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Malaysia ETS Train Guide: 19 Things To Do Along The JB To KL Route, From Camping To Getting A Massage

Chandelle Cheong — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 07:41:52 +0000

Malaysia ETS train guide

With the ETS train from JB to KL making commuting all the more convenient, Singaporeans can now take their day trips further by exploring other stops along the service line.

If you’re looking for last-minute June holiday activities or just itching for a spontaneous getaway, we have narrowed down a list of the most exciting things to do near some stops along the JB to KL ETS route.

What is the JB to KL ETS?

The Electric Train Service (ETS) is operated by KTMB, and is Malaysia’s fastest metre-gauge intercity train. One of its most popular stretches connects JB to KL Sentral in under 5 hours, with 16 stops along the way – making it a convenient way to hop between cities, towns, and lesser-known gems in between.

Here’s a quick look at the JB to KL train timings:

Train	Departure	Arrival	Duration
Gold-9442	7.35am	12.11pm	4 hours 36 minutes
Platinum-9542	8.40am	1pm	4 hours 20 minutes
Platinum-9528	12.45am	5.05pm	4 hours 20 minutes
Platinum-9532	4.20pm	8.40pm	4 hours 20 minutes
Platinum-9536	8.30pm	12.50pm	4 hours 20 minutes

Ticket prices start from RM63 (~S$20.02) for a 1-way ticket on Gold trains, and from RM82 (~S$26.06) on Platinum trains.

Kulai

North of Johor Bahru is the charming town of Kulai, which offers a perfect escape from the city with its hiking trails and gardens. You can look forward to photo spots at the Purple Bamboo Village or panoramic views when hiking the Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest.

Previously a 40-minute ride via the KTM Intercity from JB to Kulai, the town is now approximately a 16-minute train ride from JB via the ETS trains. We’ve also curated a 2D1N Kulai itinerary for your next weekend trip.

1. Cafe Jufei

Cosy cafe with hand-drip coffee

Begin your journey in Kulai with breakfast at Cafe Jufei. A 9-minute walk from Kulai Train Station, this cosy spot feels like stepping back into your grandparents’ home, complete with vintage furniture and Hong Kong film memorabilia.

Known for their coffee brewed with a rotation of specialty beans, caffeine lovers can look forward to hand-drip coffee with beans from Ethiopia, Honduras, and more. The cafe also sells a variety of small bites such as a 6” Pizza (RM15, ~S$4.81) and Cheesecake (RM12, ~S$3.85).

Cafe Jufei 聚啡馆

2. Purple Bamboo Garden

Bamboo garden with photo spots

Now that your tummy has been filled, head down to Putuo Village for a nature escape. The journey is a 35-minute bus ride via P403 from Terminal Bas Kulai, or a 15-minute drive if you decide to book a Grab ride.

Image credit: Putuo Village

Begin with a walk through the Purple Bamboo Garden, with its picturesque environment and occasional photo props making it perfect for both a leisurely stroll and Instagrammable photos.

Do note that there is an entry fee to the bamboo village, with the funds being used for bamboo conservation. The fees are priced at RM10 (~S$3.21) per adult, and RM5 (~S$1.60) for kids and seniors.

Signature Bamboo Charcoal Chocolate Ice Cream.

There is even a hut in the village that sells snacks, like Earl Grey Milk Tea ice cream (RM10, ~S$3.21) to help you beat the heat. The flavours are constantly changing, with some hits including the Classic Japanese Matcha Ice Cream and the Signature Bamboo Charcoal Chocolate Ice Cream.

Image credit: Putuo Village

There are savoury bites like the Charcoal-grilled Authentic Bamboo Tube Sticky Rice (RM10.90, ~S$3.50) too. Of course, these items are served in actual bamboo tubes, adding to the vibes.

紫竹谷 Purple Bamboo Garden

3. Bodhi Sanctuary

Cultural escape from the city

Gate of Culture.
Image credit: Putuo Village

The Bodhi Sanctuary, or Guanyin Prayer Hall, is home to Southeast Asia’s largest indoor statue of Cundi Bodhisattva. According to Buddhist legend, the bamboo forest was the home of Guanyin Bodhisattva, which makes the entire Putuo Village and the bamboo garden a preservation of Buddhist culture.

With its serene atmosphere and intricately designed architecture, the Bodhi Sanctuary is great for both worshippers and visitors looking for a tranquil escape from the city.

Entry to the sanctuary is free, but if you’re looking to offer a prayer, a pack of joss sticks will set you back RM10 (~S$3.21).

The sanctuary also houses a Wishing Tree that’s decked out in red ribbons. Originally, the wishes were written on burnt joss paper and tied to a mandarin orange before being tossed onto the tree’s branches. This has now evolved to just penning down your wish on a red ribbon before tossing or tying it up on the branches, with the legend being that your wish will come true if it lands on the tree.

Be it praying for the studies of your child or general fortune, you can make a small donation to receive some red ribbons and try your luck.

You’ll also find prayer wheels lining the walkway at the Prayer Wheel Corridor. Featuring a mantra written on the outside, the spinning of the wheels is meant to have the same effect as orally reciting the prayers. Tradition is to spin the wheel clockwise gently, as the direction in which the mantras are written follows the movement of the sun across the sky, while keeping in mind the values of compassion.

