Planning a journey from Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun? Whether you’re booking your ticket for business, leisure, or family, understanding your travel route, airport facilities, and other modes of transport can make your trip smoother. Here, discover essential details for your Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Iskandar Airport, Pangkalan Bun (PKN) route, plus travel tips, destination insights, and answers to common questions.
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Kuala Lumpur International Airport - Kuala Lumpur
Location
Kuala Lumpur International Airport, commonly known as KLIA, is Malaysia’s primary international gateway, located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Kuala Lumpur’s city center. The airport sits on 100 square kilometers of land, making it one of the world’s largest airport sites. Its strategic location provides easy access to Kuala Lumpur and surrounding cities via multiple transport options.
Airport Terminal
KLIA is comprised of two main terminals:
- KLIA Terminal 1 (previously simply KLIA/Main Terminal) – Serves as the main terminal for full-service carriers, including Malaysia Airlines, and several international airlines.
- KLIA Terminal 2 (formerly known as klia2) – Dedicated to low-cost carriers, with AirAsia and affiliates operating the majority of flights.
Both terminals share the airport code KUL and are connected by a free shuttle bus and the Aerotrain, providing efficient transfers between them. Each terminal has direct access to check-in, immigration, and extensive retail and dining options.
Transport to Airport
Reaching Kuala Lumpur International Airport is straightforward, thanks to a variety of transportation options:
- KLIA Ekspres/Transit: High-speed rail links KL Sentral in the city center to both airport terminals in under 35 minutes.
- Airport Bus: Multiple coach operators run regular services from KL Sentral, as well as various points in Kuala Lumpur and surrounding regions.
- Taxi and e-Hailing: Metered taxis, as well as popular ride-hailing services, are available to and from both terminals, with fixed-rate coupons at the airport taxi counters.
- Private Car and Parking: Extensive parking facilities are available, including short-term and long-term options close to the terminals.
Facilities
KLIA offers a wide range of amenities to cater to international and domestic travelers, including:
- Comfortable lounges for passengers of all classes
- Extensive selection of dining outlets, from fast food to fine dining
- Shopping options with duty-free goods, souvenirs, and convenience stores
- Free WiFi throughout public areas
- Dedicated prayer rooms and quiet zones
- Children’s play areas and baby-care facilities
- Medical clinics and pharmacies
- Luggage storage and lost & found services
- Business and conference centers
For more details, visit Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
About Iskandar - Pangkalan Bun
Location
Iskandar Airport (PKN) is located in Pangkalan Bun, the capital city of West Kotawaringin Regency in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The airport is the main gateway to the region, situated conveniently within a short drive from Pangkalan Bun’s city center.
Airport Terminal
Iskandar Airport operates as a combined military and public airport. The terminal is compact but efficient, handling domestic flights that connect Pangkalan Bun with other key Indonesian cities. While smaller than KLIA, it provides basic passenger amenities and a friendly atmosphere.
Transport From Airport
Traveling from Iskandar Airport to Pangkalan Bun and beyond is easy:
- Taxi: Taxis and local ride services are available directly outside the terminal for quick access to the city or nearby hotels.
- Private Car: Rental car services and pre-booked transfers can be arranged in advance or at the airport.
- Public Transport: Some local minibus (angkot) routes may serve the airport, but pre-arranged transport is recommended for convenience and safety.
Facilities
Iskandar Airport offers essential facilities for travelers, including:
- Waiting lounge and comfortable seating areas
- Basic food kiosks and snacks
- Restrooms and prayer rooms
- Car rental and taxi booking services
- Small souvenir shops with local products
For more details, visit Iskandar.
FAQ Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun Flight
- Are there direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun? Most flights between Kuala Lumpur and Pangkalan Bun require at least one layover, often transiting in Jakarta or Surabaya. Direct flights are rare; always check current schedules on Traveloka.
