Bus Travel Guide from Penang to Bangkok

Penang is one of Malaysia’s top tourist destinations for its mesmerizing architecture, flower gardens, hills, and scenic views. Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The distance between Penang and Bangkok is roughly 1145 km. Many bus operators cover the Penang to Bangkok route on a daily basis.

How to reach Bangkok from Penang?

Penang to Bangkok is a long journey, and the road travel distance is 1145 km. You can travel to Bangkok from Penang in the following ways -

By Plane - You can take a flight from Penang to Bangkok. It is the fastest way to travel.
By Bus - You can take a bus from Penang to Bangkok. It is the cheapest option and the travel time is around 19 hours. You can easily get a Penang to Bangkok bus ticket online on the redBus website/mobile application.
By Taxi - You can even travel from Penang to Bangkok by a cab, but it may be costly.

How to travel safely from Penang to Bangkok?

There are currently travel restrictions between Malaysia and Thailand due to the coronavirus pandemic, so travelling in a Penang to Bangkok bus comes with certain conditions. The increase in the number of COVID-19 cases and the emergence of a new virus strain led to domestic and international travel restrictions in both countries.

In Malaysia, you must have a valid reason to travel interstate and get prior permission, as per the MCO which is in effect till 18th February.
Penang to Bangkok journey requires permissions as one has to cross the border.
On the other hand, Thailand has restricted entry of foreign nationals into the country, and only those with a permanent or long term resident visa can enter.
All Thailand passport holders and foreign nationals must present a COVID -19 negative certificate to get the permit.
The foreign nationals must get the COE (Certificate Of Entry) issued by the Thai Embassy to be permitted at the border.
There is health screening at the entry port.
The passengers must also undergo strict 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
The passengers must wear face masks all the while and follow social distancing.

Please check the official government websites for the latest updates.

Penang to Bangkok Bus Details

Penang is an exotic tourist destination in Malaysia. It is full of scenic beauty earning it the title of virgin paradise and Pearl of the orient due to its many beautiful beaches. Penang is also listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and has numerous cultural sights and architectural marvels. Tourists visit Penang not just for its sights but for its mouth-watering cuisine too. Due to its cuisine, it is known as the food capital of Malaysia. Bangkok needs no introduction. The mesmerizing cosmopolitan is full of historical temples, palaces, skyscrapers, and other monuments. Bangkok, with its various kinds of markets, vibrant nightlife, and food, is an epitome of contrasts. One can find modernity holding hands with rustic Thailand in its narrow alleys and sprawling business districts.

Traveling to Bangkok from Penang via bus is the cheapest option due to the nominal bus fare. The Penang to Bangkok route is serviced by many bus operators such as New Asian Travels, Beh Travels & Tours Sdn, The Transport Company, Siam lane Tour, and Piya.

The Penang to Bangkok bus covers a distance of roughly 1145 km in approximately 19 hours. The time taken for the journey may vary due to climate conditions or traffic. The buses stop for many refreshment breaks on the route due to the long journey. The bus fare is between MYR 140 to MYR 150, depending on the type of bus and amenities provided. The bus categories available on the route are:

Minibus
Executive
Economy

The buses for Bangkok depart from Komtar Bus Terminal in Penang, and the drop off location in Bangkok is Mochit Bus Terminal. The bus from Penang to Bangkok travels through the Hatyai bus terminal. There are several buses plying the route daily. To see the complete detail of bus types, fares, and timings, go to the redBus portal.

Things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok is full of temples, palaces, monuments, etc. There is so much to see and do. Some of the prominent attractions are:

Grand Palace- is a large complex of buildings. Grand Palace has been the official residence for the Siam’s kings since 1782.
Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha- is the most sacred Buddhist temple of Thailand. The complex houses the famous statue of Emerald Buddha.
Wat Arun- is a popular Buddhist temple deriving its name from Hindu god Aruna.
Lumpini Park- is a famous park in Bangkok consisting of an artificial lake, playgrounds, walking trails, etc.
Wat Saket or Golden Mount- is a temple in Bangkok dating back to the Ayutthaya era.

Tips to Book a Penang to Bangkok Bus

You can book online tickets using redBus from Penang to Bangkok. Follow these easy steps for your online ticket booking:

Go to the redBus website or mobile application. Sign-in is not a must for ticket booking.
Select your boarding and destination points on the interface.
Enter your travel dates. Then press ‘Search’ to see all available buses.
Select the bus as per your preferred timing.
Click ‘View Seat’ to see the available seats.
Choose your preferred seat.
Click ‘Proceed to Pay’ to pay for your bus tickets.
Fill in your contact details on the interface.
Complete your payment to book your tickets.
You will receive a booking confirmation on email and receive your e-tickets on your mobile.

Disclaimer: Bus timings, routes, and fares are subject to change. Please check locally for any last-minute changes.

Bus From Penang to Bangkok