. Tap in and out for both the Airport Rail Link and LRT. Using the card is faster than buying single journey tickets and is required for some transfer discounts.
KLIA to KLCC by Airport Bus (Most Economical)
For budget travelers, the airport bus from KLIA to KL Sentral is the most economical option, followed by a short LRT ride to KLCC. Multiple bus companies (Aerobus, Skybus, Star Shuttle, etc.) operate this route from both KLIA and KLIA2. Travel time to KL Sentral is 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Cost is approximately $3 (12-15 MYR) one-way. From KL Sentral, take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line (5 minutes, $0.70/3 MYR) to KLCC station.
Airport Bus from KLIA to KL Sentral: Key Details
- Bus Companies: Aerobus, Skybus, Star Shuttle, Airport Coach, and others.
- Departure Points: KLIA (Ground Floor, Block C); KLIA2 (Level 1, Gateway@KLIA2).
- Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes, depending on company and time of day.
- Operating Hours: Approximately 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM (midnight). Some have 24-hour services (less frequent at night).
- Luggage: Dedicated storage under the bus (typically 1-2 pieces included).
- Payment: Cash (MYR) or online booking. Counters are located at the airport arrival halls.
- Destination: All buses terminate at KL Sentral's bus terminal (Nu Sentral/Level 1).
Why Choose the Airport Bus to KLCC?
The airport bus is the cheapest way to reach KLCC from the airport. It's ideal for solo travelers or those not in a rush. Buses are air-conditioned and comfortable. The main downside is unpredictable travel time due to KL's notorious traffic, especially during peak hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:00-8:00 PM). For those with heavy luggage, note you'll need to handle it from the bus to the LRT at KL Sentral.
Bus + LRT vs Direct Train to KLCC
KLIA Ekspres + LRT advantages: Much faster (40-50 min vs 70-100 min), more reliable (unaffected by road traffic), more frequent departures. Bus + LRT advantages: Significantly cheaper (~$3.70 vs ~$13.20), comfortable reclining seats on some buses. For most visitors valuing time and reliability, the train combination is the better option.
Taxi, Grab & Private Transfer from KLIA to KLCC
Taxi from KLIA to KLCC
Taking a taxi from KLIA to KLCC offers direct door-to-door convenience. Use the official Airport Taxi coupon system at designated counters in the arrival halls. Choose your vehicle class (Budget, Premier, etc.), pay a fixed fare at the counter, and receive a coupon for the driver. The distance is approximately 60-70 km. Travel time is 50-70 minutes. Fixed taxi fare to KLCC ranges from ~$18-25 (80-110 MYR) for a standard sedan, plus tolls (driver usually pays and includes in fare). This is a good option for groups of 3-4 or those with lots of luggage.
Grab (Ride-Hailing) from KLIA to KLCC
Grab (Southeast Asia's equivalent to Uber) is widely used and often cheaper than airport taxis. Designated Grab pickup zones are at both terminals (follow signs). Book via the Grab app. Estimated cost for a GrabCar to KLCC is ~$18-30 (80-135 MYR) depending on demand, time, and vehicle type. Travel time is similar to taxis. This is a convenient and transparent option as the fare is locked in the app.
Private Transfer / Pre-Booked Taxi
Private transfer services can be booked online in advance. A driver will meet you in the arrival hall with a name sign. Prices are similar to or slightly higher than airport taxis (~$25-50 / 110-220 MYR) but offer peace of mind, especially for late-night arrivals, families, or large groups needing a van. This is the most stress-free door-to-door option.
Is a Taxi/Grab Worth It to KLCC?
For 1-2 people: Train is usually better value ($13 vs $18+). For 3-4 people: Often yes, as splitting the taxi/Grab cost makes it comparable or cheaper per person than buying multiple train tickets, plus added convenience. For late-night arrivals after 1 AM when trains have stopped: Taxi/Grab is the primary option. Direct service is ideal if your hotel is not near KLCC LRT station.
KLIA to KLCC Route Map & Station Guide
The journey from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to KLCC involves a southwest to northeast route across the city. The map below illustrates the key transport corridors: the KLIA Ekspres/Transit rail line running from the airport to KL Sentral, and the connecting LRT Kelana Jaya Line from KL Sentral to KLCC station.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from KLIA to KLCC on Google Maps
Detailed Station List & Stops
KLIA Ekspres Route (Non-stop): KLIA Terminal 1 → KLIA Terminal 2 (KLIA2) → KL Sentral.
KLIA Transit Route (3 Stops): KLIA T1 → KLIA T2 → Salak Tinggi → Putrajaya & Cyberjaya → Bandar Tasik Selatan → KL Sentral.