Great Compassion Water.
Image credit: Putuo Village

For those looking to immerse themselves further in tradition, look out for the Great Compassion Water structure, where you can find blessed mountain spring water by the Dharma Master who has chanted the Great Compassion Mantra 888 times.

Putuo Village

4. Fat Bamboo Cafe

Garden view & menu with vegetarian options

Image credit: Putuo Village

Nestled within the Bodhi Sanctuary is the Fat Bamboo Cafe, where you can grab a bite and relax while looking out at the lush greenery.

Snack on desserts like the Matcha Mousse Cake (RM13.90 ~S$4.46) or the Peach Danish (RM8.90, ~S$2.86). If you’re looking to quench your thirst after your walk, the cafe also offers drinks such as Sweet Orange Rose Bamboo Tea (RM9.90, ~S$3.18) and Longan Jujube Bamboo Tea (RM9.90, ~S$3.18).

And if you’re looking for a meat-free lunch option, you’ll be glad to know that the cafe serves a selection of vegetarian dishes.

Fat Bamboo Cafe

5. Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

Waterfall hidden within the forest

Image credit: Kai Gan via Wikimedia Commons

While we already have the MacRitchie Treetop Walk and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve trails in Singapore, you may want to check out the Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest while you’re in Kulai. Getting to the trailhead requires a 25-minute drive from Kulai Train Station; you can hail a taxi or simply book a Grab ride.

At 654m above sea level, Gunung Pulai may be taller than the Bukit Timah Hill, but the hike up is still pretty beginner-friendly. That said, you might want to wear a pair of shoes with better grip during the monsoon season.

Expect to see lots of native fauna and flora – some hikers have even spotted pitcher plants from the Nepenthes Rafflesiana species as well as the rare Raffles Banded Langur.

Image credit: Dinesh Mathavan

You’ll also come across the Gunung Pulai Waterfall along your hike, where you can take a breather and enjoy the refreshing mist and cooler temperatures.

There are 2 hiking trails to choose from: the main road trail and the jungle trail. Do note that non-Malaysians will have to pay RM30 (~S$9.63) for a permit to hike the jungle trail while the main road trail is free.

Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

Kluang

If you enjoy the charms of a slow town, nature, and local eats, Kluang is the spot for you. Just under 1 hour via the ETS from JB, here’s what you can look forward to in Kluang, from farm stays to charcoal-roasted kopi.

6. Talula Hill Farm Resort

Take a break from the city

Image credit: @xxw.jpeg via Instagram

A 21-minute drive from Kluang Train Station brings you to the Talula Hill Farm Resort. Nestled in between rolling hills, the resort provides an escape into nature. Their loft cabins also overlook the garden terraces and animals, so you’ll get to wake up not just in nature, but to nature.

Rooms begin at RM384 (~S$123.23) for their Bunk Cabins and RM784 (~S$251.59) for their Loft Cabins.

Image credit: @xxw.jpeg via Instagram

Activities here include guided tours of the resort, where you’ll get to visit the vegetable garden and even taste some of the produce, as well as feed the farm animals. Fishing lovers can also fish at the resort’s ponds, but do note that they operate on a catch-and-release system.

The resort also has a pickleball court, which costs RM70 (~S$22.46) to rent by the hour. For those who are looking for a more relaxed day in, the resort’s reading room offers a variety of board games like Rummikub and Cluedo.

Image credit: Talula Hill Farm Resort

Complimentary on-the-go breakfast is provided daily and delivered to your room every morning. With their farm-to-table concept, expect dishes made with homegrown produce and local ingredients.

Pro tip: For a true slow living experience, bring your breakfast out for a picnic as you take in the fresh air.

Make a reservation for Talula Hill Farm Resort.

Talula Hill Farm Resort Kluang

7. Gunung Lambak

Test your stamina in this vertical jungle

Image credit: AllTrails

Adventure seekers, the Gunung Lambak trail might be the one for you. The trailhead is 14 minutes by car or a 33-minute ride on board bus BmkKL002 from Terminal Kluang.

Image credit: Afiq Sazwan Ab Aziz via Wikiloc

Don’t let its mere height of 510m fool you; the trail has a steep vertical jungle section that puts your climbing abilities to the test. If you find it difficult to manoeuvre around the rocks and thick protruding roots, there are assist ropes at the side to haul yourself up. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit, which has a simple rest shelter for you to catch a break before your descent.

Gunung Lambak

8. Kluang Coffee Powder Factory

Charcoal-roasted kopi from 1938

Image adapted from: @jackson_yew & @nyera_ewears_veve via Instagram

Most might flock to the Original Kluang Rail Coffee, the “oldest railway kopitiam” in the Malaysia Book of Records, but the Kluang Coffee Powder Factory is equally worth a stop. It’s located just a 9-minute taxi ride from Kluang Train Station, and this old-school coffee shop has been serving cups of kopi since 1938. You’ll even get to see part of the process at the factory.

Besides being able to enjoy a free taste test of their 3-in-1 packet coffee, you’ll also find your usual coffeeshop drinks like Kopi (from RM2.90, ~S$0.93) alongside a wide selection of mains like Laksa Johor (RM7, ~S$2.24 ) and Nasi Lemak Bungkus (RM1.70, ~S$0.54).

There is also a giant coffee cup outside the factory, so you can snap a photo for memory. And if you’re looking to bring home a taste of the charcoal-roasted kopi, there is a selection of packet coffee available for purchase.

