Flight From Shanghai (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

Comprehensive Guide to Flying from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a seamless journey from the bustling metropolis of Shanghai to the vibrant capital of Malaysia? The Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur route offers travelers multiple options with direct flights covering the 2,358-mile journey in approximately 5.5 hours. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or visiting family, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two dynamic Asian cities. From direct flights to layover options, airport information, and travel tips, we've got you covered for a smooth travel experience with Traveloka.

Direct Flights

The Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur route is well-served with approximately 7-8 direct flights daily. Here are the primary airlines offering non-stop service between Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL):

• Airline: AirAsia X

- Average Flight Duration: 5 hours 40 minutes

- Aircraft Used: Airbus A330

- Flight Details: Overnight flight from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

• Airline: Shanghai Airlines

- Average Flight Duration: 5 hours 15 minutes

- Aircraft Used: Boeing 737

- Flight Details: Direct flight from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

• Airline: Malaysia Airlines

- Average Flight Duration: 5 hours 35 minutes

- Aircraft Used: Airbus A330

- Flight Details: Direct flight from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

• Airline: China Eastern

- Average Flight Duration: 6 hours 10 minutes

- Aircraft Used: Airbus A320

- Flight Details: Overnight flight from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

The earliest flight departs Shanghai Pudong at 12:10 AM, landing in Kuala Lumpur at 5:40 AM, while the latest departure is at 6:55 PM, arriving at 12:55 AM. Most flights operate during nighttime hours, making it convenient for travelers who want to maximize their time in either city. With 50 flights operating weekly between the two cities, Friday is the most popular departure day, accounting for 16% of all weekly flights.

Layover Flights

If direct flights don't fit your schedule or budget, consider these connecting flight options that can sometimes offer better deals:

• Route: Shanghai (China) → Shenzhen (China) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

- Airlines: Air China, Shenzhen Airlines

- Total Flight Duration: 20 hours 10 minutes

- Aircraft: Airbus A350, Boeing 737

- Layovers: Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX), Shenzhen, China layover for 13 hours (overnight)

• Route: Shanghai (China) → Shenzhen (China) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

- Airlines: Shenzhen Airlines

- Total Flight Duration: 9 hours 35 minutes

- Aircraft: Airbus A320, Boeing 737

- Layovers: Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX), Shenzhen, China layover for 2 hours 40 minutes

• Route: Shanghai (China) → Hong Kong (China) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

- Airlines: Cathay Pacific

- Total Flight Duration: 8 hours 5 minutes

- Aircraft: Airbus A330 (both flights)

- Layovers: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Hong Kong, China layover for 1 hour 10 minutes

While layovers extend your total travel time, they can provide an opportunity to explore another city briefly or find more budget-friendly fare options. Other popular layover cities include Singapore (Changi International Airport), Guangzhou (Baiyun International Airport), Xiamen (Gaoqi International Airport), and Penang (International Airport).

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

About Pudong - Shanghai

Location

Pudong International Airport (PVG) is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of downtown Shanghai in the Pudong New Area. As one of China's major international gateways, it serves as a hub for China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, and numerous other domestic and international carriers. The airport's strategic location makes it easily accessible from all parts of Shanghai via various transportation options.

Airport Terminal

Pudong International Airport features two main passenger terminals:

• Terminal 1: Primarily serves domestic flights and international flights operated by Air China, Shanghai Airlines, and other Star Alliance members.
• Terminal 2: Handles most international flights, including those to Kuala Lumpur, and is the home terminal for China Eastern Airlines and other SkyTeam alliance members.

Both terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service and an automated people mover system, allowing for easy transfers between terminals if needed.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Pudong International Airport from Shanghai city center is convenient with multiple transportation options:

• Shanghai Maglev Train: The world's fastest commercial train service connects Longyang Road Station to Pudong Airport in just 8 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 430 km/h (267 mph).
• Metro Line 2: Connects downtown Shanghai to Pudong Airport, taking approximately 60-70 minutes from People's Square.
• Airport Shuttle Buses: Multiple lines connect different parts of the city to the airport.
• Taxis and Ride-sharing: The journey from central Shanghai takes around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, covering the 30 km distance.
• Private Car Services: Can be booked in advance through Traveloka for a hassle-free journey to the airport.

