Love & LayoversSingapore and Malaysia are joined by two land crossings, so adding Malaysia to a Singapore trip is easy. You can be in Johor Bahru in minutes or in Kuala Lumpur by evening, by train, bus or a one-hour flight.
Here's every option compared, plus the visa and immigration tips Indian travellers need.
Quick comparison
| Option | Route | Time | Approx. cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KTM Shuttle Tebrau train | Woodlands → JB Sentral | ~5 min ride | about S$5 | Quickest way to Johor Bahru |
| Public cross-border bus | Kranji, Queen Street, Newton → JB | 1–2 hours with immigration | about S$2–5 | Cheapest to JB |
| Coach to Kuala Lumpur | Various Singapore pickup points → KL | 5–7 hours | about S$25–60 | Budget trips to KL |
| Flight to Kuala Lumpur | Changi → KLIA | ~1 hour flying | varies, often S$60–150 | Saving time |
Option 1: KTM Shuttle Tebrau train to Johor Bahru
The Shuttle Tebrau runs between Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore and JB Sentral in Johor Bahru. The ride takes about five minutes, and you clear Singapore and Malaysian immigration at the stations. Tickets are sold on the KTMB website and app and often sell out on weekends and holidays, so book as soon as your dates are fixed.
Option 2: Cross-border buses to Johor Bahru
Public buses run all day across the Causeway. Routes such as SBS 170 and Causeway Link CW services start from places like Kranji MRT, Queen Street and Newton. You get off at Singapore immigration with your bags, clear immigration, then re-board any bus of the same service; you do the same on the Malaysian side.
- Pay with a contactless card or exact cash, depending on the operator
- Keep your ticket or card; you'll need to re-board after immigration
- Expect long queues on Friday evenings, weekends and public holidays
Option 3: Direct coach to Kuala Lumpur
Comfortable coaches run from several Singapore pickup points straight to KL, with immigration stops on the way. Look for "executive" or "VIP" coaches with three seats per row for a more comfortable ride. Book on the operator's site or ticket platforms such as Easybook or BusOnlineTicket, and check the exact pickup point on your ticket.
Option 4: Fly to Kuala Lumpur
Flights from Changi to KLIA take about an hour, with frequent departures on Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Scoot and others. Once you add airport time, it's still the fastest way to KL, and it's ideal if you're short on days. Firefly also flies from Seletar to Subang, which is closer to central KL.
From Johor Bahru onwards
From JB Sentral you can continue north by intercity train or by bus from Larkin Bus Terminal to Malacca or Kuala Lumpur. Check KTMB for the latest train services on the southern line, which has been upgraded in recent years. The new RTS Link train between Woodlands North and Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru is expected to open around the end of 2026 and should make crossing much faster.
Visa and immigration for Indian travellers
- Malaysia: Indian passport holders can currently visit visa-free for up to 30 days (extended to 31 December 2026). You must fill in the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before arrival, including when crossing by land.
- Coming back to Singapore: you need a valid Singapore visa to re-enter. If your visa was single-entry, it's used up when you leave, so check your visa says multiple entry or apply for a new one. See our Singapore visa guide.
- SG Arrival Card: submit it again before re-entering Singapore.
- Carry your passport, both arrival card confirmations and a return or onward ticket.
Which option should you choose?
- Day trip to Johor Bahru (Legoland, shopping, food): Shuttle Tebrau train, or a public bus if the train is sold out
- Kuala Lumpur on a budget: executive coach, leaving early on a weekday
- Kuala Lumpur short on time: fly, and consider flying home to India from KL to avoid backtracking
Planning the Malaysia side? Read our Malaysia travel guide and the 7-day Singapore and Malaysia itinerary.
FAQs
What is the fastest way from Singapore to Johor Bahru?
The KTM Shuttle Tebrau train from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral takes about five minutes, plus immigration time. Book ahead as it sells out at weekends.
How long is the bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur?
About 5 hours without traffic, but Causeway congestion can add 1 to 3 hours at peak times. Early weekday departures are quickest.
Do Indians need a visa to go from Singapore to Malaysia?
Indian passport holders can currently enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days and must submit the free MDAC before arrival. To return to Singapore you need a valid multiple-entry or new Singapore visa.
Is it cheaper to take the bus or fly from Singapore to KL?
The bus is usually cheaper, but flights are only about an hour and often good value when booked early. Flying saves most of a day.
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Prices and opening details change often. Figures here are approximate as of October 2026, so please check official websites before you book.