Kluang Coffee Powder Factory Sdn Bhd

Labis

Labis is located 1.5 hours away from JB via the ETS, and it’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and stargazing spots. Nature lovers can look forward to hot springs and the nearby Endau Rompin forest areas, which are ideal for getaways amidst nature.

9. Sunrise Farm

Pitch your own tent & sleep under the stars

Image credit: Sunrise Farm

Another farm stay location to check out is the Sunrise Farm. Featuring orchards, vegetable gardens, and picturesque landscapes, the farm offers a true nature stay with its cosy rooms and campsite options, where you’ll get to pitch your own tent.

To get to the farm, your quickest option will be to hitch a taxi for a 7-minute drive from Labis Train Station. Alternatively, you can hop on bus YH27 at the RJ Cafe Labis bus stop for a 51-minute ride.

Image credit: Sunrise Farm

The farm also offers a 2-hour farm tour, where you’ll get to explore the variety of fruits grown at the orchard, such as durian, guava, jackfruit, and mangosteen, as well as have a taste of the fresh fruit. There’s even the chance to get up close to the farm animals and the farm’s beehives, where you’ll also get a taste of their wild honey.

Another highlight is getting to stargaze. For a true outdoor experience, bring your own tent or rent one from the farm and sleep under the stars.

Reserve a spot or inquire about pricing at Sunrise Farm.

Labis Sunrise Farm

10. Taka Melor Eco Forest

Relax by the waterfall & enjoy a natural foot spa

Image credit: ecah aziz via Google Maps

Another spot for hiking lovers to check out is the Taka Melor Eco Forest. A short 21-minute taxi ride from Labis Train Station, the eco forest offers beautiful views and features a 4.5m waterfall.

If you’re game for a free foot spa, visitors have reported that you can head towards the left side of the waterfall, dip your feet and let the little fish nibble away your dead skin.

Entry to the forest costs RM15 (~S$4.81) per pax, with free entry for children under 12 years old.

Taka Melor Eco Forest

Segamat

Durian lovers can consider hopping off the ETS at Segamat, a town 1.5 hours away from JB. Known as the Durian Capital of Johor, visitors flock to this town during durian peak season. But the king of fruits aside, the town is also home to a historical bridge that has been around for over 100 years.

11. Segamat Old Iron Railway Bridge

Historical bridge that went through WWII

Image adapted from: Kang Wei Lim via Google Maps

This 100+ year old iron truss bridge was built in 1909 during Malaysia’s colonial era railway period, and is located just 5 minutes away from Segamat Train Station on foot. The Segamat Old Iron Railway Bridge spans the Segamat River, offering scenic views of muddy monsoon swells and a step back in time, with the bridge retaining its original structure.

During WWII, the bridge was nicknamed Jambatan Putus (Broken Bridge) after Japanese forces had destroyed sections of it to delay the advances of the Allied troops. Today, only a short stretch of the railway has been retained for heritage purposes. Beyond its historical significance, it’s also become a popular photo spot, with plenty of visitors – locals included – stopping by to snap a few Instagram-worthy shots.

Segamat old iron railway bridge

12. Durian Factory

Pick your own durians & fresh fruits

Image credit: @thedurianfactory via Instagram

If you love the creamy fruit that has been described by some to have a pungent smell, make sure to add The Durian Factory to your itinerary.

Besides offering favourites like the Musang King and D101, the farm also hosts a durian tasting tour during the durian season from June to September. You’ll get to pick your own AA durians as well as other fresh fruits like mangosteen and lime during the experience.

Enquire about The Durian Factory farm tours.

13. Secourra Spa

Relax at this women-only spa

Image credit: Adilah Awalluddin via Google Maps

Treat yourself to a spa session at Secourra Spa, a women-only spa just 6 minutes away from Labis Train Station by taxi. Aside from personalised wellness and beauty treatments, the spa also offers massages, including the popular Foot Reflexology (RM55, ~S$17.65).

Each session concludes with a pot of the spa’s signature hot honey ginger tea. This warm beverage helps to flush out toxins and improve blood circulation while hydrating your body.

Secourra Spa

Tampin

You might have visited Malacca, but have you been to its equally charming neighbour, Tampin? Just 2.5 hours from JB via the ETS, and you’ll get to enjoy an animal safari, one of Malaysia’s biggest water parks, and a hike for panoramic views.

14. Gunung Datuk Recreational Forest

Challenge yourself with this uphill hike

Image credit: Elven Kim via Google Maps

If you’re up for a climb, check out the Gunung Datuk Recreational Forest, which is popular amongst hikers for the challenging climb and rewarding views. To get to the trailhead, simply hail a cab or book a Grab from Pulau Sebang/Tampin Railway Station for a quick 21-minute ride to the hiking spot.

From the trailhead, hikers can expect to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the peak of Gunung Datuk. From there, you can continue on to Gunung Gagak and Gunung Rembau. The hike up may be a little tough for beginners, but visitors have reported ascending with no issues with their kids.

Do note that the trail is very rocky, so make sure to wear proper hiking shoes.

Gunung Datuk Recreational Forest

15. A’Famosa Safari Wonderland

Interactive animal showcases

Image credit: Naz here via Google Maps

A highlight to check out in Tampin is the A’Famosa Safari Wonderland, where you’ll get to see a variety of animals like monkeys and flamingos up close. Hop on a cab from Tampin Train Station for a 14-minute drive to begin your adventure.

