Ipoh Transport Guide 2026: KTM ETS, Airport Transfer & Tips

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By Daisy

August 5, 2026

Ipoh Transport

Ipoh is one of Malaysian's easiest cities to explore, with a mix of public buses, ride hailing services, taxis, trains and self drive options.

Many of the city's famous attractions are located close to each other making it easy to travel between heritage streets, cave temples, and local food spots.

Whether you're exploring Ipoh Old Town, visiting Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, or planning a day trip to Cameron Highlands, you'll find plenty of convenient transport options to suit your budget and travel style.

Getting Around Ipoh at a Glance

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Ipoh has a simple transport network that is ideal for both short city breaks and longer holidays.

Ride hailing services like Grab are the most popular way to get around while public buses connect major attractions.

KTM trains make it easy to travel to nearby cities and rental cars are ideal if you plan to explore Perak beyond Ipoh.

Transport

Best For

Estimated Cost (S$)

Grab

Everyday travel

S$2 to S$8

Public Bus

Budget travellers

Less than S$1

KTM ETS Train

Travel to nearby cities

S$8 to S$30

Taxi

Airport and direct trips

S$5 to S$15

Rental Car

Road trips around Perak

From S$35 per day

Walking

Ipoh Old Town

Free

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Airport Transport from Sultan Azlan Shah Airport

Airport Transfer Ipoh

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is located about 6 kilometres from Ipoh city centre. The journey usually takes around 10 - 20 minutes, making it one of Malaysia's most conveiently located airports.

There are several ways to reach the city:

Transport

Travel Time

Best For

Grab

10 to 15 minutes

Most travellers

Taxi

10 to 15 minutes

Families and luggage

Airport Shuttle (Limited)

Around 20 minutes

Budget travellers

Rental Car

10 to 15 minutes

Road trips around Perak

Grab is the easiest and most affordable option with pickups available just outside the terminal.

Taxis are also available although fares are usually slightly higher than Grab.

If you plan to visit Cameron Highlands, Taiping or Pangkor Free Terminal, renting a car from the airport offers the greatest flexibility.

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Travelling by KTM ETS Train

ETS Ipoh Transport

The KTM ETS high speed trains connects Ipoh with Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Butterworth and Padang Besar.

Ipoh Railway Station is located near Ipoh Old Town making it convenient for travellers arriving bytrain.

Feature

Details

Routes

Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Butterworth, Padang Besar

Fare

Around S$8 to S$30

Payment

Online booking or station ticket counters

Best For

Intercity travel

KTM ETS Map

ETS Map Ipoh Transport

Advantages of KTM ETS

  • Comfortable and air conditioned
  • Faster than driving between major cities
  • Convenient for day trips from Kuala Lumpur
💡 Pro Tip: Choose hotels in Ipoh near train stations or metro lines to save time and make exploring the city easier.
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Using Public Buses in Ipoh

Bus Ipoh Transport

Public buses are operated mainly by Perak transit and connect the city centre with residential areas, shopping malls, and selected tourist attractions.

While buses are inexpensive, services are less frequent than in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur.

Feature

Details

Operating Hours

Approximately 6:00 am to 10:00 pm

Fare

Around S$0.50 to S$2

Payment

Cash or selected cashless payment

Best For

Budget travel

🚨Tip: Google Maps works well for checking bus routes and departure times around Ipoh.
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Taking Grab Around Ipoh

Grab Ipoh Transport

Grab is the most popular transport option in Ipoh is widely used by both locals and tourists. It is usually affordable, easy to book through the app, and available throughout the city.

Feature

Details

Availability

Throughout Ipoh

Operating Hours

24 hours

Fare

Around S$2 to S$8

Payment

Cash, card, GrabPay

Best For

Everyday travel and sightseeing

Advantages of Using Grab

  • Affordable for short distances
  • No need to worry about parking
  • Easy to book using the app
  • Air conditioned and comfortable

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Fares increase during peak hours and rainy weather
  • Drivers may take slightly longer to arrive during weekends and public holidays
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Renting a Car in Ipoh

Rental Car Ipoh Transport

Renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore destinations outside the city.

Popular road trips include Cameron Highlands, Taiping, Kuala Kangsar, Royal Belum State Park and Pangkor Island.

For sightseeing within Ipoh itself, Grab is usually more convenient than driving.

Things to Know Before Renting

  • Singapore driving licences are valid in Malaysia for short visits.
  • Highways use electronic toll collection.
  • Parking is generally easy outside the city centre.
  • Drive on the left side of the road.