Facilities

Pudong International Airport offers world-class facilities to ensure a comfortable experience before your flight to Kuala Lumpur:

• Dining: A wide range of restaurants and cafes offering Chinese and international cuisine
• Shopping: Duty-free stores and retail outlets selling luxury brands, electronics, and souvenirs
• Lounges: Multiple airline lounges and pay-per-use lounges for rest and relaxation
• Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminals
• Currency Exchange: Multiple counters in both terminals
• Banking Services: ATMs and bank branches
• Medical Services: First aid stations and pharmacy
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for religious observance
• Children's Play Areas: Entertainment zones for young travelers
• Charging Stations: Throughout the terminals for electronic devices

About Kuala Lumpur International Airport - Kuala Lumpur

Location

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is situated in Sepang district, approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Kuala Lumpur city center. As Malaysia's main international gateway, it serves as the home base for Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air. The airport's strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it an important hub connecting Asia with the rest of the world.

Airport Terminal

KLIA consists of two main terminals separated by approximately 2 kilometers:

• KLIA Main Terminal (T1): Handles most full-service carriers, including Malaysia Airlines, and flights from Shanghai Airlines and China Eastern.
• KLIA2 (T2): Primarily serves low-cost carriers, including AirAsia, and is one of the world's largest purpose-built terminals for budget airlines.

Both terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service and the KLIA Ekspres train, which takes about 3 minutes between terminals.

Transport From Airport

Travelers arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport have several options to reach the city center:

• KLIA Ekspres: A high-speed train service connecting the airport to KL Sentral in just 28 minutes.
• KLIA Transit: Makes intermediate stops between the airport and KL Sentral, taking approximately 35 minutes.
• Airport Coach and Bus Services: Multiple operators offer services to various destinations in Kuala Lumpur.
• Taxis and Ride-sharing: Available at designated areas, with the journey to the city center taking around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
• Car Rental: Several agencies offer rental services at both terminals.
• Private Transfer: Pre-arranged transfers can be booked through Traveloka for a comfortable journey to your accommodation.

Facilities

Kuala Lumpur International Airport offers comprehensive facilities for travelers:

• Dining: A diverse range of local and international restaurants, food courts, and cafes
• Shopping: Duty-free outlets, local specialty shops, and international brand stores
• Lounges: Multiple airline lounges and pay-per-use facilities
• Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout both terminals
• Prayer Rooms: Muslim prayer facilities (surau) available in multiple locations
• Rest & Relaxation Zones: Dedicated areas for relaxation
• Currency Exchange: Multiple counters in both terminals
• ATMs and Banking Services: Conveniently located throughout the airport
• Medical Facilities: Clinics and first aid stations
• Baggage Services: Storage, wrapping, and porter services
• Transit Hotel: In-terminal accommodation options for layovers
• Shower Facilities: Available in lounges and transit hotels

FAQ Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur Flight

• Question: What is the average flight time from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: The average non-stop flight time from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL) is approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes, covering a distance of 2,358 miles.

• Question: How many direct flights operate between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur daily?

Answer: There are approximately 7-8 non-stop flights daily between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur, with a total of about 50 flights per week. Friday is the most popular day for departures with 16% of weekly flights.

• Question: Which airlines offer direct flights from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: Airlines operating direct flights on this route include Malaysia Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, China Eastern, and AirAsia X, with flights departing from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

• Question: What is the cheapest time to fly from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: November is generally the low season with cheaper fares, while October is considered the high season with higher prices. The cheapest available fare can be as low as $78 for a one-way flight, though prices fluctuate seasonally.

• Question: Can I fly from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: Direct flights to Kuala Lumpur primarily operate from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). From Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA), you would need to take a connecting flight with a stopover in cities like Shenzhen, Xiamen, or Guangzhou.

• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: Baggage allowance varies by airline and fare class. Full-service carriers like Malaysia Airlines typically offer 20-30kg checked baggage, while budget airlines like AirAsia may require additional payment for checked luggage. Always verify the specific allowance when booking through Traveloka.

• Question: What are the earliest and latest flights from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: The earliest flight departs Shanghai Pudong at 12:10 AM, arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 5:40 AM. The latest flight leaves at 6:55 PM, landing at 12:55 AM the following day.

• Question: Do I need a visa to travel from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur?

