Getting There and Away

Lush green tea plantation with visitors in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia.
Khalid Belhaji, Pexels

Cameron Highlands' main transport hub is the Tanah Rata Bus Terminal, also known as Terminal Freesia. This is the sole bus station in the area, conveniently located in Tanah Rata, approximately 4 kilometers from Brinchang. There are no direct airports or train stations within Cameron Highlands itself.

By Bus:

Buses are the most common and recommended way to reach Cameron Highlands.

  • From Kuala Lumpur:: Buses depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) and arrive at Tanah Rata Bus Terminal. The journey typically takes between 3.5 to 5 hours. Fares generally range from RM 22 to RM 53.
  • From Penang:: Buses usually depart from Sungai Nibong Terminal or Komtar, arriving at Tanah Rata Bus Terminal. The travel time is approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours. Ticket prices are typically between RM 35 and RM 50.
  • From Ipoh:: Services run from Amanjaya Bus Terminal (Terminal Meru Raya) to Tanah Rata Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, with fares ranging from RM 14 to RM 28.

By Car/Taxi/Car Rental:

Driving offers flexibility, with routes from the south (via Tapah) or north (via Simpang Pulai). A drive from Kuala Lumpur takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours. From Ipoh, the drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours. Taxis from Kuala Lumpur can cost around RM 450-550. Taxis from Ipoh may cost between RM 190-550, with booking in advance recommended. Be aware that roads can be winding, and traffic jams are common during peak seasons.

By Train:

There are no direct train services to Cameron Highlands. The nearest train stations are Tapah Road or Ipoh. Continuing from these stations requires a transfer via bus or taxi, making it a less straightforward option compared to direct bus travel.

By Flight:

Cameron Highlands does not have an airport. The closest airports are Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh (approximately 85 km away) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) (around 250 km away). From either airport, onward travel to Cameron Highlands requires a bus, taxi, or private transfer.