Here, you’ll get to feed the elephants by hand and watch them swim in water, making for a fun family trip that is sure to be a hit with your kids.

Crocodile Kingdom.
Image credit: A’Famosa Safari Wonderland

A highlight is the Crocodile Kingdom, where you’ll get face-to-face with the wetland predators and even walk under their tummies at the Crocodile Tunnel, a glass-enclosed habitat.

Look forward to a range of animal presentations featuring parrots and cockatoos, as well as a multi-animal show with a cast of sun bear, buffalo, pig-tailed macaque, otter, cats, and dogs.

Animal presentation	Time
Elephant Akuatik	11.10am
In Nature Elephant	10.45am & 4.30pm
Animal Fantasy	11.45am & 3.00pm
Avian Stars	12.45pm & 3.45pm
Wild Wild West Show	2.20pm

As the park can get quite crowded, book your tickets online and scan for entry with your QR code to skip the long lines outside.

Book tickets for A’Famosa Safari Wonderland.

A’Famosa Safari Wonderland

16. Tampin Water Park

Family-friendly waterpark for a fun day out

Image adapted from: Roselan Zaman via Google Maps

With tickets costing RM15 (~S$4.81) for adults and RM10 (~S$3.21) for children, Tampin Water Park is one of the cheapest water parks in Malaysia. Hop on bus N60A at the Bank Islam bus stop for a 44-minute ride or simply hail a taxi for a 10-minute drive down to the water park, where a splashing good time awaits.

There are 4 different pool areas catering to different age groups and designed with varying depths, so even toddlers can join in the fun at the kiddy zone with mini slides. For those looking to just relax, the park also has picnic areas with shade for you to take a break while keeping an eye on your children.

Tampin Water Park

17. Gadek Hot Springs

Family-friendly hot spring

Image credit: Noriehan Samat via Google Maps

Recently renovated in 2025, the Gadek Hot Springs is great for soaking on a chilly night. To get to the hot springs, hop on bus M20 at Stesen Keretapi Pulau Sebang for a 29-minute ride or simply hail a taxi for a 12-minute drive from Tampin Train Station.

The facility features a series of pools with heated water, and there are even individual tubs for you to soak in. If your kids are tired of just relaxing in the heated pools, there is even a children’s pool with slides for them to play in.

When the sun sets is when the hot spring really gets moving – there is a rotation of food stalls for you to grab a bite at. Take note that food is not permitted in the pools themselves, but you can return after to relax under the stars.

KOMPLEKS AIR PANAS GADEK

Kajang

If there is 1 thing Kajang does best, it’s satay. The ETS ride to Kajang from JB is about 3 hours and 40 minutes, but a worthy wait to taste one of Selangor’s heritage dishes, the Sate Kajang. The town also has a water theme park with over 10 different water rides, so your kids have something to look forward to if they aren’t full-fledged foodies yet.

18. Sate Kajang Hj Samuri

One of Malaysia’s best satays

Image adapted from: Zach sws via Google Maps

For a juicy satay with a good char, check out Sate Kajang Hj Samuri. Their chunky chicken, beef, and lamb satays are served with their signature rich and nutty peanut sauce that packs a subtle kick of sambal. It’s no wonder many consider it one of the best satay joints in Malaysia.

The satay is so good that it’s got satay connoisseurs driving down to Kajang just for a taste. Another favourite from the store is their spring rolls, which are fried popiah with satay paste.

Ordering may take a while, given the crowd, but if you endure the wait, you’ll be rewarded with good Kajang satay.

Getting to the satay joint is a quick 10-minute drive by cab, or you can board buses T451 and T464 from the Taman Hijau bus stop for a 14-minute bus ride.

Sate Kajang HJ Samuri

19. Bangi Wonderland Water Theme Park

Malaysia’s only water cannon ride

Image credit: Bangi Wonderland Water Theme Park

The Bangi Wonderland Water Theme Park is another one to add to your list for adventures. Featuring 14 thrilling water rides alongside a good variety of water slides, wave pools, and kiddy pools, the water park has something for everyone.

The park is also home to Malaysia’s only water cannon ride. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like – sit in a cannon, push a button, and get fired out by a blast of water to go flying through the air and into a giant pool.

Do note that certain slides require a tube rental, which costs RM10 (~S$3.21).

Image credit: Annie Lum via Google Maps

When your tummy starts rumbling, head to the Snack Cabin for familiar favourites like Fishball sticks (RM4, ~S$1.28) and Samosas (RM5, ~S$1.60).

Getting to the waterpark is a little tricky – it’s a 12-minute train ride via the Seremban Line towards Pulau Sebang from Kajang Station and a 22-minute walk to the park. We recommend hailing a taxi for a 35-minute drive down from Kajang Station; it might take roughly the same time to get there, but at least you won’t have to walk.

Bangi Wonderland

Places to explore along the ETS journey from JB to KL

If you’re tired of the usual haunts in JB or KL, or simply looking to explore a new city, these cities along the ETS route are worth checking out.

