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Bus from Penang to Hat Yai

Complete guide to bus travel from Penang to Hat Yai — schedules, prices, operators and booking tips.

From 350 THBStarting price
4–5 hoursJourney time
180 kmDistance
3+Operators

About the Penang to Hat Yai Bus Route

The Penang to Hat Yai bus is the return journey on one of Thailand's most popular routes. The Penang to Hat Yai bus is one of Southeast Asia's most popular overland border crossings, connecting southern Thailand with Malaysia's most celebrated city.

Route Details & Travel Information

George Town on Penang island is a UNESCO World Heritage city with extraordinary street food, stunning colonial architecture, vibrant street art and a rich multicultural heritage. It is one of Malaysia's most visited destinations and a natural next stop on a journey south from Thailand.

The bus from Penang to Hat Yai crosses the Thai-Malaysian border at Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam, one of the region's busiest land border crossings. The bus stops at both Thai and Malaysian immigration checkpoints — the total crossing typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Most western passport holders receive a free visa on arrival for 90 days in Malaysia — check your specific nationality before travelling. No prior application is required at this crossing.

VIP buses run several times daily and drop passengers in central George Town at Komtar Bus Terminal, from where Georgetown's famous street food, clan jetties and colonial shophouses are within easy reach. The journey takes 4 to 5 hours including the border crossing.

Bus Operators

The following operators run regular services on the Penang–Hat Yai route:

  • Penang Travel — licensed, air-conditioned service
  • Butterworth Express — licensed, air-conditioned service
  • Cross-border operators — licensed, air-conditioned service

Compare prices across all operators before booking — fares can vary significantly by class and season.

Departure Schedule

Departures: 07:00 / 10:00 / 14:00 / 17:00

From: Komtar Bus Terminal, George Town, Penang

To: Hat Yai Bus Terminal

Schedules may vary by operator and season. Confirm departure times when booking, particularly during Thai public holidays.

Travel Tip

✅ No Malaysian visa needed for most western passport holders — 90 days visa-on-arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the bus from Penang to Hat Yai?+
The journey takes 4–5 hours. Check your specific nationality's requirements before travelling.
How much does the Penang to Hat Yai bus cost?+
From 350 THB. The border stop at Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for immigration on both sides.
Where does the bus from Penang to Hat Yai depart?+
Buses depart from Komtar Bus Terminal, George Town, Penang.
Where does the bus arrive in Hat Yai?+
Buses arrive at Hat Yai Bus Terminal.
Should I book in advance?+
Book 1–2 days ahead on weekdays. During Thai public holidays and peak season (November–February), book at least one week in advance.

Related Routes

Bangkok → Hat Yai

14–16 hours · From 550 THB

Hat Yai → Penang

4–5 hours · From 350 THB

Phuket → Hat Yai

6–7 hours · From 300 THB

Phuket → Penang

8–10 hours · From 450 THB

Hat Yai → Bangkok

14–16 hours · From 550 THB

Route Summary

FromPenang
ToHat Yai
Duration4–5 hours
Distance180 km
Price fromFrom 350 THB
Departures07:00 / 10:00 / 14:00 / 17:00
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Booking Tips

Book 1–2 days ahead on weekdays. During Songkran (April), New Year and long weekends, book at least one week in advance — buses sell out fast on popular routes.