Quick Answer
The best and most convenient way from Pasar Payang (Central Market) to Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) is by taxi or Grab. The journey covers only 7 km and takes 10–15 minutes, costing between RM 12 and RM 20 (USD 2.60–4.30). For the cheapest option, take public bus route T10 at RM 2.50 (USD 0.55), but expect a 35–45 minute ride with limited frequency. No train or flight is practical for this short city-to-airport route.
Train Connection from Kuala Terengganu to Other Cities
Please note: There is no train service from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport. The distance is only 7 km and no railway line connects the city centre directly to the airport. However, if you are arriving in Kuala Terengganu by intercity train and need to reach the airport, here is what you need to know.
Nearest Train Station: Wakaf Tapai Railway Station
The nearest station to Kuala Terengganu is Wakaf Tapai Railway Station, located about 30 km southwest of the city centre. It is part of KTM's East Coast Line, connecting Tumpat (Kota Bharu) to Gemas (with onward connections to Johor Bahru and Singapore).
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Wakaf Tapai Railway Station (KTMB code: WFT) |
| Distance from Pasar Payang | ~30 km (40–50 min by taxi) |
| Distance from Airport (TGG) | ~35 km (45–55 min by taxi) |
| Main Line | KTM East Coast Line (Jungle Railway) |
| Typical Fare from KL (example) | RM 45–70 (USD 9.70–15.10) depending on class |
| Station Facilities | Ticket counter, waiting hall, basic toilet, small kiosk |
How to Combine Train + Taxi to Reach the Airport
- Step 1: Take a train to Wakaf Tapai Station from cities like Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral), Gemas, or Kota Bharu. The ETS (Electric Train Service) does not run on this line; only diesel KTM Intercity trains.
- Step 2: From Wakaf Tapai Station, take a taxi or Grab directly to Sultan Mahmud Airport. The ride takes ~45–55 minutes and costs around RM 40–55 (USD 8.60–11.80).
- Step 3: Alternatively, take a taxi from Wakaf Tapai to Pasar Payang first (RM 35–45, 40 min), then transfer to an airport taxi or bus — but this adds unnecessary detour time.
Train vs. Direct Bus from KL to Kuala Terengganu
For travellers coming from Kuala Lumpur, the intercity train is not the most efficient way to reach Sultan Mahmud Airport. A direct express bus from KL (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) to Kuala Terengganu takes 5–6 hours and costs RM 35–55 (USD 7.50–11.80), arriving at the city bus terminal within walking distance of Pasar Payang. From there, a short taxi ride gets you to the airport.
Verdict: The train is a scenic but slow option for reaching Kuala Terengganu. Once you are in the city, a taxi or bus to the airport is straightforward. For the direct Pasar Payang → Airport journey, skip the train entirely.
Source: KTMB Official Website
Flights from Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) — What You Need to Know
Sultan Mahmud Airport (IATA: TGG) is the main air gateway for Terengganu state. It is located just 7 km north of Kuala Terengganu city centre, making it one of Malaysia's most accessible airports from downtown. Below is a detailed breakdown of airlines, destinations, and how to get from Pasar Payang to the departure terminal.
Airlines & Destinations from TGG
| Airline | Destination | Flight Frequency | Flight Time | Estimated Fare (one-way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malaysia Airlines | Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | 3–4 daily | 55 min | RM 120–250 (USD 25.80–53.80) |
| AirAsia | Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | 2–3 daily | 55 min | RM 80–180 (USD 17.20–38.70) |
| Firefly | Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | 2 daily | 55 min | RM 100–200 (USD 21.50–43.00) |
| AirAsia | Johor Bahru (JHB) | 1–2 daily | 1 hr 10 min | RM 90–170 (USD 19.40–36.60) |
| Malaysia Airlines | Penang (PEN) | 1 daily (variable) | 1 hr 15 min | RM 140–260 (USD 30.10–55.90) |
From Pasar Payang to the Airport Terminal
- By taxi/Grab (recommended): 10–15 minutes, RM 12–20 (USD 2.60–4.30). Direct drop-off at the departure hall.
- By public bus T10: 35–45 minutes, RM 2.50 (USD 0.55). The bus stops about 150 m from the terminal entrance.
- By hotel shuttle: Some hotels near Pasar Payang offer airport transfer for RM 20–35 (USD 4.30–7.50). Check with your hotel front desk.
