Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Malaysia’s largest and busiest airport. An architectural marvel set within a vast green space, KLIA Airport is a key hub for Southeast Asia, serving as the home base for Malaysia Airlines. For travelers from India, this Kuala Lumpur Airport guide for 2025 will help you navigate its two main terminals, understand the transit process, and find the best ways to get from KLIA to Kuala Lumpur city center

Navigating the Terminals at Kuala Lumpur Airport

KUL Airport is comprised of two completely separate, large terminals located about 2km apart. It is absolutely crucial to know which terminal your airline uses.

• KLIA Terminal 1 (often just called KLIA): This is the main terminal for full-service airlines. Malaysia Airlines, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and most other full-service international carriers operate from here. This terminal is split into a Main Terminal Building and a Satellite Terminal, connected by a fast Aerotrain.

• KLIA Terminal 2 (formerly known as klia2): This is the massive, purpose-built terminal for low-cost carriers. It is the main global hub for AirAsia. If you are flying AirAsia from India, you will use this terminal.

How to Transfer Between KLIA T1 and T2: The easiest way is to take the KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit train. The journey is just one stop and takes about 3-4 minutes.

The KLIA Jungle Boardwalk

A unique feature inside the Satellite Terminal of KLIA Terminal 1 is the KLIA Jungle Boardwalk. This is a small, open-air rainforest with a waterfall right in the middle of the terminal, offering a refreshing and natural escape for passengers.

Lounges at KLIA

• At KLIA Terminal 1: The flagship Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounges are the main highlight. There are also excellent lounges for other major airlines and alliances.

• At KLIA Terminal 2: There are several pay-per-use lounges, which are a great option for passengers flying low-cost carriers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between KLIA and klia2?

They are two separate terminals of the same airport (KUL). KLIA (Terminal 1) is for full-service airlines like Malaysia Airlines, Emirates, etc. klia2 (Terminal 2) is for low-cost airlines, primarily AirAsia. You cannot walk between them; you must take a train or bus. Always check your ticket to know which terminal your flight uses.

2. I am arriving on Malaysia Airlines and connecting to an AirAsia flight. How do I transfer?

This is a common but crucial question. You will arrive at KLIA Terminal 1. You must clear immigration, collect your baggage, and clear customs. Then, you need to take the KLIA Ekspres/Transit train from Terminal 1 to KLIA Terminal 2 to check-in for your AirAsia flight. You must allow at least 3-4 hours for this entire process.

3. Is there a visa requirement for Indian citizens visiting Malaysia?

As of 2025, Malaysia often offers a visa-free entry or an easy e-Visa process for Indian tourists. However, these policies can change. It is essential to check the latest official visa requirements from the Malaysian High Commission or through their official immigration website before booking your travel.

They are two separate terminals of the same airport (KUL). KLIA (Terminal 1) is for full-service airlines like Malaysia Airlines, Emirates, etc. klia2 (Terminal 2) is for low-cost airlines, primarily AirAsia. You cannot walk between them; you must take a train or bus. Always check your ticket to know which terminal your flight uses.

This is a common but crucial question. You will arrive at KLIA Terminal 1. You must clear immigration, collect your baggage, and clear customs. Then, you need to take the KLIA Ekspres/Transit train from Terminal 1 to KLIA Terminal 2 to check-in for your AirAsia flight. You must allow at least 3-4 hours for this entire process.

As of 2025, Malaysia often offers a visa-free entry or an easy e-Visa process for Indian tourists. However, these policies can change. It is essential to check the latest official visa requirements from the Malaysian High Commission or through their official immigration website before booking your travel.