​​KL’s public transit system is superb. Taxis, buses, trains, and the metro will get you wherever in the city. Yet, KL’s primary intersections are frequently jam-packed with people. A sophisticated light rail system connects the northern and southern parts of Kuala Lumpur and the eastern and western parts of the city (though, unfortunately, not all stations are connected). The metro system in Kuala Lumpur is highly convenient and offers passengers a high level of comfort.

​

Metro in KL

​​

• KL’s subway system, or MRT, is widely used by the city’s residents. Light Rail Transit (LRT) stops include large route maps that detail the metro’s many stops throughout the city. Each station has a tiny kiosk where you may purchase a map. You can purchase tickets from either the vending machines or the cashier. The Touch ‘N Go prepaid card can be swiped at the LRT gate, and daily passes and other special tickets are also available. Typically, the fare is RM1.20 between two connected stations.

• Three different LRT routes serve Kuala Lumpur. In alphabetical order, they are known as RapidKL, KTM Komuter, and the KL Monorail. While stations may not always be linked, they allow for citywide mobility when taken as a whole. The KL Monorail cuts through the city's heart, while RapidKL and KTM Komuter go out to all the outskirts.

• Traveling across Kuala Lumpur on the KL Monorail will be a pleasurable and stress-free experience for visitors. Despite the frequent train service (every 3–4 minutes), it’s best to avoid riding the KL Monorail during rush hour, as this is how many Malaysians get to and from work.

• There are trains to Kuala Lumpur International Airport that leave from KL Sentral, the “central hub” for all LRT operators. 

• Rapid Rail operates elevated KL Monorail as well as LRT and MRT. One route from KL Sentral to Titiwangsa has 11 stations. Monorail travel takes 22 minutes. The Golden Triangle, Kuala Lumpur’s most popular shopping and entertainment district, can be reached by the KL Monorail.

 

Bus in KL

​​

• Buses and taxis frequently travel to areas inconvenient to reach by subway. Some buses run frequently and leave most LRT stops. A driver can accept cash for a ticket, but a machine may be more convenient. When uncertain about the fare, you can always enquire with the driver.

• Signs, routes, maps, and up-to-date schedules are not always available. There is no way to know how long you must wait before the next bus arrives—it may be 10 minutes or 2 hours. You can’t figure out which bus to travel to specific destinations because no up-to-date information is available.

• Route: Rapid KL has more than 100 routes in the Klang Valley, so it’s an excellent way to get anywhere, not just tourist spots. Several bus stops are also connected to LRT, MRT, and KTM Komuter stations, which makes it even easier to travel by public transit. KL Sentral, KLCC, and Titiwangsa are some of these stops.

• Tickets: If you take the Rapid KL bus, be ready to pay between RM1.00 and RM5.00, depending on how far you go. You need a Touch ‘n Go card, which costs RM10 and has a card price of RM5.20 and a balance of RM4.80. You can buy one on the bus for RM10.00.

• Operational Hours: Rapid KL runs from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 6 a.m. to midnight, Sunday and public holidays. You can use the PULSE app to learn about bus routes and times.

 

Taxi in KL

​​

• Taxis are the fastest and most expensive way to get around Kuala Lumpur. City center taxis are available practically everywhere. The main drawback is that some taxi drivers refuse to use the meter if they see tourists. 

• City center cab costs rarely exceed RM15 on the meter. Out-of-town trips cost RM20–RM25. Taxi drivers use their meters after midnight due to a 50% fee.

​