The Jungle Railway in Malaysia offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience, taking you through scenic landscapes, historic towns, and dense jungles. This train journey is more than just a ride; it’s an adventure that lets you explore the beauty and culture of Malaysia from a unique perspective.
Imagine winding through dense jungle canopies, crossing rivers, and passing villages that seem untouched by modernity. The Jungle Line is not your typical travel route, but it’s one that promises adventure and a deep connection with Malaysia’s natural beauty. Here’s why you should experience this hidden gem and how to plan your journey.
Disclaimer: This post was crafted with the assistance of ChatGPT for the initial drafting and copywriting. However, all facts have been carefully verified, and the entire content has been thoroughly proofread and finalised by me to ensure accuracy and authenticity. As this is the first time I’m trying out this new approach, let me know what you think about it in the comments below!
In this post …
- What is the Jungle Railway: Introduction to this historic and scenic train route through Malaysia’s rainforests.
- Why You Should Experience It: Highlights of the journey’s unique charm, scenic views, and cultural immersion.
- Interesting Stops: Must-visit stops along the route and what makes them special.
- Costs: An overview of ticket prices and affordability.
- Buying Tickets: Steps to book tickets easily and key tips.
- Schedules: Timetable details for planning your trip.
- Onboard Experience: Insights into the train’s features, such as:
- Sleeping Berths: Options for overnight travel.
- Premium Seats: Comfort upgrades.
- Dining Car: Food availability and quality.
- Toilets: Practical expectations.
- Other Useful Links: Additional resources for travelers.
What is the Jungle Railway
The Jungle Railway, or East Coast Line, runs from Gemas to Tumpat, taking you deep into Malaysia’s (relatively) untouched, natural beauty. Built in the 1920s during British colonial rule, it was originally used to transport rubber and tin through Malaysia’s rugged landscapes. Most people think of Malaysia for its cities and beaches, but this train ride offers a whole different side of the country—one full of history, wildlife, and remote villages. If you’re coming from Singapore, the daily sleeper train from Johor Bahru to Tumpat is a convenient option that lets you experience this overnight adventure firsthand.
Why you should experience the Jungle Railway
The Jungle Railway offers an escape into Malaysia’s heartland, where modern life fades into the background, and nature takes over. It’s not just a train ride—it’s an immersive journey through rainforests, past limestone hills, and into villages that feel like they’ve been frozen in time. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or nature lover, this journey is a rare opportunity to experience Malaysia’s rustic side, away from the crowds and fast-paced cities. It’s an adventure that combines nostalgia, beauty, and the thrill of discovery.
Interesting stops along the Jungle Railway – South to North, ranked
Jerantut – #2
Jerantut is the gateway to Taman Negara, one of the oldest rainforests in the world. If you’re a nature enthusiast, Taman Negara is the perfect place to experience jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and river cruises. The town itself is a quiet, traditional Malaysian settlement, offering a glimpse into rural life.
Kuala Lipis – #4
This small, charming town takes you back to Malaysia’s colonial era with its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic railway station. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant spot for a peaceful break.
Gua Musang – #3
Gua Musang, framed by dramatic limestone hills and dense rainforest, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Its namesake caves, adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites, invite exploration and wonder. This scenic destination is perfect for hiking and discovering Malaysia’s rich natural landscapes.
Dabong – #5
Dabong offers one of the most picturesque views along the railway, with its proximity to the Gunung Stong State Park and Sungai Nenggiri River. The town is a gateway for outdoor adventures like rafting and exploring Stong Waterfall, one of Malaysia’s tallest waterfalls. It’s perfect for those looking for nature and adventure. Read more about my visit to Dabong here.
Tumpat (and Kota Bharu) – #1
Tumpat, located just outside Kota Bharu, is the last stop on the Jungle Railway. Known for its Wat Photivihan temple, this town serves as a cultural crossroads with strong Thai influences. Kota Bharu, just a short drive away, is Kelantan’s vibrant capital, offering a rich blend of Malay and Thai culture, with bustling markets and delicious local cuisine. Read about my visit to Tumpat and Kota Bharu here.
Planning your route
The sleeper train departs once a day in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat via Gemas. If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can board the train at Gemas. The eastbound train departs JB Sentral at 8:25pm daily, passing Gemas at 1:18am and arriving at Tumpat 12:54pm. The southbound train departs Tumpat at 8:30pm, passes Gemas at 7:44am and arrving at JB Sentral 12:30pm, a journey of about 16 hours.
If you are doing short stretches of the Jungle Raily, you’ll have more options on scheduling, though not that much more either. Refer to the KTMB website (Intercity Southbound & Eastbound Train) for the latest stops and timings. Do note that trains may skip stops depending on the train number.
On my first trip on the Jungle Railway, I took the sleeper from JB Sentral to Tumpat, then made stops at Kota Bharu, Perhentian Islands and Dabong before returning to Singapore. I’d love to check out the rest of the highlights in future trips.
Lockers at Johor Bahru (JB)
If you arrive early at Johor Bahru and need a place to store your belongings before your departure, lockers are conveniently available at two malls near the train station: Johor Bahru City Square and Komtar JBCC.
- Johor Bahru City Square: The lockers are located in the basement, near the escalators. To find them, take the escalator next to Lovisa.