LRT Kelana Jaya Line (to KLCC): KL Sentral → (Pasar Seni) → (Masjid Jamek) → KLCC → (Ampang Park) → ... continues east.
Note: Some northbound LRT trains from KL Sentral may not stop at Pasar Seni and Masjid Jamek; all stop at KLCC.
The road distance from KLIA to KLCC is approximately 65 km (40 miles) via the ELITE Highway and AKLEH Expressway. During rush hours, travel time by road can exceed 90 minutes. The train is unaffected by road traffic.
KLIA to KLCC: Ticketing, Fares & Travel Passes
| Transport Option | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost (One Way) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KLIA Ekspres + LRT | 40-50 minutes | $13.20 (58 MYR) Ekspres: $12.50 (55 MYR) LRT: $0.70 (3 MYR) |
1 at KL Sentral | Speed, reliability, most visitors |
| KLIA Transit + LRT | 50-60 minutes | $13.20 (58 MYR) Transit: $12.50 (55 MYR) LRT: $0.70 (3 MYR) |
1 at KL Sentral | Same speed as Ekspres if boarding at KLIA2, slightly more stops |
| Airport Bus + LRT | 70-100 minutes | $3.70 (15-18 MYR) Bus: ~$3 (12-15 MYR) LRT: $0.70 (3 MYR) |
1 at KL Sentral (Bus to LRT) | Budget travelers, not time-sensitive |
| Taxi (Airport Coupon) | 50-70 minutes | $18-25 (80-110 MYR) (Fixed fare, includes tolls) |
0 (door-to-door) | Groups of 3-4, convenience |
| Grab / Ride-Hail | 50-70 minutes | $18-30 (80-135 MYR) (Surge pricing possible) |
0 (door-to-door) | Transparent pricing, convenience |
| Private Transfer | 50-70 minutes | $25-50 (110-220 MYR) | 0 (door-to-door) | Families, luxury, pre-booked peace of mind |
KLIA Ekspres & Transit Tickets
KLIA Ekspres/Transit tickets to KL Sentral cost 55 MYR ($12.50) for adults. Purchase at airport station counters or automated machines (cash/card). Return tickets (100 MYR / ~$22.50) offer a 10 MYR saving. Children under 4 travel free. The journey is the same price from both KLIA and KLIA2. Tickets are for a specific date but not a specific train time (valid for any train that day).
Touch 'n Go Card & MyCity Pass
The Touch 'n Go (TnG) card is essential for seamless travel on LRT, MRT, Monorail, and buses. Purchase for 10 MYR (non-refundable) and load with credit. Tap in/out for each journey. For tourists making many trips, the MyCity Pass (unlimited daily travel on Rapid KL services) for 5 MYR (1-day) or 15 MYR (3-day) may offer savings, but note it does NOT cover the KLIA Ekspres/Transit.
Traveler Experience: Getting to KLCC from KLIA
Arriving at KLIA or KLIA2, the journey to KLCC is straightforward. The airport is modern with clear signage in English. The KLIA Ekspres is efficient and feels like a premium service, with luggage racks and WiFi. The transfer at KL Sentral is well-signposted but involves some walking (~5-10 minutes) from the Airport Rail Link platform to the LRT platforms. The LRT to KLCC is quick but can be crowded during peak hours. KLCC station exits directly into the upscale Suria KLCC mall, providing a cool, covered arrival at the foot of the Petronas Twin Towers. For first-timers, the train+LRT combo is easy to navigate. Those opting for a taxi or Grab will appreciate the door-to-door service, especially after a long flight with luggage. The overall experience is efficient and reflects Kuala Lumpur's status as a modern global city.
Practical Tips & Advice for KLIA to KLCC
- With luggage: KLIA Ekspres has luggage racks. The walk at KL Sentral between lines is indoors but can be 5-10 minutes. Taxi/Grab is easier with multiple/heavy bags.
- First-time visitor tip: Follow the clear green "ERL" (Express Rail Link) signs in the airport to the train station. Buy a Touch 'n Go card at the airport station for your entire stay.
- Late night travel (after 1 AM): Last KLIA Ekspres/Transit departs around 1:00 AM. After this, options are: taxi (24/7 coupon counter), pre-booked transfer, or Grab. Airport buses have limited late-night schedules.
- Early morning arrivals (before 5 AM): First trains start around 5:00 AM. Taxis and some airport buses are available earlier.
- With kids or elderly: Taxi/private transfer is easiest. Train+LRT is manageable but involves walking and transfers at KL Sentral.
- Cost-saving tip: Airport bus + LRT is the cheapest. For 2+ people, a Grab can sometimes be similar in total cost to two train tickets and is more convenient.
