By Bus
- Direct Bus
- Service Providers: Direct buses from Hat Yai to Penang.
- Departure Point: Hat Yai Bus Terminal.
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Cost: Around 400-600 THB.
- Process: You can purchase tickets at the bus terminal or online through various travel booking websites.
- Mini Van Services
- Service Providers: Several travel agencies in Hat Yai offer minivan services to Penang.
- Departure Point: Various travel agency offices in Hat Yai.
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Cost: Similar to bus fares.
- Process: Book through local travel agencies or guesthouses.
By Train
- Hat Yai to Butterworth
- Route: Take a train from Hat Yai Junction to Butterworth, which is the mainland town opposite Penang Island.
- Duration: Around 6-8 hours.
- Cost: Approximately 500-700 THB.
- Process: Purchase tickets at Hat Yai Junction Railway Station or online through the State Railway of Thailand’s website.
- Butterworth to Penang
- Ferry: From Butterworth, take a ferry to Penang Island (George Town).
- Duration: Ferry ride is about 15-20 minutes.
- Cost: A nominal fee of around 1.20 MYR.
- Process: Ferries run frequently; tickets can be bought at the terminal.
By Car
- Self-Driving
- Route: Drive from Hat Yai to Penang via the Bukit Kayu Hitam border crossing.
- Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.
- Requirements: Valid driver’s license, car registration documents, and car insurance that covers Malaysia.
- Process: Follow the main highway south from Hat Yai, crossing the border into Malaysia at Bukit Kayu Hitam, and then continue to Penang.
- Private Taxi
- Cost: 4000- 6500 THB
- Process: You can click here : -> Hat Yai to George Town Penang
Summary
- Bus: Direct and cost-effective, approximately 4-5 hours.
- Train: Scenic route to Butterworth, then a ferry to Penang, around 6-8 hours total.
- Car: Flexible and quicker, around 3-4 hours
Each mode of transport offers a different experience, so choose the one that best fits your schedule and preferences. Safe travels!