For more things to do in Malaysia:

Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local, Sunrise Farm, AllTrails

The post Malaysia ETS Train Guide: 19 Things To Do Along The JB To KL Route, From Camping To Getting A Massage appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

2D1N Kulai Itinerary For A Healing Trip Just 20 Minutes From JB

Gwyn Lim — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:10:33 +0000

Things to do in Kulai, Johor

We’re halfway through the year, which is exactly around the time that most of us start to feel the burnout from work and school set in. TLDR; we’re craving a relaxing weekend getaway, but places like Bali and Phuket are a little too far for a short trip, and we’ve already explored JB to death.

If you’re facing the same dilemma as us, here’s an alternative getaway idea for you. Instead of visiting JB for the thousandth time, try out this 2D1N Kulai itinerary instead. This lesser-known town is just ~20 minutes away from JB by train, and it’s got a bunch of relaxing activities to help you unwind.

– Day 1 –

6.45am – Leave Singapore

6.45am may seem a little too early to set off for Johor, but it’s necessary if you plan on getting to Kulai by train, and want to max out your time there.

For context, taking the KTM train to Kulai from JB is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get there, as tickets start from just RM8 (~S$2.58)/pax, and travel time ranges from 18 to 39 minutes, depending on which train you take. Platinum trains are quicker, taking roughly 18 to 22 minutes, while Express trains take 39 minutes.

Screenshot from: KITS

As reflected on the KITS site, up to 9 trains service Kulai daily, though this number varies depending on the date you’re booking tickets for. The earliest departure from JB Sentral is at 7.35am, while the latest you can head down is 9.05pm.

At the time we visited, we booked tickets for an 8.30am train. As such, we decided to depart Singapore at 6.45am in order to reach the JB checkpoint by 7.30am. We got to JB by public bus, which cost us just S$1.85, but if you’re looking for a quicker way to cross the border, there’s always the option of taking the 5-minute KTM train ride from Woodlands Checkpoint to JB Sentral for RM15.75 (~S$5.08).

*At the time of writing, train schedules have changed and there is no longer an 8.30am train to Kulai. The closest alternative would be the 8.40am train. We have tweaked the itinerary timings to accommodate the latest schedule.

8.25am – Board the KTM train to Kulai

Once you’ve arrived at JB Sentral, you’ll find 2 gates for the KTM train – Gate A, for trains returning to Singapore, and Gate B, for ETS and intercity trains.

Boarding begins roughly 15 minutes before the train departs, so if you’re early like we were, feel free to plonk your bags down at the seating area by the gates.

The interior of the KTM train to Kulai.

P.S. – We recommend booking train tickets in advance via the KITS ticketing website, but if you need to make any last-minute purchases, you can still try for seats via the ticketing counters and self-service kiosks near the boarding gates.

10am – Drop off luggage at Durian Guesthouse

If you take the 8.40am train down to Kulai, you’ll arrive by roughly 9am. We’re happy to report that the ride was smooth and quiet enough for us to clock in some shut-eye time, so much so that we were ready to properly kickstart our day by the time we reached.

Nonetheless, our first order of business was to rid ourselves of our luggage. We headed to our Airbnb – Durian Guesthouse – to put our bags down. The kampung-style accom usually accommodates check-ins from 3pm onwards, but the owners were kind enough to let us drop off our barang barang first, so that we could begin our day untethered.

BTW, we 100% recommend this Airbnb to you if you’re a nature lover, or someone looking for a zen escape from city life. The cosy homestay serves major kampung vibes, with rustic old-school furniture indoors, and a mini farm outdoors with homegrown crops like fruits and vegetables.

We opted to stay in a Triple Room for 3 (from S$111/night), which consisted of a queen-sized bed for 2, and a single bunk bed. Depending on your travel group size, you can choose between 2 other room options as well – a Double Room for 2 from S$80/night, or a Family Room for 6 from S$153/night.

Durian Guesthouse 流連宿

11.30am – Brunch at Cafe Jufei

The first stop on our itinerary, Cafe Jufei, ended up being one of our favourite takeaways from the entire trip. The homey retro-themed cafe is located right in Kulai’s town centre; just 2 minutes away from the KTM station, and a quick 10-minute stroll from our guesthouse.

Don’t mind us saying this, but this cafe’s a real “hidden gem”. Located a flight of stairs up from a rather obscure entrance, Cafe Jufei has all the feels of an 80s Taiwanese film, furnished with vintage decor like cassette tapes and old film cameras.

It’s also the perfect spot to get your caffeine fix for the day, as the cafe is particularly known for its good coffee. The owner brews quality cuppas with seasonal blends of coffee beans, and at the time we went, we got to try his Single Origin White coffee (RM16, ~S$5.16) made with Ethiopian beans.

Don’t forget to fuel up on the homemade pastries and bites sold here too. We enjoyed the Original Waffle (RM8, ~S$2.58), 6” Pizza (RM15, ~S$4.84), and Cheesecake (RM12, ~S$3.87).

FYI, the cafe has board games and toys to keep both kids and adults entertained, so you can set aside more time to spend here if you enjoy chill cafe dates.

Cafe Jufei 聚啡馆.

2pm – Putuo Village

After stuffing our tummies at Cafe Jufei, we set out to visit Putuo Village, a Buddhist sanctuary with a temple, bamboo forest, and cafe.

You’ll want to set aside a couple of hours to spend in the village. The zen vibes here are peak, and we found ourselves wanting to take our time to tour the entire place.

