Flight from Ipoh to Medan

Planning a journey from Ipoh, Malaysia to Medan, Indonesia? This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need for a smooth travel experience between these two vibrant Southeast Asian destinations. From flight options and airport details to transportation tips and local attractions, we've got you covered with everything you need to know for your trip from Ipoh to Medan.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

Route: Ipoh (Malaysia) → Singapore → Medan (Indonesia)

Airlines: Scoot, Singapore Airlines

Total Flight Duration: 15h 35m

Aircraft: Airbus A320, Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger

Layovers:

• Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 12h 45m (overnight)

Please note: Flight schedules, durations, and aircraft types are subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly with Traveloka for the most up-to-date information.

About Sultan Azlan Shah - Ipoh

Location

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is located approximately 6 kilometers north of Ipoh city center in the state of Perak, Malaysia. The airport serves as a gateway to the charming colonial city of Ipoh and the surrounding region, making it an important transportation hub for both domestic and international travelers.

Airport Terminal

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport features a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. Despite its modest size, the terminal is well-organized and offers essential services for travelers. The compact layout makes it easy to navigate, with check-in counters, immigration, and baggage claim areas all within close proximity.

Transport to Airport

Several transportation options are available for reaching Sultan Azlan Shah Airport:

• Taxi: The most convenient option for travelers with luggage, taxis are readily available throughout Ipoh city. The journey from the city center to the airport typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

• Ride-hailing Services: Apps like Grab provide a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, often with fixed fares.

• Public Bus: Local buses connect Ipoh city center with the airport, offering an affordable transportation option for budget-conscious travelers.

• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate in Ipoh, providing flexibility for those who prefer to drive themselves to the airport.

Facilities

Despite being a smaller regional airport, Sultan Azlan Shah offers essential amenities for travelers:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• ATMs and currency exchange services
• Cafes and food stalls serving local and international cuisine
• Duty-free shopping for international departures
• Prayer rooms for Muslim travelers
• Tourist information counter
• Wheelchair accessibility features
• Car parking facilities

About Kualanamu International Airport - Medan

Location

Kualanamu International Airport is located in Deli Serdang Regency, approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) east of downtown Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. As the third-largest airport in Indonesia, it serves as a major gateway to Sumatra and the western part of Indonesia.

Airport Terminal

Kualanamu International Airport features a modern terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The airport replaced the former Polonia International Airport in 2013 and was designed to accommodate increasing passenger traffic with modern facilities. As the first Indonesian airport to receive a four-star rating from Skytrax, Kualanamu offers a comfortable and efficient travel experience.

The terminal is divided into domestic and international sections, with clear signage throughout to help passengers navigate. The design incorporates elements of Sumatran culture while providing a sleek, contemporary atmosphere.

Transport From Airport

Several transportation options connect Kualanamu International Airport with Medan city center:

• Airport Rail Link: One of the most convenient ways to reach Medan city center is via the Kualanamu Airport Rail Link (Kalayang Bandara Kualanamu). This train service connects the airport directly to Medan's main railway station in approximately 30-45 minutes. The trains are air-conditioned, equipped with free Wi-Fi, and offer a fast and comfortable journey away from road traffic. Tickets cost around Rp100,000 for adults (Rp50,000 if purchased online).

• Taxis: Official taxis are readily available at the airport taxi rank. The journey to Medan city center takes approximately 55 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It's advisable to use only official taxis and avoid individuals offering "cheap" rides in the parking lot.

• Ride-hailing Apps: Services like Grab and Gojek operate in the area between Medan airport and the city. To find them, exit the airport building and enter the Airport Rail Link building across the way. Keep left and leave the building through the exit to parking area B.

• Private Transfer: Pre-booked private transfers provide a hassle-free option with fixed pricing and the convenience of direct transportation to your destination.

• Damri Bus: These public buses connect the airport to various parts of Medan and surrounding regions. While budget-friendly, they may take longer (approximately 90 minutes) due to multiple stops. Buses depart next to the Airport Rail Link building at parking area A.

Facilities

Kualanamu International Airport offers a wide range of facilities and services:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Multiple dining options ranging from fast food to local cuisine
• Retail shops and duty-free shopping
• Prayer rooms and mosque
• Currency exchange services and ATMs
• Lounges for premium passengers
• Medical center and pharmacy
• Luggage storage and wrapping services
• Car rental counters
• Hotel reservation services
• Public showers
• Children's play areas

Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.

FAQ Ipoh to Medan Flight

• Question: What is the best time to visit Medan?

  Answer: The best time to visit Medan is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During these months, you'll experience less rainfall and more comfortable weather conditions for exploring the city and surrounding attractions. However, Medan can be visited year-round, with temperatures remaining relatively consistent throughout the year.

• Question: Do I need a visa to travel from Malaysia to Indonesia?

  Answer: Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Indonesia from Malaysia. However, many nationalities are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Kualanamu International Airport. The VOA is typically valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days. It's recommended to check the latest visa requirements with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before your trip, as policies may change.

• Question: What is the currency used in Medan?

  Answer: The currency used in Medan and throughout Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Currency exchange services are available at Kualanamu International Airport, but it's advisable to exchange some money before your trip or withdraw from ATMs upon arrival for better rates.

