KTM train from JB to Kulai
Quick PSA: JB ≠ Johor. JB (Johor Bahru) is the capital city of the whole Johor state, which is way bigger than that. And while everyone flocks to JB for a quick weekend getaway, we think it’s time to give Kulai a try. It’s an underrated town in Johor with fewer crowds and more breathing room. Plus, it’s less than an hour away from JB!
You can drive to Kulai from the JB checkpoint, but those not driving or just want to save some cash can hop on the KTM train instead. Here’s a guide on how to take the KTM train from JB to Kulai.
Where is Kulai located?
Screenshot from: Google Maps
Kulai is nestled in the southern state of Johor, not too far from the hustle and bustle of JB. No surprises here – it’s so near JB that you’ll get there in under an hour, either by car or by train.
Because of its strategic location, Kulai is often used as a pit stop for those heading to places like Kluang or even further north.
Taking the train from JB to Kulai
How to purchase KTM train tickets from JB to Kulai?
Screenshot from: KITS
Train tickets from JB to Kulai can be purchased online via the KITS ticketing website – select “ETS/Intercity” then choose JB Sentral as your starting point and Kulai as your destination.
It’s not like the KTM Shuttle Tebrau from Woodlands to JB Sentral, where it’s always a ticketing war; purchasing tickets for the ETS/Intercity trains from JB to Kulai is a chill affair. We managed to book our tickets just 1 day before a weekday trip, and there were still plenty of seats left.
But if you’re travelling during peak periods like weekends or public holidays, it’s always a good idea to book in advance, just to be safe.
Screenshot from: KITS
There are multiple trains daily running between JB Sentral and Kulai, so you have a few options to plan around. The earliest train from JB Sentral leaves at 7.35am, while the last one heads out at 9.05pm.
For those coming from Kulai, trains start even earlier – the 1st one departs at 6.13am, and the last train leaves at 11.58pm.
Pro tip: the earliest KTM Shuttle Tebrau from Woodlands rolls out at 8.30am, which is a bit too late if you’re aiming to catch the 1st train to Kulai. Early birds will need to look at alternative ways to cross the border, like taking a bus into JB first. Or consider booking the new Grab cross-border taxi straight to Kulai instead.
Screenshot from: KITS
A one-way ticket starts from RM7 (~S$2.26) per person, depending on the train type, departure timing, duration of the journey, and the seats you choose.
The Express train service takes the longest: 39 minutes to Kulai and 43 minutes back to JB Sentral. Go for the Platinum or Gold train services if you prefer a speedier journey – rides range from 18 to 22 minutes to Kulai and 16 to 22 minutes to JB.
What type of seats are available?
Screenshot from: KITS
The website also lets you see which seats have already been snapped up, and even the gender of the passengers seated there – if that’s something you’d like to factor into your booking.
You’ll get to choose from a range of seat types too, from standard backwards-facing seats to standard cluster forward seats. There are also different cabins to select from.
Select your seat, key in your details including your passport number, and make payment – the website accepts international debit and credit cards.
Can I purchase KTM train tickets offline?
When you’re feeling spontaneous and decide to ditch Johor Bahru City Square mall for an impromptu adventure, you can still score a last-minute train ticket offline.
Head to the JB Sentral KTM counters to purchase a ticket from the staff, or use the self-service ticket counter. The machine accepts Touch ‘n Go cards, as well as Visa and Mastercards.
What’s the boarding process like for the KTM train from JB to Kulai?
Once you’re at JB Sentral, you’ll notice there are 2 gates:
- Gate A (on the left) is for trains heading to Singapore
- Gate B (on the right) is for ETS/Intercity trains
Wait near Gate B, which usually opens about 15 minutes before departure. Have your e-ticket (online purchases) or physical ticket (offline purchases) ready – you won’t need your passport. Just scan the QR code on your ticket at the gate, and you’re good to go.
After that, head down the escalator to the platform – the train should already be there. Look out for signs showing cabin A, B or C, and so forth, depending on what you booked, and hop on to find your seat.
What’s the KTM train ride from JB to Kulai like?
We took the Express train service for our trip, and here’s our experience.
The train’s air-conditioning was on full blast, so we recommend bringing a jacket if you get cold easily. Each seat comes with a reclining backrest and a foldable tray table. You’re allowed to bring food and drinks onboard – more reasons to grab that Rotiboy from JB Sentral before boarding.
About 20 minutes into the ride, a train attendant strolled down the aisle to check our tickets. Just flash your e-ticket or printed copy, and they’ll verify you’re in the right seat.
As for the ride itself, don’t expect it to feel like you’re on the Shinkansen. The KTM train moves at a much slower pace compared to the bullet train, but it’s comfortable and steady, which might just lull you to sleep.
Take note that there’s another stop before Kulai – make sure to keep an ear out for announcements or peek out the window occasionally.
What happens when I arrive at Kulai station?
It’s time to grab your stuff and alight quickly – no dilly-dallying, please. The train only stops for a few minutes before moving off.
The station itself is surprisingly new and clean, but if you’re hoping to snap a quick photo for your IG feed, do it fast. Staff members were on standby to usher everyone out promptly when we were there, as they had to clear the platform and lock up, since the next train wouldn’t be arriving for a few hours. But things might have changed now, with shorter intervals between train departure and arrival.
From Kulai station, it’s easy to book a Grab to your next stop. Wait at the pick-up or drop-off point – there are plenty of seats for you to rest your tired feet before a long day ahead.
What is there to do in Kulai?
“JB is already so sian, what’s there even to do in Kulai?” The short answer: enough for a quick 2D1N trip. Alternatively, choose to stay in an Airbnb in JB, then use a ride-hailing app to book a ride up to Kulai for a day trip.
Durian Guesthouse’s patio is a great spot to sit back and chill while enjoying the peace and quiet.
If you plan on staying a night in Kulai, consider Durian Guesthouse, a kampung-style Airbnb that’s run by a local couple, and you’ll even wake up to a free home-cooked breakfast.
Target Supermarket at IOI Mall Kulai sells affordable groceries and essentials.
Check out IOI Mall Kulai – there’s a kid-friendly cinema with tickets as low as RM18 (~S$5.81) and an arcade with claw machine games from just RM1 (~S$0.32) per try.
Hotpot feast at Guoma Seafood Express located in THE COMMUNE.
Then there’s THE COMMUNE, a lifestyle mall in Kulai with a Chagee drive-thru as well as pickleball courts for you to work off those calories.
One of the photo spots at the Purple Bamboo Valley, located in Putuo Village.
Or, visit Putuo Village, a peaceful sanctuary with a pretty bamboo forest and a chill cafe.
Take the KTM train from JB to Kulai for your next Johor trip
We don’t want to hear “I thought crossing the border just means going to JB” again – sorry, unless you’ve been living under a rock, there’s Kulai waiting for you to explore. And this lesser-known town in Johor is just a short train ride away.
More Malaysia transport guides you might be interested in:
Photography by Cassia Leong.
Originally published on 2nd June 2025. Last updated on 8th May 2026.