We first visited Bodhi Sanctuary, which has some of the most intricate architecture here. Outside the temple, we were super impressed by this 12m-long dragon statue that we’re told is made entirely of bamboo.

Then, for stunning photo-ops, we headed over to the bamboo forest, which has a bunch of aesthetic installations like giant inflatable hands symbolising romance and wealth, and golden angel wings to strike a pose in front of.

Do also stop by Fat Bamboo Cafe before you leave. This quiet bamboo-themed cafe is the perfect place to “blow some aircon” after being out in the sun, and it’s got refreshing drinks like Honey Chrysanthemum Bamboo Tea (RM9.90, ~S$3.19) and Lychee Green Tea( RM10.90, ~S$3.51) to help quench your thirst.

Putuo Village

5.30pm – Dinner

There’s nothing quite like a comforting dinner after a long day of travelling, and by 5pm, we were ready to recharge over a hearty meal. Whether you’re craving local food or feel like indulging in yummy western grub, there’s no shortage of tasty food options around Kulai.

Image credit: MOHAMMAD ADAM SYAHID BIN ABU BAKAR via Google Maps

For a mix of local and fusion dishes, check out P – Loko, a cosy cafe that serves everything from local faves like nasi lemak to Western mains like chicken chop.

Image credit: Marnisa Omar via Google Maps

Alternatively, there’s also the popular Der’ Cabin Bistro Kulai, an al fresco dining spot serving up classic Western dishes.

– Day 2 –

9am – Breakfast

One of our favourite things about Durian Guesthouse is the fact that the owners whip up a lovely breakfast for guests every morning. While nothing too over-the-top, our home-cooked meal made us nostalgic for our grandma’s cooking.

On the morning of our stay, we were served tasty beehoon with sambal on the side, plus green bean soup and papaya for dessert.

10.30am – Hua Guo Shan Temple

Our first stop of the day was Hua Guo Shan Temple, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the Monkey King, Sun Wukong. It very fittingly houses a bunch of free-roaming monkeys, plus other reared animals like fish and tortoises.

The decades-old temple is also famous for its unique architecture, which includes an intricately carved hill with statues of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals. The 15-minute climb up is relatively easy, and if you trek all the way to the top, you’ll see a statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva sitting at its peak.

If you want some extra luck, there are also shower stalls near the tortoise pond downstairs, where visitors can wash themselves with blessed water.

This mini stand sells herbal pudding outside the temple.

Those who need a little pick-me-up to brave the heat can also stop for sweet treats before leaving. On our way out, we spotted a food court and dessert stand by the temple’s entrance, where you’ll be able to purchase snacks like pudding and ice cream.

古来花果山 Hua Guo Shan Temple

11.30am – Rider’s Resort

This next stop on our itinerary is a must-visit for horse lovers. Just a 6-minute car ride from Hua Guo Shan Temple, Riders Resort is a gorgeous colonial mansion with activities like horse riding and feeding.

We paid RM5 (~S$1.61) for a packet of carrots to go horse feeding, and by the time we left, we were proud to say that we’d managed to get acquainted with each steed on a first-name basis.

Image credit: Riders Resort

Those feeling more adventurous can also sign up for horse riding lessons from RM341 (~S$109.94)/pax. Don’t worry about needing any prior experience for this – anyone can attend classes, but be sure to book your slot at least 3 days in advance.

Before you leave, check out the resort’s cafe for lunch. The cosy eatery serves a mix of local and international dishes, so you’ll get to take your pick between western mains like Grilled Steak (RM68, ~S$21.92), or local faves like Beef Rendang (RM26, ~S$8.38).

Riders Resort

2pm – Kelapa Sawit Wall Art

Insta baddies, this artsy alley will definitely be up yours. Kelapa Sawit Wall Art is lined with seriously cool murals that’ll make for the perfect backdrop for your “Kulai Dump” post on IG.

Here, we posed next to some of our favourite animated characters like Totoro, Sailor Moon, and Pikachu, and spotted a tonne of cool 3D works by talented local artists.

P.S. – There are 2 lanes to walk down, so be sure to cover both before you head off. The street is also littered with aesthetic cafes all around, so you’ll be able to cool off with a drink mid-walk.

Kelapa Sawit Wall Art

3.30pm – IOI Mall

For our final stop in Kulai, we decided to visit the newly revamped IOI Mall. While it isn’t the biggest and fanciest shopping mall out there, you’ll still be able to snag a bunch of good shopping deals here.

For groceries, there’s Target Supermarket – not to be confused with the American Target – that stocks all the affordable supermarket items you’ll want to bring back to SG.

We also stopped by 2 of our favourite Malaysian value stores, Ninso and MR.DIY, and had a hella good time bargain hunting for their cheapest deals on cutesy knick-knacks and household items.

If you’ve got kiddos, we recommend catching a movie at GSC. This cool theatre has a special Play+ hall with a playground, ball pit, and comfy sofas for little ones to enjoy as you guys bond over a family-friendly flick.

And, if you’re feeling peckish before making your way back to the checkpoint, grab some snacks for the road at IOI Mall’s A&W and Starbucks drive-thrus.

IOI Mall Kulai

5.30pm – Head back to Singapore

After 2 jam-packed days, we were ready to rest our sore limbs and make our way back to Singapore. A taxi ride from IOI Mall to JB Sentral will cost you around RM36 (~S$11.61), which, in our opinion, is a worthy expenditure after 2 long days of travelling.

