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Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah from $35: 14 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
to
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

How to Get from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$35 - Train and FlightBest price
1631 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$83-241
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$38-134
Cheapest
Company
AirAsia
Drive
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$55-240
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Company
AirAsia
Drive
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$60-270
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Company
AirAsia
Drive
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$55-250
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Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  38m
Estimated price
$35-190
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Company
Malaysia Airlines
Drive
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
$85-320
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Company
Malaysia Airlines
Drive
Average Duration
9h 
Estimated price
$85-320
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Company
Malaysia Airlines
Drive
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$110-360
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Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$45-220
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Company
Myanmar Airways International
Drive
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$90-220
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Company
Malindo Airways
Drive
Average Duration
2h  35m
Estimated price
$45-270
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Company
KLIA Express
Train
Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$3-8
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route map
Distance: 1631 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$35-140
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu offers you a vibrant urban energy contrasted with stunning natural beauty, where urban skyscrapers give way to lush rainforests and breathtaking coastlines.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Kota Kinabalu City Center
• Vibrant nightlife and dining options abound.
• Easy access to local markets and attractions.
Likas Bay
• Scenic coastal views and tranquility.
• Ideal for water sports and outdoor activities.
Tanjung Aru
• Famous for stunning sunsets and beach relaxation.
• Offers a blend of luxury resorts and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Kota Kinabalu's Attractions

Planning your visit to Kota Kinabalu’s attractions can elevate your experience.

Kinabalu National Park
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer hikers.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Weekdays offer quieter beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Signal Hill Observatory
Late afternoon provides stunning sunset views with fewer crowds.

Kota Kinabalu Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kota Kinabalu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but the wet season, typically from May to October, can bring heavy showers that influence outdoor activities. The best travel times are during the drier months from November to April when you can fully experience the city's attractions without weather interruptions.

Dining Recommendations in Kota Kinabalu

Head to D’Place Kinabalu for an authentic taste of Kadazan-Dusun cuisine, featuring dishes like Hinava—fresh marinated fish with a zesty twist. The open-air setting and focus on local ingredients create a laid-back atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the bustling dining scene in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur - Kota Kinabalu operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
airasia.com

Plane from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
$55-240

Plane from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$35-190
Website
malaysiaairlines.com

Plane from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$85-320

Plane from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$45-220
Website
fireflyz.com.my

Plane from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$85-320

Plane from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$45-220
Website
malindoair.com

Plane from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$45-270
Train
Contact phone
+603 2267 8000
Website
kliaekspres.com

Train from Bandar Tasik Selatan to Klia T1

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$3-8

Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 Flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is a popular route, but there are no direct flights available from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport. The quickest option includes one stopover and takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes. 💰 The cost of a flight between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu can range from $83 to $241, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. Despite the lack of a direct flight, the journey by plane typically takes around 4 hours and 51 minutes, making it a convenient way to travel between these two Malaysian cities.
Departure Point
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport
Arrival Point
Kota Kinabalu Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 15m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu.

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The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu is 1015 miles. The typical travel time by train and then flying is 4 hours and 21 minutes. If you choose to fly directly, the typical travel time is 6 hours and 1 minute.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is by taking a train to Kuala Lumpur and then flying. This option costs around $35-$140 and takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes. It is the cheapest and quickest way to reach Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur.
The flight duration between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu typically takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes, with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport and Kota Kinabalu Airport. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary from $88 to $247, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Kota Kinabalu. With over 946 hotels available, you will surely find something suitable for your stay. Prices vary, starting at $26 per night. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a budget-friendly hotel, or something in between, there is a wide range of choices to cater to every traveler's needs.

Trips from Kuala Lumpur