- Time-saving tip: KLIA Ekspres is fastest during rush hour (unaffected by traffic). For ultimate speed, take the Ekspres, then a Grab from KL Sentral to your hotel if it's not near KLCC station.
- Group travel (3-4 people): A taxi or Grab is often more cost-effective and convenient than buying 3-4 train tickets.
- Buying tickets: Buy KLIA Ekspres tickets at the airport station. Buy LRT tokens or use TnG card at KL Sentral. Get taxi coupons at official counters, not from touts.
- Weekend vs weekday: Friday evening and Sunday evening traffic is heaviest - add 30+ minutes for bus/taxi travel time. Train timing is consistent.
- Hotel location: Most KLCC-area hotels (Traders, Mandarin Oriental, Grand Hyatt, etc.) are within 5-15 minutes walk from KLCC LRT station. Confirm the closest station to your hotel.
- Return trip to KLIA: From KLCC, take LRT to KL Sentral (5 min), then KLIA Ekspres/Transit to airport. Allow 60+ minutes for the journey plus recommended 3 hours for international check-in.
- Mobile apps: Download "Grab" for ride-hailing, "Moovit" or "Google Maps" for public transport routing, and "KLIA Ekspres" for train schedules.
- Money: Have some Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) cash for bus tickets, LRT token machines, or as a backup. Cards are widely accepted for train tickets and taxis.
Frequently Asked Questions: KLIA to KLCC
What is the best way to get from KLIA to KLCC?
The fastest way is the KLIA Ekspres train to KL Sentral (28 minutes, ~$12.50/55 MYR), then a short LRT/Monorail ride to KLCC (5-10 minutes, ~$0.70/3 MYR). Total travel time: 40-50 minutes. For direct door-to-door service: Taxi or Grab (50-70 minutes, ~$18-30/80-135 MYR). For budget travelers: Airport Bus to KL Sentral (60+ minutes, ~$3/12-15 MYR) then connect to KLCC.
Is there a direct train from KLIA to KLCC?
No direct train. The KLIA Ekspres train goes directly to KL Sentral station only (28 minutes). From KL Sentral, you need to transfer: Take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line (5 minutes, 1 stop) to KLCC station, or the Monorail to Bukit Nanas then walk to KLCC (10-15 minutes).
How do I get from KLIA2 to KLCC?
From KLIA2, take the KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit train (same platform) to KL Sentral (33-39 minutes, ~$12.50/55 MYR), then transfer to LRT to KLCC. Alternatively, take a taxi/Grab directly (55-75 minutes, ~$20-35/90-155 MYR) or airport bus to KL Sentral then transfer.
What is the cheapest way from KLIA to KLCC?
Airport bus (Airliner, Skybus, or others) to KL Sentral (~$3/12-15 MYR, 60-90 minutes), then LRT to KLCC (~$0.70/3 MYR, 5 minutes). Total about $3.70-4/15-18 MYR. This is the most budget-friendly option but takes the longest time and is subject to traffic delays.
How long is the taxi ride from KLIA to KLCC?
50-70 minutes depending on traffic. Distance is about 60-70 km (37-43 miles). Fixed fare airport taxis cost ~$18-25/80-110 MYR. Ride-hailing apps (Grab) are similar: ~$18-30/80-135 MYR depending on vehicle type and demand.
Does the KLIA Ekspres stop at KLCC?
No, KLIA Ekspres is a non-stop express train between KLIA/KLIA2 and KL Sentral only. To reach KLCC, you must transfer at KL Sentral to the LRT Kelana Jaya Line (5 minutes, 1 stop) or take a taxi/Grab from KL Sentral (10-15 minutes).
Is there an airport bus from KLIA to KLCC?
No direct airport bus to KLCC. Airport buses go to KL Sentral transportation hub. From there, you can take LRT (5 minutes) or taxi (10-15 minutes) to KLCC. Buses like Aerobus, Skybus, and Star Shuttle serve this route from both KLIA and KLIA2 terminals.
Should I buy a KLIA Ekspres ticket in advance?
Not necessary. Tickets are available at airport stations upon arrival. However, you can book online for convenience. Return tickets (100 MYR) offer savings if you're taking the train back to the airport. Ekspres trains run every 15-20 minutes from 5am to 1am.
What is the best option for late night arrival at KLIA?
Taxi or Grab. KLIA Ekspres last train departs around 1am. Airport buses run less frequently late night. Taxis are available 24/7 at designated airport taxi counters. Pre-booked private transfers are also reliable for late arrivals.
Where is KLCC station in relation to the Petronas Towers?
KLCC LRT station is directly beneath the Suria KLCC shopping mall, which is connected to the Petronas Towers. Exit the station into the mall, follow signs to the towers. Walking time from train platform to tower base is 5-10 minutes through the mall or outdoor park.