But if you want to save some money, you can opt to take the KTM train from Kulai to JB Sentral for just RM7 (~S$2.26). There are up to 9 trains heading back, but if you’re heading back in the evening like us, we suggest hopping on the 7.19pm train.

Once you arrive at JB Sentral, getting back to SG is easy-peasy. We decided to take the RM2 (~S$0.61) Causeway Link bus back to Woodlands Checkpoint, and were back in our beds nua-ing in no time.

How to get around Kulai

Full disclosure: Kulai is a tad harder to get around than JB, especially if you’re planning to travel further out to places like Putuo Village. For the smoothest travel experience, we recommend getting a private hire prior to your trip. You can book drivers via private hire Facebook or WhatsApp groups, or via car booking websites.

We opted to hire a driver for the 2nd day of our Kulai trip, and our full day itinerary set us back a reasonable RM350 (~S$112.84).

Alternatively, you can stick to using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Ryde to get around. In our experience, the waiting time for each booking is generally longer than in JB, but you should still have no issues getting from one destination to another.

Explore Kulai on your next Johor trip

If you’re tired of always ending up in JB for your weekend getaways, try venturing out to Kulai on your next trip across the border. It’s got an entirely different vibe from the perpetually crowded city of JB, whilst still being near enough to SG to justify a quick trip.

For a more in-depth guide of things to do in Kulai, read:

Photography by Cassia Leong. Originally published on 17th June 2025. Last updated on 26th May 2026 by Gwyn Lim.

The post 2D1N Kulai Itinerary For A Healing Trip Just 20 Minutes From JB appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We Took Grab’s New Cross-Border Taxi From JB To SG — Here’s What The Trip Was Actually Like

Wei Yin — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 02:00:47 +0000

Grab’s cross-border taxis to JB

For the longest time, Singaporeans who wanted to enter JB had a few choices: brave the Causeway Link bus queues, camp for KTM Shuttle Tebrau tickets, or take a gamble on those illegal Singapore-JB private hires. Thankfully, other than the upcoming RTS Link, there’s finally another legit option with greater comfort and convenience.

There’s now a Cross-Border Ride-Hail Service by Grab, which means you can hop on legal car rides to JB. Here’s how our trip went when we booked a cross-border taxi to return back to the Little Red Dot after a long day at our neighbour’s, plus prices and locations.

What is Grab’s cross-border taxi service?

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The ride-hailing platform is the first to get the Cross-Border Ride-Hail Service Operator Licence under the enhanced Cross-Border Taxi Scheme, which allows bookings to be made via the Grab app (App Store | Google Play).

Identify licensed vehicles by looking out for the “cross-border taxi” decal.
Image credit: Grab

Dubbed Cross-Border SG-JB (Beta), the service lets you book a ride from wherever you are in Singapore to your destination in selected areas across the Causeway. This service started rolling out on 4th May 2026, and as of 3rd June 2026, over 1,000 cross border Grab taxi rides have been completed, including one from the TSL team!

What are the pick-up & drop-off locations?

Travelling from Singapore

Visiting the IG-worthy Putuo Village in Kulai will now be easier and quicker.

You’re not restricted to taxi stands or designated points for pick-ups – Grab’s cross-border taxis can pick you up from anywhere in Singapore, including right outside your home. Drop-offs are also pretty flexible – you can be sent directly to your destination within Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai, and Senai.

Travelling from Malaysia

But take note that the rules flip once you’re in Malaysia. Currently, Singapore-registered taxis, including the Grab cross-border taxis, can only pick up passengers from a few designated locations for now:

Toppen Shopping Centre
Mid Valley Southkey
Angsana Johor Bahru Mall
Larkin Sentral

So if you’re coming back from JB, you’ll need to head to one of these spots to catch your ride back – drop-off can be anywhere in Singapore.

We booked our trip at 8.45am in the morning, for a cab to pick us up at 9pm at Toppen Shopping Centre, and got confirmation of our booking about 2 hours later. And off we were on our JB escapade, making stops at the new SKS City Mall, Hutan Bandar Park, and the Chinchilla Trading animal cafe.

The pick-up spot at Toppen Shopping Centre.

The driver arrived on time; we ran into some trouble locating the cab, but eventually managed to get everything sorted out through a short call with him via the Grab app. We officially got into the cab at 9.11pm, which was a little close to the strict grace period of 15 minutes for our liking. Thankfully, the rest of the ride home – or rather, to our office – was smooth sailing.

Traffic conditions were good on Malaysia’s side of the border; we managed to get cleared at around 9.42pm. We got our passports out once we were nearing the Causeway and handed them to our driver, who settled everything with the customs officers within the car.

Image credit: Khoo Yong Hao

We faced a little bit of a jam while en route to Singapore, but it was nothing too unusual for a Thursday night. As we inched along, we spoke to our driver, Mr. Sulaiman Bin Mohamed Dali, and asked about his experience ferrying passengers across the Causeway. He told us that he’s been doing it ever since the service rolled out on the 4th, and had been booked for a total of 4 trips including ours.

He also added that he prefers taking up cross-border trips to picking and dropping off passengers solely in JB as there was more money to be made.