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Transport for Popular Attractions and Day Trips

Sam Poh Tong Temple

Destination

Description

Recommended Transport

Travel Time

Day Trips

Ipoh Old Town

The heart of Ipoh, known for its colonial architecture, famous white coffee, murals, and local eateries.

Walk or Grab

5 to 10 minutes

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Concubine Lane

A lively heritage street filled with cafés, souvenir shops, street food, and colourful photo spots.

Walk

5 to 10 minutes

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Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

One of Ipoh's most beautiful limestone cave temples, featuring peaceful gardens and impressive rock formations.

Grab

15 to 20 minutes

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Sam Poh Tong Temple

Malaysia's oldest cave temple, famous for its Buddhist statues, limestone cave, and tranquil surroundings.

Grab

Around 15 minutes

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Lost World of Tambun

A popular theme park with water rides, hot springs, petting zoo, and night attractions, perfect for families.

Grab

Around 20 minutes

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Perak Cave Temple

A stunning cave temple featuring colourful murals, Buddha statues, and panoramic views from the hilltop.

Grab

Around 15 minutes

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Cameron Highlands

A cool hill station known for tea plantations, strawberry farms, flower gardens, and scenic mountain views.

Rental Car or Bus

Around 2 hours

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Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's capital city, famous for the Petronas Twin Towers, shopping malls, and vibrant food scene.

KTM ETS

About 2 hours 30 minutes

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Penang

A UNESCO World Heritage destination renowned for George Town's street art, heritage buildings, and world famous local food.

KTM ETS

Around 2 hours

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Useful Ipoh Transport Tips

Mural Art's Lane
  • Use Grab for most journeys around the city.
  • Carry some Malaysian Ringgit for buses and small shops.
  • Walk around Ipoh Old Town to explore its street art and famous cafés.
  • Book KTM ETS tickets early during weekends, school holidays, and public holidays.
  • Rent a car if you plan to visit Cameron Highlands or other attractions outside Ipoh.
  • Google Maps provides accurate directions for buses, walking, and driving.
💡 Pro Tip: Book flights to Ipoh as soon as you confirm your itinerary as prices rise quickly during the peak season.
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Final Thoughts

Concubine Ln

Getting around Ipoh is simple, affordable, and convenient for first time visitors.

Whether you choose Grab, public buses, KTM ETS trains, taxis or rental car, you'll have plenty of options to explore Ipoh's famous food, heritage attractions, cave temples, and nearby destinations with ease.

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Stay Near Top Ipoh's Attractions

5 star

Meru Suites at Meru Valley Resort

8.6/10Very Good39 Reviews
Ipoh|7.54km from downtown
A big thanks to the management for free upgrade to studio suites 😍 We felt at home, the room with all the necessities, fresh airs, complimentary drinks and kacang putih, member price for in room service of the Dome. I especially love the bath, water pressure is strong 👍🏻 It would be even better if lotion is provided 😊
FromJPY 9,681

1969 D'Kelly Hotel

8.7/10Very Good234 Reviews
Ipoh|3.58km from downtown
Spent one night at this hotel for a business trip, and I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was for the price. The parking area is spacious and free, with valet parking available from RM30 per night. The hotel has a modern design and is equipped with a Face ID-like entry system, which adds a nice touch of technology. All the room switches are touchscreen as well. The bed and pillows were very comfortable, making it easy to get a good night’s sleep. I also really loved the bathroom design, especially the electronically operated toilet seat very much like the ones you’d find in Japan. They also provide complimentary snacks and carbonated drinks, which was a nice bonus. Overall, definitely one of the best hotels I’ve stayed at for its price. Great comfort, modern facilities, and plenty of thoughtful touches. Would definitely consider staying here again.
FromJPY 9,142

Stallionz Premium Suites Ipoh by BYON

8.9/10Very Good229 Reviews
Ipoh|3.13km from downtown
GOOD STAY. NICE LOCATION. HOPEFULLY ALLOW FREE LATE CHECK OUT AROUND 3 PM ON WEEKDAYS WITHOUT ANY CHARGES. RECEPTIONIST AGREED ONLY 1 HOUR LATE CHECK OUT. ADMIN/RECEPTIONIST SHOULD COORDINATE WITH HOUSEKEEPERS AS NOT TO DISTURB GUEST BETWEEN 12 PM - 1 PM ( LATE CHECKOUT PERMITTED TIME); DURING OUR STAY WHEREBY WE WERE BUSY PACKING UP OUR LUGGAGES AND IN THE BATHROOM. QUITE ANNOYING. IMPROVE CREWS' HOSPITALITY SKILLS.... ANYWAY WOULD LIKE TO STAY AT STALLIONZ......because reasonable pricing, free parking and good location
FromJPY 4,430