Check-in & Security Timing
- Domestic flights: Check-in counters close 30 minutes before departure. Security screening takes 5–15 minutes on average.
- International flights (limited charters): Arrive at least 2 hours before departure. TGG has a small international terminal with basic facilities.
- Peak periods: During school holidays (March, June, August, December) and Hari Raya, queues can be longer. Add 20–30 minutes buffer.
Is Flying Relevant for the Pasar Payang → Airport Route?
Flying is not a way to travel from Pasar Payang to the airport — the airport is your destination. This section helps you understand what to expect after you arrive at TGG. If you are connecting to another flight, the information above will help you plan your schedule.
Sources: Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Firefly
Bus & Public Transport from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport
Public bus service is the most economical way to travel between Pasar Payang and Sultan Mahmud Airport. While not as fast or frequent as a taxi, it is a reliable option for budget-conscious travellers and those with light luggage.
Route T10: Pasar Payang → Sultan Mahmud Airport
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | Perbadanan Pengangkutan Awam Terengganu (PPAT) |
| Route Number | T10 (also known as "Pengkalan Nangka – Airport") |
| Boarding Point (Pasar Payang) | Bus stop at Jalan Sultan Ismail, ~200 m from Pasar Payang main entrance |
| Drop-off Point (Airport) | Bus stop on Jalan Lapangan Terbang, ~150 m walk to terminal |
| Frequency | Every 60–90 minutes (6:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily) |
| Journey Time | 35–45 minutes (including traffic and stops) |
| Fare | RM 2.50 (USD 0.55) — exact change required |
| Payment | Cash only (no Touch 'n Go card on this route) |
How to Ride the T10 Bus — Step by Step
- Locate the bus stop: From Pasar Payang's main entrance (Jalan Sultan Ismail side), walk left about 200 metres towards the intersection with Jalan Masjid Abidin. The bus stop is marked "PPAT T10".
- Check the timetable: Buses run roughly every hour. A printed schedule is posted at the stop, but it is not always up to date. Using a ride-hailing app as backup is wise.
- Board and pay: Enter the bus, tell the driver "Lapangan Terbang" (airport), and pay RM 2.50 in cash. The driver will issue a paper ticket.
- Ride and alight: The bus travels via Jalan Sultan Mahmud and Jalan Lapangan Terbang. The airport stop is marked by a small shelter. From there, a short walk brings you to the terminal.
- Allow buffer time: Because of the limited frequency, plan to arrive at the bus stop at least 10 minutes before the expected departure time.
Other Bus Options
- Route T11 (Mengabang Telipot – Airport): Also serves the airport but takes a longer route through Gong Badak. Not recommended from Pasar Payang as T10 is more direct.
- City Shuttle (Free): The Kuala Terengganu City Council operates a free shuttle (Bas Bandar) within the city core, but it does not reach the airport.
- Night bus: There is no overnight bus service to Sultan Mahmud Airport. The last T10 bus departs the city around 6:30 PM. For early morning flights (before 8:00 AM), a taxi or Grab is your only option.
Bus vs. Taxi — Which Should You Choose?
- Choose the bus if: You are travelling alone, on a strict budget, have only a small backpack, and your flight is between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
- Choose a taxi/Grab if: You have checked luggage, are travelling with family, have an early morning or late evening flight, or value time and convenience.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Grab) from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport
For most travellers, taxi or Grab is the recommended choice for the short 7 km journey from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport. It is fast, affordable, and door-to-door. Below is a detailed comparison of all ride-hailing and taxi options.
Option A: GrabCar (Most Popular)
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Estimated Fare | RM 12–RM 18 (USD 2.60–3.90) |
| Travel Time | 10–15 minutes (direct via Jalan Sultan Mahmud) |
| Availability | 24/7, though limited between 3:00–5:00 AM |
| Booking | Via Grab app (iOS/Android); can pre-book up to 7 days in advance |
| Payment | Cash, GrabPay wallet, or credit/debit card |
| Vehicle Types | GrabCar (4 pax), GrabCar Plus (comfort), GrabCar XL (6 pax) |
Option B: Airport Taxi (Fixed Price)
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Estimated Fare | RM 15–RM 20 (USD 3.20–4.30) fixed price |
| Travel Time | 10–15 minutes |
| Booking | At taxi counter inside airport arrival hall (for airport → city) or via phone call for city → airport |
| Payment | Cash only (RM) |
| Notes | Fixed price means no surge pricing; vehicles are older sedans or MPVs |
Option C: Hotel Taxi / Private Transfer
- Cost: RM 25–RM 40 (USD 5.40–8.60) — more expensive than Grab
- Best for: Guests who want a pre-arranged pickup at their hotel, especially for early morning flights.