• Question: How long should I stay in Medan?

  Answer: A stay of 3-5 days is ideal for exploring Medan and its surrounding attractions. This allows enough time to experience the city's cultural sites, sample local cuisine, and take day trips to nearby destinations like Lake Toba or Berastagi. If you plan to explore more of North Sumatra, consider extending your stay.

• Question: Is English widely spoken in Medan?

  Answer: English is not as widely spoken in Medan as in some other tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. While staff at major hotels, airports, and tourist attractions may speak some English, it's helpful to learn a few basic Indonesian phrases or use a translation app. Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but many locals also speak Batak and other regional languages.

• Question: What power plugs are used in Medan?

  Answer: Indonesia uses power plugs and sockets of types C and F, with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from Malaysia may need an adapter, as Malaysia uses types G and M. Many hotels provide adapters, but it's recommended to bring your own.

• Question: Is it safe to drink tap water in Medan?

  Answer: No, it's not recommended to drink tap water in Medan. Bottled water is widely available and should be used for drinking, brushing teeth, and taking medications. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water in rooms.

• Question: What are the transportation options within Medan city?

  Answer: Within Medan, transportation options include:

  • Becaks (three-wheeled pedicabs) for short distances
  • Angkot (public minivans) following fixed routes
  • Taxis (Blue Bird is a reliable company)
  • Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek
  • Car rentals with drivers for more comfortable and flexible exploration

Other Ways to Travel From Ipoh to Medan

While flying is the most practical way to travel from Ipoh to Medan due to the geographical separation (Sumatra is an island), there are alternative routes combining multiple modes of transportation:

• Option 1: Land and Sea Route

  • Bus or train from Ipoh to Penang (3-4 hours)
  • Ferry from Penang to Belawan Port, Medan (6-7 hours, though service availability varies)
  • Local transportation from Belawan Port to Medan city center (1 hour)

  Total journey time: Approximately 10-12 hours, depending on connections

• Option 2: Land and Sea Route via Kuala Lumpur

  • Bus or train from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur (3 hours)
  • Bus from Kuala Lumpur to Port Klang (1 hour)
  • Ferry from Port Klang to Belawan Port, Medan (if available, typically overnight journey)
  • Local transportation from Belawan Port to Medan city center (1 hour)

  Total journey time: Approximately 24+ hours, depending on connections

• Option 3: Land and Multiple Flights

  • Bus from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur (3 hours)
  • Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Medan (1.5 hours)

  Total journey time: Approximately 6-7 hours, including waiting time

Please note that sea routes may have irregular schedules and limited availability. These alternative options are significantly more time-consuming and complex than flying directly from Ipoh to Medan via Singapore.

Explore Medan

Popular Destinations in Medan

• Maimun Palace: This grand palace built in 1888 showcases the cultural heritage of the Sultanate of Deli with its unique blend of Malay, Islamic, Spanish, Indian, and Italian architectural styles. The yellow-dominant palace features beautiful furniture and royal regalia, offering visitors a glimpse into royal life.

• Great Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Al Mashun): A magnificent architectural marvel built in 1906, featuring a blend of Middle Eastern, Indian, and Spanish styles. The mosque's distinctive black dome and octagonal shape make it one of Medan's most recognizable landmarks.

• Tjong A Fie Mansion: This historical house belonged to a wealthy Chinese merchant and community leader from the early 20th century. The mansion combines Chinese, Malay, and European architectural elements and offers insight into Medan's multicultural past.

• Lake Toba: Located a few hours from Medan, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and a must-visit natural attraction. The lake features Samosir Island in its center, home to the Batak culture with traditional houses and cultural performances.

• Bukit Lawang: This riverside village serves as the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park, offering opportunities for jungle trekking and observing orangutans in their natural habitat. The conservation center here focuses on rehabilitating and protecting these endangered primates.

Popular Cuisine in Medan

• Soto Medan: A fragrant soup made with coconut milk, shredded chicken, bean sprouts, and vermicelli noodles, flavored with lemongrass, ginger, and other spices. It's typically served with rice cakes (ketupat) and sambal on the side.

• Bika Ambon: Despite its name suggesting origins from Ambon, this sweet, honeycomb-textured cake is a specialty of Medan. Made from tapioca flour, eggs, sugar, and coconut milk, it has a unique chewy texture and is flavored with pandan leaves.

• Mie Aceh: A spicy noodle dish influenced by Acehnese cuisine, featuring thick yellow noodles stir-fried with a rich blend of spices, seafood or meat, and vegetables. It's typically topped with fried shallots and served with lime and green chilies.

• Durian Medan: The region is famous for its durian varieties, particularly Durian Medan, which is smaller but more aromatic than other varieties. Many local establishments offer durian-based desserts and pastries.

• Bihun Bebek: A flavorful duck soup served with rice vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and herbs. The broth is slowly simmered with various spices, creating a rich and aromatic base for this popular Medan dish.

Medan's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, with Chinese, Indian, Malay, and indigenous Batak elements creating a unique food landscape. The city is known for its bold flavors and generous use of spices, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts looking to explore Indonesian cuisine beyond the better-known Javanese and Balinese dishes.