Guide To Kuala Lumpur Airports: Terminals, Services, And Travel Tips

A grand view of an airplane at KLIA2, one of the top Airports of Kuala Lumpur City.

If you are on a trip to or via Malaysia, you will be using the state-of-the-art airports in Kuala Lumpur. These airports are equipped with all the facilities and comforts to pep up your travel mood. The organisation and competence of the country’s primary travel gateways represent its appeal and familiarise the travellers with the essence of the country’s travel culture. The grand and facilitating airports not only make one’s travel smooth, but they also define visitors’ perception of the country.

Best Airports In Kuala Lumpur

There are 3 main airports in Kuala Lumpur, boasting five stories, ten gates, and seamless connectivity. Read on for an insight into these top airports.

1. Kuala Lumpur International Airport / KLIA1 – Main Terminal

People relaxing in the comfortable and spacious seating area of KLIA1 Airport terminal

Photo: *angys* / Wikimedia Commons

KLIA1 serves as Kuala Lumpur’s primary international airport, mainly operated by Malaysia Airlines. Along with standard services like inter-terminal transfers, immigration, and security screening, KLIA1 stands out for its leisure amenities, making it an ideal stopover for travellers in need of rest. The airport features multiple premium lounges, including the Plaza Premium Lounge, Global Lounge, and Travel Club Lounge, providing a relaxing space for passengers. Additional facilities such as prayer rooms, showers, and massage services further enhance the travel experience, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing journey.

IATA Code: KUL
Type: International & Domestic Airport Terminal
Location: Sepang, about 45 km south of Kuala Lumpur
Main Airlines Served: Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, international carriers

2. Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 / KLIA2

A view of an AirAsia flight near the runway of Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2.

Photo: Pangalau / Wikimedia Commons

KLIA2 is Kuala Lumpur’s dedicated low-cost carrier terminal, primarily serving AirAsia flights. Located just 1.5 km from KLIA1, it offers seamless connectivity, with a quick 3-minute train ride between the two terminals. Despite being a budget terminal, KLIA2 is well-equipped with essential airport facilities and premium services. Travellers can access luxury lounges like the Sky Suite Airport Lounge, unwind with massage services, or visit prayer rooms for added comfort during their journey.

IATA Code: KUL
Type: International & Domestic Airport Terminal
Location: Next to KLIA Main Terminal
Main Airlines: AirAsia (low-cost carrier hub)

3. Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport / Subang Airport

An exterior view from the tarmac shows people approaching Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport.

Photo: Sergey / Wikimedia Commons

Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, also known as Subang Airport, primarily serves domestic and short-haul regional flights. It is well-equipped with essential facilities, including elevators, restrooms, and diverse dining options, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. The airport’s Skypark Terminal features a Selcare Clinic, emphasising health and safety awareness for travellers. Additionally, the Sky Lounge provides a premium experience, offering a relaxing environment with conference facilities (available on a payment basis), television, refreshments, air conditioning, and reading materials.

IATA Code: SZB
Type: Domestic Airport Terminal
Location: Subang, about 25 km west of Kuala Lumpur
Main Airlines: Firefly, Berjaya Air, Raya Airways

Top Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a city known for its vivid mix of modern skyscrapers, shopping cultures and cultural sites. Let us glimpse at the list of some must-visit places.

1. Petronas Twin Towers

A stunning view of the prime sightseeing attraction of Kuala Lumpur, the Twin Towers.

Photo: Iamsantanubose / Wikimedia Commons

Kuala Lumpur offers you an experience of gazing at and from, the tallest twin towers in the world. The most iconic landmark lists itself as one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world. 1,483 feet tall, offering panoramic views, these twin towers are connected by the Skybridge. In addition, there is the Observation Deck for the grand-city views again, on the 86th floor.

Ticket Price: Adults: RM 98 / ₹1,764, Children: RM 50 / ₹900, Senior Citizens: RM 50/ ₹900
How To Reach: KLCC: 3 min walk, Kampung Baru: 9 min walk

2. Batu Caves

A picture of the famous colourful staircase and the Deity at the Batu Caves

Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons

A Hindu pilgrimage site outside India forms a lucrative destination for Malaysian tourists. A massive golden statue of Lord Murugan is its prime appeal. What adds to the charm is the colourful staircases, and the mystical caves housing Hindu temples. There are many other fascinating caves here like the Main Temple Cave, and the Ramayana Cave. The latter houses colourful statues and paintings representing the epic of Ramayana. Tourists may also enjoy feeding the monkeys.