But, he only managed to complete 2 out of 4 of his trips, due to last-minute cancellations made by customers. Fortunately for him, customers on both trips had to pay in full as they cancelled within an hour of the scheduled pick-up time; a stark reminder for future users of this cross-border service to plan their time wisely.

Traffic eased up once we approached Woodlands Checkpoint, and after clearing another round of checks by ICA officers, we were home sweet home. Before we knew it, at around 10.15pm, we had arrived at our office’s doorstep in Kallang Bahru.

Overall, we feel that although it is super convenient to have a private hire vehicle send you from doorstep to doorstep, it is still quite pricey when compared to the other modes of transport that can get you from Singapore to JB and vice versa.

As such, you can consider booking it when travelling with older folks or young kids, or when you foresee yourself being too knackered to take the public transport back home just like us. Speaking of prices:

How much does a Grab cross-border ride to JB cost?

Image adapted from: LTA via Facebook

Fortunately, there won’t be any surge pricing – Grab’s cross-border taxi fares are fixed at the point of booking. Pricing takes reference from existing cross-border street-hail taxi fares, with factors like travel distance, time of day, and peak periods such as public holidays taken into account when the fare is calculated.

Here’s a quick breakdown of street-hail taxi fares from Singapore to JB – just to give you a rough idea of what you might end up paying:

Singapore	Malaysia	Type of car	Price
Ban San Street Terminal	Larkin Sentral	4-seater	S$80
		6-seater	S$120
		Premium 6-seater	S$180

Fares will be charged in SGD for rides from Singapore to Malaysia. ERP and tolls are already included in your fare, so there’s no need to make additional payments.

However, your final Grab fare might vary slightly depending on where exactly you’re headed or where your pick-up location in Singapore is.

Image adapted from: Grab

This writer here did a quick test booking – from my place in Punggol all the way to Johor Bahru City Square, the fare came up to S$100.50 for the standard car, after an automatic 20% discount was applied.

P.S. All cross-border Grab taxi rides will be 30% off from now till 28th June 2026! You don’t even have to apply a promo code as the discount will be automatically applied.

There are also other vehicle choices available such as Premium for a more comfortable ride, and a 6-seater if you’ve got more people tagging along or bulky luggage.
Image adapted from: Grab

As for our return trip from JB, it cost us RM333.72 (~S$108.04) after the 20% discount was automatically applied. There were 4 of us in the cab; do the math and it works out to roughly S$27/pax, which isn’t too shabby if you compare it to the Grab rates in sunny Singapore.

However, if you’re travelling by yourself or with just 1 other person, taking a cab might be a tad too costly. Instead, take the many cross-border public buses; ones like the Transtar Cross Border bus or even SMRT’s bus no. 950 are way more affordable, with the latter only costing $1.28 from Woodlands Checkpoint to JB Checkpoint.

How to book a Grab cross-border taxi from SG to JB?

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Follow these steps:

Click on the “Transport” tile in your Grab app.
Under “Rides for your every need”, click on “SG>JB (Beta)”.
Key in your pick-up and drop-off locations.
Select your preferred ride.
Choose the pick-up date and time.
Click on “book in advance” to confirm.

Image credit: Grab

Make sure to plan ahead – rides can only be booked in advance, anywhere from 6 hours to 7 days before your trip.

If you’re taking Grab’s cross-border taxi back to Singapore, just repeat the same booking steps in the app and plan in advance as usual. The only difference this time is that your fare will be charged in MYR.

Other important things to note before you book

Passengers get 15 minutes of grace waiting time from the scheduled pick-up time.

You’ll be charged 100% of the fare if you:

Cancel within 1 hour of your scheduled pick-up time after a driver has already been assigned.
Don’t show up for your ride.
Booked the wrong car type (for example, insufficient seats or luggage space for your group).

You can still cancel your booking at no cost, as long as it’s done at least 1 hour before your pick-up time.

If a driver cancels, Grab will keep trying to assign you a driver until 1 hour before your scheduled ride. However, if your assigned driver cancels within that final hour, there won’t be a replacement driver provided. You’ll receive compensation of S$30 or RM100, depending on where your trip starts, via a GrabGift voucher.

And if you somehow make it all the way to the checkpoint only to realise your passport is chilling at home, the driver will end the cross-border trip there, and you’ll still need to pay the full booked fare.

Consider booking Grab’s cross-border taxis for your next JB trip

Whether this becomes your new go-to way of getting into JB depends on what kind of traveller you are. If you’re on a budget, the usual bus and train options will probably still be your best bet. But if convenience matters and you wouldn’t mind paying extra to skip the checkpoint crowd and get dropped straight at your destination, Grab’s cross-border taxi service is an option.

Find out more about Grab’s cross-border taxis

This New Bangkok Hotel Has The Ultimate Me-Time Package, From Breakfast In Bed To Pillow Mists

Michelle P — Fri, 29 May 2026 08:57:12 +0000

voco Bangkok Surawong

Singaporeans love Bangkok, and there’s no question about that. Close to 700,000 Singaporeans visited BKK in just the first 9 months of 2025 – be it for the massages, the food, or the shopping. If you’ve never thought too hard about where to lay your head at night, it’s time to give it that second thought, because we’ve got a new hotel that’ll make sure you’re extra refreshed post-hols.

Enter voco Bangkok Surawong – the latest BKK stay to crave, by IHG Hotels & Resorts, no less.