Piccadilly Ipoh Greentown by BYON

8.5/10Very Good94 Reviews
Ipoh|2.1km from downtown
“I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff were friendly, professional, and always ready to help. The location was convenient, with easy access to nearby attractions and restaurants. Overall, it was a pleasant experience, and I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.”
FromJPY 5,180

M Roof Hotel & Residences

8.8/10Very Good776 Reviews
Ipoh|0.96km from downtown
Had a wonderful stay at M Roof Hotel Ipoh! From check-in to check-out, everything was smooth and welcoming. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, making it easy to relax after a long day. The staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with a smile. The hotel’s location is convenient, with plenty of great food nearby and easy access to the city’s attractions. Overall, it was a pleasant experience, and I’d definitely recommend M Roof Hotel to anyone visiting Ipoh. Looking forward to staying here again!
FromJPY 8,227

Impiana Hotel Ipoh

8.4/10Very Good1001 Reviews
Ipoh|3.19km from downtown
Stayed here again after my previous visit in 2024. There have been some improvements since then, especially the swimming pool, which has been upgraded and looks nice. However, the cleanliness of the pool water still needs improvement. From the surface it looks clean and blue, but underneath, the water and pool area look quite dirty. The room was good overall, but the pillow was quite hard for my liking. The air-conditioning is centralized, and the room was still quite warm even when I set it to high. The café is currently closed for renovation and has been moved/replaced with a temporary café on the 1st floor. Hopefully, the renovation will bring further improvements, and I’m looking forward to seeing the completed changes on my next visit. Overall, it was a decent stay, but there are still a few areas that could be improved, especially the pool cleanliness and air-conditioning.
FromJPY 5,813

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Family friendly

Travelodge Ipoh

8.7/10Very Good1639 Reviews
Ipoh|2.38km from downtown
Spacious room, desk for work space is good and comfortable. Suitable for business traveler like me. But i dont like the room at level 3, when they are doing construction work at 4.30am, very noisy and I can’t sleep properly. Mattress and bed, pillows very comfortable. But the most important, they cant maintain cleanliness level up to the standard. When at morning i went out for breakfast i found the rubbish front of my door. My room was at the end of the row. Maybe other guests just use my front door as their dumpster. But what shocked me most, when i went out from my room. There was house keeper there, but when i talked to him about cleaning the rubbish he just said to me wait for office instructions. Really unbelievable! No urgency to clear the rubbish and their housekeeper standard of cleanliness really bad!
FromJPY 7,829

Decozy 3.0 Semi-D (18pax++)

8/10Very Good5 Reviews
Ipoh|4.06km from downtown
Facilities are a bit old but big. Very sleepy. Still feel. It is also very convenient to get out of town
FromJPY 15,705

Manhattan Waterpark Condo Ipoh (Free 2 Carpark & Netflix Ready)

8.8/10Very Good146 Reviews
Ipoh|7.78km from downtown
From collecting keys till checkout, everything went smoothly. The room is clean and nice. And the price is worth it with the pool view. Very efficient and responsive. Definitely will choose this place again. The security guard also do well their job to look after the kids at the splash pool to make sure kid play safely. 👍 👍
FromJPY 6,634

The Cove Hillside Ipoh by Iconique

8/10Very Good12 Reviews
Ipoh|2.18km from downtown
A great stay for my family. The unit is clean and spacious enough for us. 1 parking slot is provided and it is near the lobby. Check in was easy too. Owner was quick to response to my questions and requests. The kettle was malfunctioned and they give us another the next day despite it’s a weekend. My boy had so much fun at the playground and swimming pool. Will come again if there’s a chance.
FromJPY 8,251

Decozy7.0 Ipoh Town Condo(12pax)

8.7/10Very Good30 Reviews
Ipoh|2.32km from downtown
Very satisfied with this stay! The environment of the homestay is clean and tidy, the rooms are warm and comfortable, the facilities are complete, and the beds are soft and sleepy. The location is convenient, there are restaurants and convenience stores nearby, and travel is easy. The landlord is warm and friendly, responded quickly, and also provided detailed check-in instructions. The overall feeling is excellent value for money, I will definitely choose here next time, and I will recommend it to my friends and relatives!
FromJPY 9,235