- Availability: Can be arranged through hotel concierge; requires at least 4 hours advance notice.
When to Choose Each Option
- Grab is the best all-round choice for most travellers: transparent pricing, easy booking, and cashless payment.
- Airport taxi is a good backup if Grab is unavailable (e.g., very early morning) or if you prefer a fixed price without relying on an app.
- Hotel transfer is worth considering only if you have special requirements (child seat, wheelchair access, or very large luggage).
Important Tips for Taxi & Grab Users
- Peak hours: Traffic on Jalan Sultan Mahmud can be heavy during morning rush (7:30–9:00 AM) and evening rush (5:00–7:00 PM). Add 5–10 minutes to your journey during these times.
- Airport pickup area: If you are arriving at the airport and need a ride to the city, the Grab pickup point is just outside the arrival hall. Follow the "e-hailing pickup" signs.
- Late-night surcharge: Grab applies a small late-night surcharge (midnight – 5:00 AM) of about RM 2–4 (USD 0.40–0.90).
- Driver tip: Tipping is not expected in Malaysia, but rounding up the fare (e.g., RM 15 instead of RM 13) is appreciated for good service.
Source: Grab Malaysia
Cost & Travel Time Comparison — All Options at a Glance
Use the table below to quickly compare every available way to get from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport. Prices and times are based on standard conditions and may vary slightly.
| Transport Mode | Travel Time | Cost (RM) | Cost (USD) | Frequency / Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GrabCar ★ Best Overall | 10–15 min | RM 12–18 | USD 2.60–3.90 | 24/7 (limited 3–5 AM) | Most travellers, speed & value |
| Airport Taxi | 10–15 min | RM 15–20 | USD 3.20–4.30 | 24/7 (call to book) | Backup option, fixed price |
| Public Bus T10 ★ Cheapest | 35–45 min | RM 2.50 | USD 0.55 | Every 60–90 min (6 AM–7 PM) | Budget solo travellers, light luggage |
| Hotel Shuttle | 15–20 min | RM 25–40 | USD 5.40–8.60 | By arrangement only | Guests with special needs |
| Walking (not recommended) | ~1 hr 20 min | RM 0 | USD 0 | Always available | Not suitable — no pedestrian path |
Which Option Should You Pick?
- 🔹 Best Overall: GrabCar — fast, cheap, and reliable. Recommended for 9 out of 10 travellers.
- 🔹 Cheapest: Public Bus T10 — at RM 2.50, it is hard to beat. Best for backpackers and budget travellers.
- 🔹 Most Convenient: Airport Taxi — no app needed, fixed price. Good for those who prefer traditional taxis.
- 🔹 Most Comfortable: Hotel Shuttle or GrabCar Plus — if you want a roomier vehicle.
Where to Book
- Grab: Download the app from grab.com/my (iOS/Android).
- Airport taxi: Call the Kuala Terengganu Airport taxi hotline at +60 9-667 1234 (local landline).
- Bus info: PPAT route T10 — no online booking; simply wait at the bus stop.
- Hotel shuttle: Ask your hotel concierge at least 4 hours before departure.
Sources: Grab Malaysia, PPAT, Sultan Mahmud Airport official contacts
Traveler Tips & Local Insights for a Smooth Journey
Based on local knowledge and frequent traveller feedback, here are eight practical tips to make your trip from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport as smooth as possible.
1. 🧳 Luggage — Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery) for Heavy Bags
If you have large or multiple suitcases, consider using Takkyubin (baggage delivery service) available at selected hotels near Pasar Payang. For around RM 30–45 (USD 6.50–9.70) per bag, your luggage will be delivered directly to the airport for same-day or next-day pickup. This lets you explore the market hands-free before heading to the airport. Check with your hotel front desk or visit takkyubin.my for details.
2. ⏰ Flight Time vs. Traffic — The 2-Hour Rule
For domestic flights, leave Pasar Payang 1.5 hours before departure. For international flights, leave 2 hours before. Traffic on Jalan Sultan Mahmud can be unpredictable during school holidays and long weekends (especially Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and year-end school break). When in doubt, add 30 minutes.