- What airlines operate the Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun route? Commonly, major regional carriers such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Garuda Indonesia, and Lion Air operate on this route, usually with a transfer in a major Indonesian city.
- How long does a typical flight from Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun take? The fastest one-stop or connecting flights typically take 5-8 hours, including layover time. Actual duration depends on the connection city and layover duration.
- What is the baggage allowance for this route? Baggage policy varies according to airline and class of service. Generally, checked baggage of 20-30kg is included for full-service airlines, while low-cost carriers offer it for an additional fee. Always verify baggage rules before booking.
- Do I need a visa for this journey? Malaysian and many ASEAN passport holders do not require a visa for short stays in Indonesia. Travelers from other countries should check current entry requirements prior to travel.
- How do I get from Pangkalan Bun Airport to Tanjung Puting National Park? From Iskandar Airport, arrange transport to Kumai Port (about 20-30 minutes by taxi), where boats depart for Tanjung Puting. Many tour operators offer pickup services from the airport.
- Can I book both international and domestic segments together on Traveloka? Yes, Traveloka allows seamless booking of both international and connecting domestic flights within Indonesia on one itinerary.
- What is the best time to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun? The dry season (April to September) offers the best weather for travel and exploring Central Kalimantan, especially for visits to Tanjung Puting National Park.
Other Ways to Travel From Kuala Lumpur to Pangkalan Bun
If you prefer not to fly, or are seeking an overland adventure, these are alternative travel options:
- Kuala Lumpur to Jakarta/Surabaya (flight), then Ferry/Bus to Central Kalimantan: You can fly to Jakarta or Surabaya, then take a ferry to Central Kalimantan (Pangkalan Bun) via Kumai Port. Ferry crossings can take 24-36 hours and are dependent on weather.
- Kuala Lumpur to Pontianak (flight), Bus to Central Kalimantan: Fly to Pontianak (West Kalimantan), then travel via long-distance bus or private car to Pangkalan Bun. This route is more adventurous and involves several stages.
- Train/Bus (Malaysia-Indonesia land border): Overland travel from Malaysia into Kalimantan is complex, involving multiple transport changes and can take several days. Not recommended unless you are seeking a unique backpacking experience.
All alternative options are considerably longer than flying and require careful planning, but they can offer unique insights into the region’s culture and scenery.
Explore Pangkalan Bun
Popular Destinations in Pangkalan Bun
- Tanjung Puting National Park Home to the world-renowned Camp Leakey and orangutan conservation projects, Tanjung Puting is a rainforest paradise accessible only by boat tour from Kumai.
- Camp Leakey A famous research and rehabilitation center for orangutans, open to visitors on guided tours in Tanjung Puting National Park.
- Kumai River and Floating Villages Explore the riverside stilt communities and witness daily life along the Kumai River, often part of boat tours to the national park.
- Istana Kuning (Yellow Palace) The former royal palace of the Sultanate of Kotawaringin, now open to the public as a museum showcasing local culture and history.
- Arut River Enjoy scenic boat rides on the Arut River, which winds through Pangkalan Bun and offers views of local wildlife and traditional villages.
Popular Cuisine in Pangkalan Bun
- Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish) Fresh river fish grilled with local spices, a staple in many restaurants and warungs.
- Soto Banjar A hearty chicken soup flavored with spices and typically enjoyed with rice or noodles.
- Pakat Young rattan shoots, boiled and served with spicy sambal, reflecting the Dayak culinary heritage.
- Ayam Cincane Grilled chicken marinated in a rich, spicy red sauce, originally from Kalimantan.
- Nasi Kuning Fragrant yellow rice served with assorted side dishes, often enjoyed during celebrations or as a special breakfast.
Whether you’re a nature lover, culinary explorer, or cultural enthusiast, Pangkalan Bun and its surrounding wonders await. Book your journey with confidence on Traveloka and start your Kalimantan adventure today!
For more details on booking, visit Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Iskandar on Traveloka.