Anderson Ipoh by Iconique

8.3/10Very Good11 Reviews
Ipoh|2.51km from downtown
We had an excellent stay at this hotel The property is very spacious and big. Truly feels like home. Everything was clean, comfortable, and cozy, just as advertised. The check-in and check-out process was very smooth, and the owner was responsive and provided clear, correct guidance when we arrived. We enjoyed our time here and will definitely be coming back in the future!
FromJPY 2,836

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Swimming pool

Regalodge Hotel & Spa Ipoh

8.2/10Very Good705 Reviews
Ipoh|3.12km from downtown
I had a wonderful stay at Regalodge Hotel Ipoh. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, providing a relaxing environment after a day of sightseeing. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always ready to assist with any requests. The hotel's location is convenient, with many popular attractions and food spots nearby. Breakfast was enjoyable with a good variety of choices. Overall, it offers excellent value for money, and I would gladly stay here again when visiting Ipoh.
FromJPY 2,508

Hotel Casuarina @ Meru

8.9/10Very Good305 Reviews
Bandar Meru Raya Ipoh|7.4km from downtown
I was very satisfied with my stay at Casuarina Meru Hotel. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff were friendly and professional. The room was very clean, comfortable, and spacious, with complete amenities. The bed was also very comfortable, providing quality rest. The hotel's location is strategically excellent, close to MAPS, Meru, and several other facilities, making it a suitable choice for either business or leisure. The breakfast offered a diverse selection of food, and the taste was satisfying. Overall, the experience of staying here was excellent. I will definitely choose Casuarina Meru Hotel again in the future and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable hotel with excellent service. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
FromJPY 5,954

MH Hotel Ipoh

7.4/1063 Reviews
Ipoh|1.17km from downtown
As an EV owner, it's great to be able to charge my car right under the hotel. They have a DC charger too!
FromJPY 10,079

Ipoh Bali Hotel

9.4/10Amazing108 Reviews
Ipoh|2.32km from downtown
The total atmosphere was really calming and gorgeous! The interiors, every single detail of it was just wow. Not only that, the staff and service were so kind and welcoming... Moreover, the food was delicious and wholesome. Overall, the stay will make you feel like you are actually in Bali and it will be the most soothing+unforgettable experience. Sure will come again.
FromJPY 11,251

Ipoh Concept Services

8.1/10Very Good42 Reviews
Ipoh|4.08km from downtown
Booked family Premier room. Very huge king sized bed which can fit 2 teens and an adult with enough space to spare plus a single bed. So our family of 4 fitted comfortably in the room. Shower power is great and comes with a separate bathtub, still new. Iron hairdryer minifridge provided. Swimming pool available till 6pm, inhouse cinema till 9pm. Free Parking available. Within walking distance from most restaurants. Shares same management with Ritz garden hotel. Will book again.
FromJPY 5,368

Manhattan Premium Suites by Iwh Suites

8.7/10Very Good17 Reviews
Ipoh|7.82km from downtown
Manhattan Premium Suites by IWH Suites provides flawless service and all the necessary facilities for visitors. Stay connected with your associates, as complimentary Wi-Fi is available during your entire visit.When arriving by car, you'll be grateful for the on-site complimentary parking at apartment.The apartment offers reception amenities including express check-in or check-out and luggage storage to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. Whether you're here for an extended stay or simply require fresh garments, the apartment ensures your cherished travel attire remains spotless and accessible with the convenience of laundry service located on the premises. To ensure the well-being and convenience of all visitors, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire apartment. In order to ensure the utmost level of relaxation, the guestrooms feature an inviting design and are equipped with all basic necessities, creating a delightful stay experience. To ensure a pleasant stay, a selection of rooms at apartment come furnished with linen service, blackout curtains and air conditioning, all designed with your ease in mind.At Manhattan Premium Suites by IWH Suites, various room configurations are available, featuring separate living room and balcony or terrace in some rooms. In select rooms, visitors can enjoy a touch of amusement with the availability of television and cable TV for their entertainment needs.Within specific rooms, a refrigerator and bottled water is conveniently available for your use.Understanding the significance of bathroom facilities in enhancing visitor contentment, apartment offers a hair dryer, toiletries and towels within a few chosen chambers. Various excellent meal offerings at apartment ensure that enticing and easily accessible options are constantly available.Visitors with specific dietary preferences can savor a variety of culinary styles at Manhattan Premium Suites by IWH Suites, featuring halal choices to accommodate their needs. Visitors wishing to create their personal culinary delights will appreciate the on-site BBQ facilities provided at this establishment.Throughout the day, engage in the entertaining activities available at Manhattan Premium Suites by IWH Suites.Unwind and conclude each day delightfully by stopping by salon and spa, ensuring a soothing experience.Unwind by the pool at apartment and cherish a leisurely moment. Guests who enjoy maintaining their fitness regimen while on holiday can visit the fitness center provided by apartment.
FromJPY 10,032

