How to Take a Coach/Bus to Genting Highlands from KL International Airport

The Direct Bus from KLIA to Genting

So you’ve just landed at KLIA. You are tired, your luggage is heavy, and all you want is to escape the humid heat of the lowlands and get straight up to the cool, misty air of Genting Highlands.

Most people assume the only way to do this is to pay RM250+ for a taxi or Grab.

Stop. There is a much better way.

There is a direct coach service that runs from the airport straight to the foot of the mountain. It costs RM35, the seats are huge, and it is arguably the most stress-free transfer you can get.

Here is exactly how to navigate the “Airport to Genting” route like a pro.

1. The Operator: Aerobus

The main player on this route is Aerobus. They run comfortable, air-conditioned coaches (often 44-seaters) specifically for this long-haul trip from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Genting Highlands.

  • Cost: RM35.00 per person (One Way).
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
  • Frequency: Roughly every 2 hours.

Crucial Warning: The Schedule Gap This is not a 24-hour service.

Depart KLIAArrive KLIA-2Arrive AWANA (Cable Car Transfer)
1:45 PM2:00 PM4:00 PM
5:45 PM6:00 PM8:00 PM

If your flight lands at 5:00 PM, do not plan on taking the bus. You will be stranded. In that case, you have to take a Grab or stay a night in KL. Plan well ahead if you want to take Aerobus from KLIA to Genting Highlands because there’s only 2 buses per day available. Also account sufficient time for clearing security and customs.

If you miss this bus, then you will probably have to make your way to KL Sentral and then take another bus to Genting Highlands. I feel like this is too stressful and tiring and not worth it. If this bus schedule suits you, then you will find that it is one of the best and most stress free way to travel to Genting Highlands from the Airport.

2. Where to Catch the Bus (Don’t Get Lost)

KLIA is huge, and finding the bus bays can be tricky if you don’t know where to look.

If you land at KLIA Terminal 1 (MAS, Batik Air, etc.):

  1. Exit Arrival Hall.
  2. Look for signs saying “Bus Station” or “Car Park C”.
  3. You need to go to Level 1 of the Main Terminal Building.
  4. Head to the Coach Bay (Block C).
  5. Look for the Aerobus counter or the platform number on your ticket.

If you land at KLIA Terminal 2 (AirAsia):

  1. Exit Arrival Hall (Level 2).
  2. Walk straight through the “Gateway@KLIA2” mall.
  3. Follow the signs down to Level 1 (Transportation Hub).
  4. This is a massive bus terminal. Look for the ticket counters in the center, or find your gate.

3. The Journey & Arrival (The Awana Cable Car Transfer)

The bus ride is generally smooth highway driving until you hit the mountain roads, where it gets scenic (and curvy).

The Drop-off Point: The bus does not go to the hotels at the top. It stops at Awana Bus Terminal (mid-hill).

The Final Leg (Cable Car): Once you get off the bus at Awana, you have to take the Awana Skyway (Cable Car) to get to the peak (SkyAvenue/Hotels).

  • Cost: ~RM10.
  • Experience: It takes 10 minutes and is a beautiful ride.
  • Luggage: You can bring “cabin size” bags (22in x 14in x 9in) into the gondola. If you have huge check-in luggage, there is a luggage storage service at the bus terminal, or you may be charged a surcharge (approx RM20) to bring the big bag into the gondola.

4. Why Take the Bus vs. Grab?

Let’s look at the math for a solo traveler or a couple.

Option A: The Bus

  • Bus Ticket: RM35
  • Cable Car: RM10
  • Total: RM45 per person.

Option B: Grab / Taxi

  • Fare: ~RM200 – RM250 (depending on demand).
  • Tolls: Included or extra depending on driver.
  • Total: RM200+ per car.

Verdict: If you are alone or with one partner, the bus saves you a fortune. If you are a family of 4 with 8 suitcases, just take the Grab—it’s worth the extra money to avoid dragging luggage around.

Summary Checklist for a Smooth Trip

  1. Check your arrival time: If you land after 5:00 PM, the bus is risky/impossible.
  2. Book Online: Buy your ticket on RedBus, Easybook, or the Aerobus website before you fly. This guarantees your seat.
  3. Bring a Jacket: The bus AC is freezing.
  4. Prepare for the Cable Car: Keep your camera ready; the view going up is the perfect start to the holiday.