Answer: Chinese citizens require a visa or electronic travel authorization to visit Malaysia. However, many other nationalities can enter Malaysia visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality. Always check the latest visa requirements before traveling.

Other Ways to Travel From Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur

While flying is the most practical option for traveling between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur due to the geographical separation by the South China Sea, here are some alternative multi-modal transport options for adventurous travelers:

• Train and Ferry Combination

- Route: Shanghai → Guangzhou (by high-speed train, 7-8 hours) → Hong Kong (by train, 2 hours) → Ferry to various ports in Southeast Asia → Land transportation to Kuala Lumpur

- Total Duration: 5-7 days depending on connections and waiting times

- Considerations: Multiple border crossings and transportation changes required

• Overland Journey via Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand

- Route: Shanghai → Southern China (by train) → Vietnam → Cambodia → Thailand → Malaysia → Kuala Lumpur

- Total Duration: 10-14 days minimum

- Considerations: Requires multiple visas and border crossings; best suited for extended travel

• Cruise Ship

- Several cruise lines operate routes that include both Shanghai and ports near Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) as part of longer Southeast Asian itineraries

- Duration: 10-14 days, as part of a larger cruise itinerary

- Considerations: Limited schedules and availability; primarily a vacation option rather than point-to-point transportation

These alternative routes are considerably longer and more complex than the direct 5.5-hour flight, making them suitable only for travelers interested in the journey itself rather than efficient transportation between the two cities.

Explore Kuala Lumpur

Popular Destinations in Kuala Lumpur

• Petronas Twin Towers: These iconic 88-story skyscrapers, once the tallest buildings in the world, feature an observation deck, skybridge, and the upscale Suria KLCC shopping mall at their base. The surrounding KLCC Park offers beautiful green spaces and a choreographed fountain show in the evening.
• Batu Caves: Located just outside the city, this Hindu temple complex features a colossal golden statue of Lord Murugan and 272 colorful steps leading to limestone caves housing Hindu shrines. The site becomes particularly vibrant during the annual Thaipusam festival.
• Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka): This historically significant plaza marks where Malaysian independence was declared in 1957. Surrounding the square are beautiful colonial buildings including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building with its distinctive Moorish architecture and clock tower.
• Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL): This 421-meter communications tower offers panoramic views from its observation deck and revolving restaurant. The surrounding forest reserve, one of the oldest in Malaysia, provides a surprising green oasis in the heart of the city.
• Central Market (Pasar Seni): A vibrant arts and crafts center housed in a 1930s Art Deco building, offering traditional Malaysian handicrafts, souvenirs, and local cuisine. The nearby Kasturi Walk is an open-air market with additional shopping options and street performances.

Popular Cuisine in Kuala Lumpur

• Nasi Lemak: Considered Malaysia's national dish, this fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk is typically served with sambal (spicy sauce), fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices, and a boiled egg. For a complete experience, try it with rendang (slow-cooked spiced meat) or fried chicken.
• Satay: Skewers of marinated meat (typically chicken, beef, or lamb) grilled over charcoal and served with a rich peanut sauce, cucumbers, onions, and rice cakes (ketupat). The satay at Jalan Alor Night Food Court is particularly renowned.
• Char Kway Teow: This stir-fried flat rice noodle dish exemplifies Malaysia's Chinese culinary influence. Prepared with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives in a mix of soy sauce and chili, it's a must-try street food experience.
• Roti Canai: A flaky, flatbread with Indian origins, typically served with dal (lentil curry) or other curry dishes. The theatrical preparation, involving skillful dough-stretching techniques, is often visible at mamak stalls throughout the city.
• Durian: Known as the "king of fruits," this distinctive and divisive fruit has a strong odor but creamy, sweet flesh that many consider a delicacy. Kuala Lumpur offers numerous opportunities to try fresh durian or durian-flavored desserts like ice cream, puffs, and pancakes.

Kuala Lumpur's diverse culinary scene reflects its multicultural heritage, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international influences creating a food paradise for travelers. From high-end restaurants to vibrant street food markets like Jalan Alor and Hutong Lot 10, the city offers endless gastronomic adventures at all price points.

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, the journey from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur opens the door to experiencing Malaysia's dynamic capital city with its blend of modern architecture, colonial heritage, and diverse cultural influences. Book your flight with Traveloka today to begin your Malaysian adventure!