Rail Travel in Malaysia: A Scenic Ride from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru

There’s something timeless and poetic about boarding a train. The rhythmic clatter of steel wheels, the countryside gliding past, and the gradual unfolding of Malaysia’s landscapes from city to coast. The rail journey from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Johor Bahru (JB) reveals the changing face of Malaysia, from the urban energy of the capital to the quiet heartlands of Negeri Sembilan, Melaka’s borders, and Johor’s countryside. It’s a route filled with stories — of stations that have stood since colonial times, of towns that grew around the railway, and of locals who still wave as the train passes by.

The Departure

(Source: https://www.klia2.info)

Your journey begins at KL Sentral. Once you settle into your seat aboard KTM’s Electric Train Service (ETS) or the intercity line, the train glides smoothly out of Kuala Lumpur, passing through the sprawling suburbs of Bangsar, Mid Valley, and Serdang before opening up to the countryside.

(Source: https://www.ktmb.com.my)

Depending on the service, the trip from KL to JB Sentral takes six to seven hours. The track runs parallel to the old Federal Route 1, Malaysia’s original north-south highway, but from the window, the view tells a different story: rolling hills, wooden kampung houses, and the steady rhythm of rural life.

Stops Along the Way

1. Seremban

About an hour from KL, Seremban is your first major stop. Known for its Minangkabau heritage, this town reflects the unique matrilineal culture of Negeri Sembilan, where traditional houses feature the iconic horn-shaped roofs.

Step off the train for a few hours and explore the Seremban Market, a bustling hub of flavours where locals shop for spicy rendang and fragrant lemang. Nearby attractions include Lake Gardens, Centipede Temple, and a growing café scene that gives the city a refreshing modern twist.

(Source: https://www.malaysia.travel/explore/discovering-seremban-through-its-rich-heritage-local-attractions)

2. Gemas

A small yet historically significant town in Negeri Sembilan. Known as the railway crossroads of Malaysia, this is where the west coast line (running from Padang Besar to JB) meets the east coast’s legendary Jungle Railway that stretches toward Kelantan.

The town’s quiet pace makes it a perfect stopover for a night. Enjoy a simple local meal of ikan patintempoyak or mee bandung Gemas and listen to the sound of trains echoing through the evening.

(Source: https://friedchillies.com/what-to-cook/malay-what-to-cook/ikan-patin-masak-tempoyak/)

3. Kluang

The name “Kluang” originates from the Malay word for fruit bat, which was once common in the area. Today, it’s better known for Kluang Rail Coffee, a legendary kopitiam located right at the train station.

(Source: https://www.jbcityguide.com/place/kluang-rail-coffee)

Since the 1930s, travellers have stopped here for a comforting breakfast of charcoal-grilled toast with kaya and butter, half-boiled eggs, and a strong cup of traditional kopi. The shop’s atmosphere — worn wooden benches, old posters, and the aroma of roasting beans — perfectly captures Malaysia’s railway nostalgia.

4. Batu Pahat

If your train passes through Batu Pahat, you’ll discover a town rich in craftsmanship and culinary heritage. Known for its handmade pottery, Hainanese-inspired dishes, and mee bandung, Batu Pahat is a rewarding detour for those who enjoy exploring local culture and flavours.

(Source: https://magazine.foodpanda.my/blog/dish-of-the-day-mee-bandung/)

The Arrival

Arriving at JB Sentral, the modern gateway to Malaysia’s southernmost city, you’re steps away from cultural quarters, trendy cafés, and views of Singapore across the strait. Explore the Old Town’s heritage lanes, visit the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, or indulge in Johor’s unique laksa and kacangpool before wrapping up your journey.

(Source: https://www.rasa.my/kacang-pool-makan-dengan-roti-memang-enak/)

(Source: https://mytrip.my/jalan-dhoby-johor-bahru-a-heritage-street-turned-hipster-haven/)

For travellers heading onward, JB Sentral connects seamlessly to Singapore via the Shuttle Tebrau, a short 5-minute train ride — making this route ideal for both local explorers and cross-border commuters.

What You Can’t Do

If you buy a direct ETS or Intercity ticket from KL Sentral to JB Sentral:

So, if you alight at Kluang for example, you can’t just continue your journey the next day on the same ticket. You’ll need to buy a new ticket from Kluang to JB Sentral.

What You Can Do

Option 1: Segmented booking (Recommended for slow travel)

KL Sentral → Seremban

Seremban → Gemas

Gemas → Kluang

Kluang → JB Sentral

Option 2: Day stops without overnight stay (Perhaps you just want to stop for lunch)

With the KL–JB rail service now fully operational, travellers can journey directly from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru without the need to change trains at Gemas. So next time you’re heading south, skip the highway. Let the rails guide you instead from the pulse of KL to the coastal calm of Johor Bahru, one scenic frame at a time.

(Source: https://www.ktmb.com.my)

Stay updated with the next article on train rides to discover more hidden gems and tips for travellers who love the locomotive experience! Follow us on social media or download the MyRehat mobile app today.