By Bus

  1. 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.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  1. 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

  1. 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.
  1. Private Taxi

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!