MySawasdee train ride & schedule
If you enjoy basking in scenic views unfolding through the window, travelling by train is a potent remedy for the soul that beats a flight any day. For a unique travel experience, hop on MySawasdee, a special offering by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB). Aptly named after the Thai word for “welcome”, this limited-schedule train route will whisk you away to Hat Yai, where bustling commercial centre and shopping paradises await – all for the price of RM95.
Here’s all you need to know about the train schedule, including fares for 2025.
Travel from KL Sentral to Hat Yai, Thailand
Image credit: @mohamadzulhanafi via Instagram
Operated by KTMB, MySawasdee is a special train ride transporting passengers to our neighbouring country, Thailand. Much like its sister train the Jungle Railway, this limited-schedule train ride takes you on a voyage by train – but all the way to Hat Yai, on specific travel dates in the year.
Image credit: @minniemouze via Instagram
Offering an affordable and alternate mode of transportation, particularly for those looking to travel the traditional way, this diesel locomotive train takes the electrified train route that travels from KL Sentral up to Padang Besar Railway Station, on the border of Thailand.
At the Padang Besar station, you will need to disembark with your luggage and belongings, and pass through the Malaysian and Thai immigration checkpoint – so be sure to bring along a passport. This process will usually take up to an hour, depending on the crowd and the season you’re travelling.
Image credit: @greatwhitebeto via Instagram
From Padang Besar Railway Station, passengers will then continue their journey by switching to a Thai locomotive, which ferries them all the way to Hat Yai. The carriages remain the same.
A sleeper carriage with a cafe onboard
Image credit: @lieyana_halim via Instagram
This 440km journey spanning up to 11 hours lets you savour the timeless charm of a traditional train ride – so to keep yourself occupied, don’t forget to pack that book you’ve left on your TBR list for an uninterrupted reading session during your journey.
Image credit: @yun.yuniey via Instagram
While the journey may sound long as opposed to taking a flight, passengers can choose to lounge in the sleeper carriage and stretch out their legs. Each berth comes equipped with a comfortable bed and a privacy curtain that can be pulled closed for a peaceful rest while travelling.
You’ll also have the pleasure of soaking in picturesque views of lush green landscapes – a unique addition exclusive to traditional land travel.
Image adapted from: @minniemouze via Instagram, @eqhalia via Instagram
The lower berth is priced at RM119. But if you prefer more comfort and privacy, opt for the upper berth (RM109) next to a window that lets you soak up scenic nature views. Those who prefer to stay upright and enjoy the classic train ride can opt for the standard carriage seats priced at RM95, which come with generous leg space for a comfortable journey.
Image credit: @searchbeer via Instagram
Once hunger strikes during your journey, take a few steps from your seat and head over to the train’s cafe where you’ll find a plethora of packed foods such as the much-loved instant noodles (RM4-6) and pre-packed fried noodles (RM8). There’s typically a delightful assortment of snacks, such as Apollo (RM2) and Super Ring (RM2), to keep you company during your train ride too.
As for warm liquids, opt for a steaming cup of Teh Tarik (RM3) or Nescafe (RM3).
MySawasdee 2025 travel dates & how to buy your tickets
If you plan to experience this limited-time train ride to Hat Yai, KTM just released their MySawasdee train schedule for 2025. Tickets will go on sale through KTMB’s official website, with travel and return dates on:
- 30th January & 2nd February
- 11th & 14th April
- 30th April & 3rd May
If you’re planning a longer trip to Thailand, keep in mind that you can choose to make a one-way trip. You’ll also get to begin your train ride from the opposite direction by starting at Hat Yai Junction and travelling onwards to KL Sentral station.
Please note that, as stated on their Facebook page, KTM is not offering any concessions or child fares and passengers will have to purchase their meals and beverages separately from their train ticket.
The 1004 train, which travels from KL Sentral to Hat Yai, will arrive and depart at the following stations as follows:
| Station | Arrive | Depart |
| KL Sentral | 10.30pm | |
| Tanjung Malim | 12.02am | 12.14pm |
| Ipoh | 1.56am | 2.26pm |
| Taiping | 3.39am | 3.41pm |
| Padang Besar | 7.06am | 9.10am (Malaysia time) |
| Hat Yai | 9.50am (Malaysia time) 8.50am (Thai time) |
Likewise, the Hat Yai-KL Sentral 1005 train stops at the same stations, with a similar arrival and departure schedule:
| Station | Arrive | Depart |
| Hat Yai | 10.20am (Thai time) 11.20am (Malaysia time) | |
| Padang Besar | 12.00pm | 2.00pm |
| Taiping | 5.37pm | 5.39pm |
| Ipoh | 6.52pm | 7.22pm |
| Tanjung Malim | 9.15pm | 9.17pm |
| KL Sentral | 10.52pm |
To purchase tickets and get more information on departure times, visit KTMB’s official website here or download the KTM mobile app. It’s also best to stay updated on the latest routes on their Facebook page here.
Embark on a journey from KL to Hat Yai with MySawasdee train rides
With the constant rush hour traffic and never-ending jams no matter the time of day, a train ride can be a relaxing alternative that lets you enjoy your journey. Not only is it affordable, but it also saves you the hassle of keeping your hands glued to the steering wheel.
So if you’re planning a quick getaway during this year-end holiday, consider visiting Hat Yai with this limited-time train ride that will not break the bank for an international trip to Thailand.
Also read:
- KTMB launches express services from KL Sentral to Ipoh
- Hitch a ride on Malaysia’s last traditional rail service
Cover image adapted from: @mohamadzulhanafi via Instagram, @lieyana_halim via Instagram
This article was first published on 16th October 2023, and updated by Janet on 7th January 2025.