3. 📱 Download Grab Before You Arrive
If you are a first-time visitor to Malaysia, download the Grab app and register your payment method before you arrive at Pasar Payang. This saves time and avoids the need to find an ATM for cash. Grab also offers a "Share My Ride" feature so you can send your ETA to friends or family.
4. 🚌 Bus Timing — Don't Rely on Google Maps Alone
Google Maps shows bus route T10 but the real-time arrival data is not always accurate for Kuala Terengganu. Use the PPAT official website or call the bus hotline (+60 9-622 1571) to confirm the schedule before waiting at the stop.
5. 🏪 Pasar Payang — Plan Your Visit Around the Bus Schedule
Pasar Payang (Central Market) is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM). If you are taking the T10 bus, time your market visit so you are at the bus stop by 10:00 AM or 2:30 PM — the two most reliable departure windows based on local reports.
6. 💰 Cash Still Matters
While Grab and some taxis accept cards, the public bus requires exact cash (RM 2.50). Many small shops near Pasar Payang can break larger notes if you buy a drink (RM 1–2). Keep a stash of small notes (RM 1, RM 5, RM 10) for transport and market purchases.
7. 🧭 Station Navigation — Simple at TGG
Sultan Mahmud Airport is small and easy to navigate. The departure hall has 8 check-in counters, a small food court (with local staples like nasi lemak and kopi), and a souvenir shop. Security screening is usually quick — 5–10 minutes on normal days. There is no VIP lounge for domestic passengers, but the waiting area is air-conditioned and clean.
8. 🌧️ Weather — Rain Can Delay Your Ride
Kuala Terengganu experiences heavy monsoon rains from November to February. During downpours, Grab prices may surge (1.5×–2× normal) and traffic slows down. If you are travelling in the monsoon season, book your Grab 10–15 minutes earlier than usual, or walk to the main road (Jalan Sultan Mahmud) where taxis are easier to hail.
Insights compiled from local tourism forums and frequent traveller reports.
FAQs: Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
No. There is no train service between Pasar Payang and the airport. The distance is only 7 km and no rail line connects the city centre to TGG. The nearest train station (Wakaf Tapai) is 30 km away and requires a separate taxi ride to the airport. For this route, a taxi or bus is your only practical option.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
A standard taxi or Grab costs between RM 12 and RM 20 (USD 2.60–4.30). Fixed-price airport taxis are available at the airport counter for around RM 15 (USD 3.20). Prices are stable and rarely exceed RM 25 (USD 5.40) even during peak hours.
3. How long does it take to get from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
By car, taxi, or Grab: 10–15 minutes. By public bus (T10): 35–45 minutes. Walking is not recommended as the 7 km route has no continuous footpath. Always add 5–10 minutes buffer during heavy traffic or monsoon rain.
4. Is there a bus from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
Yes. Route T10 operated by PPAT runs from a stop near Pasar Payang (Jalan Sultan Ismail) to the airport. The fare is RM 2.50 (USD 0.55) and the journey takes about 35–45 minutes. Buses run every 60–90 minutes from approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. No night service is available.
5. What is the cheapest way to get from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
The cheapest way is by public bus T10 at RM 2.50 (USD 0.55). If you are travelling with 2 or 3 people, splitting a Grab (RM 4–6 per person) is almost as cheap and much faster. Walking is free but unsafe and impractical on this route.
6. How early should I leave Pasar Payang for a flight at Sultan Mahmud Airport?
For domestic flights, leave at least 1.5 hours before departure. For international flights, leave 2 hours before. This gives you enough time for the 15-minute ride, check-in (if not done online), and security screening. During public holidays or monsoon season, add 20–30 minutes.
7. Can I book a Grab from Pasar Payang to Sultan Mahmud Airport?
Yes, absolutely. Grab is widely available in Kuala Terengganu. Simply open the app, set pickup as "Pasar Payang (Central Market)" and destination as "Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG)". The fare is typically RM 12–RM 18 (USD 2.60–3.90). You can pre-book up to 7 days in advance. Availability is 24/7, though slightly limited between 3:00–5:00 AM.
8. Which is better: taxi or bus from Pasar Payang to the airport?
For most travellers, a taxi or Grab is better — it is faster (10–15 min vs. 35–45 min), only slightly more expensive (RM 12–20 vs. RM 2.50), and door-to-door. The bus is a good choice only if you are travelling alone with light luggage, on a very tight budget, and your flight is between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For families, groups, or anyone with checked luggage, a taxi is strongly recommended.