Visiting Information: Morning: Before 9 AM, Evening: After 5 PM
Entry Fee: Main Temple Cave: Free, Ramayana Cave: RM 5 / ₹90
How To Reach: By a 30-minute KTM Komuter train from KL Sentral to Batu Caves Station. You can also take a 30-minute Car/Grab from central Kuala Lumpur.

3. Aquaria KLCC

A picture of a huge aquarium at Aquaria KLCC, the underwater adventure destination.

Photo: SAM Cheong / Wikimedia Commons

Aquaria KLCC offers an unforgettable underwater adventure, showcasing Malaysia’s rich marine life. Located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, this world-class oceanarium is a must-visit for sea-life enthusiasts. Home to over 5,000 marine and freshwater creatures, it provides an immersive glimpse into the depths of the ocean. The highlight of the experience is a 90-meter-long underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk through and observe sharks, stingrays, giant groupers, and other fascinating sea creatures up close.

Visiting Information: Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (Last Entry: 6 PM)
Ticket Prices: Adults: RM 79 / ₹1,422, Children (3-12 years): RM 69 / ₹1,242, Seniors (60+ years): RM 69 / ₹1,242
How To Reach: Aquaria KLCC is within walking distance from the Twin Towers and is located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Where To Stay

An attractive view of the interior, the pool-side of a gorgeous Kuala Lumpur luxury hotel.

Photo: Jordiferrer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For travellers looking for the best location to stay in the capital city of Malaysia, Bukit Bintang is a preferred district. It offers the best mix of shopping, nightlife, and dining. The area has many hotels replete with all comforts, from high-end to budget services. This tourist hotspot offers a luxury stay option at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. A top-tier hotel with a 5-star rating, it has luxury provisions and awesome hospitality services. Hotel Capitol is again a great option for budget travellers looking for promising hospitality in this great location.

Where To Eat

A picture of people at one of the many, bustling and elaborate KL restaurants.

Photo: Ignis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kuala Lumpur offers a vivid platter of cuisines and tastes to suit diverse people. A famous dining destination is Dewakan which has a modern Malaysian cuisine. Marini’s on 57 must also be mentioned when talking of notable food joints. It is Malaysia’s highest rooftop dining destination offering panoramic city views. Bintang Walk is another name known for a line of restaurants including Arabic and local Malaysian dishes. Then, Jalan Alor is a famous street food destination for Chinese-food lovers and more.

Tips For Travellers

The Kuala Lumpur Airport is a modern airport with several accessibility features

Photo: AhmadElq / Wikimedia Commons

  • Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your flight to account for traffic delays and ensure a smooth check-in process.
  • Keep your travel documents easily accessible to avoid any last-minute hassle.
  • For efficient travel within Kuala Lumpur, opt for public transport options like the MRT, LRT, Monorail, or KTM trains to avoid traffic congestion.
  • While most retailers accept card payments, carrying some cash is useful for small vendors. Additionally, many locals use digital payment apps like Touch ‘n Go eWallet.
  • Dress in light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in Kuala Lumpur’s humid climate.

The airports in Kuala Lumpur offer a blend of modern design, top-tier infrastructure, and high-end amenities. From comfort and punctual flights to robust security, they cater to every traveller’s needs. With around a million globetrotters passing through KL airports daily, visitor feedback remains highly positive. Beyond the airport experience, Malaysia offers a world of breathtaking sightseeing, delicious cuisine, and luxurious stays. If you’re planning a trip to or through Malaysia, let TripXL enhance your journey with a stress-free travel experience.

Cover Photo: Md Shaifuzzaman Ayon / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

There are two airports, though they are near to each other and are considered as two terminals of the main airport- KLIA1, and KLIA2. For people travelling through all major airlines KLIA1 is the useful one, while KLIA2 serves people travelling by budget airlines like AirAsia. The next most popular on the list is Subang Airport.
Malaysia is a popular tourist destination, which is reflected in the numerous airports surrounding its cities, providing convenient access for travellers. In Kuala Lumpur, the capital, there are three major airports facilitating easy commuting.
The airport is about 55 km (34 miles) from the city centre.
Yes, all kinds of taxis, even a Grab are found for travellers, right from the airport vicinity. Also, there are fixed-fare airport taxi counters to rent from. There are taxis in all fair ranges so even budget travellers will find a cab easily.
Yes, there are many bus services (direct and indirect) that run on this route, namely Skybus, Aerobus, and Airport Coach. They are comfortable, run timely, and offer many drop points to suit travellers’ preferences.
The Best Time To Visit the city of Kuala Lumpur is from May to July and then from December to February. This is due to the fact that these are the months with the most pleasant weather and less rainfall. The humidity is low too, making it comfortable.

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