- Komtar JBCC: You can reach Komtar JBCC by crossing the bridge from JB Sentral to Johor Bahru City Square and turning right to enter Komtar JBCC. Once inside, take the escalator down half a level, and you’ll find the lockers there.
The lockers cost RM 10 for a smaller size and RM 20 for a larger size, with a 24-hour rental period (as of June 2023).
How much does the Jungle Railway cost (last checked in December 2024)
Tickets are relatively affordable for such an epic experience. For the full journey from JB Sentral to Tumpat, from least to most expensive:
- MYR 44 (SGD 13.37/ USD 9.96) for a second class seat (train car 2, 3 and 4)
- MYR 50 (SGD 15.19/ USD 11.31) for a lower sleeper berth and MYR 56 (SGD 17.01/ USD 12.67) for an upper berth (train car 6, 7 and 8)
- MYR 117 (SGD 35.54/ USD 26.48) for a first class seat (train car 1), but I’m not sure if they are differentiated sufficiently to justify the difference in price
For refreshments, there is also a dining car (T5) which serves hot drinks, snacks, and simple meals. Not necessarily cheap but inexpensive. If I recall correctly it was approximately RM 10 for a plate of fried rice in 2023.
How to buy tickets
You can book tickets for the Jungle Railway through the KTM website, the KTM mobile app, or at train stations. Sleeper berths, especially on weekends, sell out fast, so book early to secure your spot. The app is user-friendly—after payment, your tickets are emailed directly to you. To complete the booking, you’ll need to provide your passport number, expiry date, gender and credit card details.
What to expect onboard the Jungle Railway
Here’s a 1 minute video summary of the views on the sleeper train from JB Sentral to Tumpat:
Views
The scenery along the Jungle Railway is as diverse as it is captivating, offering a mix of urban, rustic, and natural landscapes. The journey begins with urbanized areas as the train departs from Johor Bahru, gradually transitioning into quieter countryside as night falls. By dawn, the view becomes more rural, with stretches of oil palm plantations setting the tone for the countryside’s charm.
As the train approaches the mountains, the landscape transforms dramatically. Rugged terrain gives way to striking limestone cliffs and dramatic rock formations, painting a picture of raw natural beauty. Deeper into the jungle, the train winds along massive rivers, crossing historic bridges that add a sense of timelessness to the journey.
Towards the northern end, the dense jungle clears, and the scenery shifts to open farmlands and peaceful fields, offering a gentle conclusion to the adventure. This constant evolution of landscapes makes the Jungle Railway a journey worth savoring, providing a glimpse into the varied beauty of Malaysia.
Sleeping berths
Sleeping berths on the Jungle Railway offer a practical and comfortable way to experience the journey, especially for the overnight service between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. Here’s what to expect:
- Configuration and Comfort
The sleeper berths are arranged in an open-plan layout with upper and lower bunks on either side of the aisle. Each bunk comes with basic bedding, including a pillow and blanket, making it reasonably comfortable for a night’s rest. The lower bunks are slightly more spacious and convenient, while the upper ones are cozier and less accessible for some travelers. - Privacy and Space
While the berths are open, they are separated by curtains that provide a degree of privacy. The space is sufficient for sleeping and storing small bags, though larger luggage might need to be placed in designated areas. - Ambience
The atmosphere in the sleeper car is relatively quiet and dimly lit, designed to help passengers relax. However, ambient noise from the train’s movement and occasional announcements may require light sleepers to bring earplugs. - Accessibility
The berths are easy to access, but the upper bunks require a bit of climbing. Elderly passengers or those with mobility concerns may prefer lower bunks for convenience. - Amenities
There is a small bedside light available at each berth. There is no Wifi or electricity socket available at the berths. - Availability and Demand
Sleeping berths are popular and tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends and public holidays. Booking in advance via the KTM website or app is strongly recommended
Seats
Here’s a look at the first and second class seats on the overnight direct train:
On the shorter day time trains, seats may look something like this:
Dining car/ Food on board
There is a dining car available on the overnight sleeper train. The restaurant car, located in the middle of the train, serves simple meals, hot and cold drinks, and snacks, with a few tables available for dining. At times, it can get crowded with long queues and no seating available. Other times, it’s quiet and offers a relaxing spot to enjoy a snack while soaking in the scenery. It’s a bit of luck whether you find it bustling or serene, but it’s worth a visit for a quick refreshment during the journey.
Toilets
The toilets on the Jungle Railway are basic, so it’s best to come prepared. Pack your own hand sanitizer and toilet paper, as these essentials may not always be available during the journey.
While the toilets started clean and serviceable at the beginning of the trip, they quickly become less pleasant as the journey progressed.
Safety and Security
The Jungle Railway journey felt generally safe, and at no point did we feel that our personal safety was at risk. However, it’s always wise to take precautions. We kept our valuables with us at all times since there are no secure storage options onboard.
One aspect to be mindful of, especially if you’re traveling with children, is that the train doors do not always close while the train is moving. This can be a safety concern, so keep an eye on young travelers and stay cautious when moving between carriages.
Other useful links
- Booking website: https://online.ktmb.com.my
- Timetables: https://www.ktmb.com.my/TrainTime.html
- Seat 61’s post on the Jungle Line and rail travel in Malaysia: https://www.seat61.com/Malaysia.htm#The_Jungle_Line