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Breakfast

Hotel Excelsior Ipoh

8.4/10Very Good739 Reviews
Ipoh|3.38km from downtown
Overall, the hotel breakfast offered a good variety of food, including freshly cooked noodles. The room was clean and tidy. They even offered to collect takeout orders for us, and I was pleasantly surprised to find Hong Kong TV channels available.
FromJPY 6,235

MU Hotel

8.8/10Very Good475 Reviews
Ipoh|3.77km from downtown
The hotel accommodated early checkin for us at 1.00 pm. We are allocated a room at the 5th floor. Room size was right for 2 pax. The toilet n bath room are separate with a pull door. There are Indian food, dim sum restaurant n coffee shop around the hotel. Free shutter service around the old n new towns. The driver, Mr Addy did a fantastic service during our trip by driving us around and provided wonderful food recommendations.
FromJPY 8,063

Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites

8.7/10Very Good556 Reviews
Ipoh|4km from downtown
Had a pleasant stay at Hotel Kinta during my recent trip. The hotel is clean, comfortable, and located in a very convenient area—easy access to shops and food spots nearby. Check-in was smooth and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout the stay. The highlight of the trip was definitely the buka puasa experience. The atmosphere felt like the classic P. Ramlee & Saloma era—very lively and nostalgic. There was a live band and DJ that made the night even more happening, and the hotel staff really entertained the guests which made the whole experience feel warm and memorable. Special shoutout to Prem, Adji, Feri & Zack for the great hospitality and fun vibes throughout the night. They truly made the buka puasa experience more meriah and enjoyable. 🌙✨ Overall, it was a comfortable and memorable stay. Definitely recommended for anyone visiting and looking for a place with good vibes during Ramadan.
FromJPY 8,509

M Boutique Hotel

8.3/10Very Good546 Reviews
Ipoh|4.75km from downtown
The hotel decor very nice as the hotel name as Boutique, the room i booked was double bedded not big as expected but just nice for solo traveller, the toilet very nice colour which black and white, the toilet flashing got problems and the counter gave a fast and good solution very fast . The only I wanted to complaint is the bed and the pillows not nice for good sleep, maybe the hotel need to made a changed especially the pillows .
FromJPY 4,313

Cititel Express Ipoh

8.5/10Very Good1532 Reviews
Ipoh|4.15km from downtown
The hotel isn't too far or too close to the train station; you can see it. But if it's a hot day and you're carrying luggage, just grab a taxi – it's only a few bucks. The two young gentlemen in the ground floor lobby provided excellent service. They always proactively opened the door for us and were very polite. The guy who checked me in was also great; he let me get my room half an hour early. The lobby on the 18th floor has a very comfortable atmosphere. The room was also very good. There's a 7-Eleven downstairs. During the day, it's very close to 'San Na Street' (likely a local reference, perhaps a specific shopping area or street name); just be careful crossing the road. All the shops close very early and are often shut. There's absolutely nothing around at night. I didn't even know where to go to get a taxi! Better just go to bed early.
FromJPY 5,954

Merton Hotel Ipoh

8.4/10Very Good304 Reviews
Ipoh|5.63km from downtown
Pros: · Lobby is very beautiful and impressive · Hallway to the room is a bit dark, but the room itself is cozy and good for relaxing · Room gets cleaned every day, even though my room didn't have a ”clean room / DND” sign (a nice surprise) · Lift available, no need to carry luggage up stairs · Toothbrush provided Cons: · Lobby can get a bit smelly during raining Overall: A decent stay with good housekeeping effort and a cozy room. Just be aware of the dark hallway and occasional lobby smell on rainy days. Still worth considering for the price and comfort.
FromJPY 3,493

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Daisy

Daisy

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I’m a travel lover who can never say no to good food, stunning beaches, and the beauty of nature. Sharing my adventures and travel tips, I hope to inspire you to explore, taste, and unwind wherever you go.

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