The LRT in Kuala Lumpur is one of the most convenient ways to travel around Malaysia’s capital and the wider Klang Valley. Connecting major commercial districts, residential neighbourhoods, shopping centres, transport hubs and popular attractions, the Light Rail Transit network forms an important part of Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system.
For visitors, the LRT provides access to destinations such as the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC, Chinatown, Masjid Jamek, KL Sentral, Bangsar, Bukit Jalil and Subang Jaya. It also connects with the MRT, KL Monorail, KTM Komuter and airport rail services, making it possible to explore much of Greater Kuala Lumpur without driving.
Kuala Lumpur’s LRT network comprises the Kelana Jaya Line, Ampang Line and Sri Petaling Line, with the newer Shah Alam Line (LRT3) designed to expand rail connectivity across the western Klang Valley.
Each line serves a different corridor, so understanding the routes and interchange stations can make travelling around Kuala Lumpur considerably easier.
This guide explains the LRT lines in Kuala Lumpur, where they go, which stations are most useful, how to pay, operating hours and practical tips for first-time passengers.
For a broader introduction to the city’s transport network, read our guides to Getting Around Kuala Lumpur, Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur and Using MRT, LRT & Monorail in Kuala Lumpur.
What Is the LRT in Kuala Lumpur?
LRT stands for Light Rail Transit, an urban railway system designed to transport passengers efficiently across Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding suburbs.
The LRT is part of the wider Klang Valley Integrated Transit System, which includes:
- MRT
- KL Monorail
- KTM Komuter
- KLIA Ekspres
- KLIA Transit
- BRT
- Public buses
Unlike conventional trains that primarily connect cities and towns over longer distances, the LRT is designed for frequent urban journeys.
LRT trains operate on dedicated tracks, allowing passengers to avoid Kuala Lumpur’s road congestion.
Most stations are elevated, although some sections of the Kelana Jaya Line run underground through central Kuala Lumpur.
The network serves both everyday commuters and visitors travelling between attractions, shopping districts and neighbourhoods.
How Many LRT Lines Are There in Kuala Lumpur?
The established Rapid KL LRT network consists of three operational services:
- Kelana Jaya Line
- Ampang Line
- Sri Petaling Line
The Shah Alam Line (LRT3) is a newer addition intended to connect Bandar Utama with Johan Setia, serving Shah Alam, Klang and surrounding areas. Its operating status and available stations should be checked against the latest official announcements before planning a journey.
Although the Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines are often discussed separately, they share tracks between Sentul Timur and Chan Sow Lin before branching towards different destinations.
This makes understanding the direction of travel particularly important.
Kuala Lumpur LRT Lines at a Glance
| LRT Line | Main Route | Major Areas Served |
|---|---|---|
| Kelana Jaya Line | Gombak – Putra Heights | KLCC, Masjid Jamek, KL Sentral, Bangsar, Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya |
| Ampang Line | Sentul Timur – Ampang | Titiwangsa, Masjid Jamek, Pudu, Maluri, Ampang |
| Sri Petaling Line | Sentul Timur – Putra Heights | Titiwangsa, Masjid Jamek, Bandar Tasik Selatan, Bukit Jalil, Puchong |
| Shah Alam Line (LRT3) | Bandar Utama – Johan Setia | Bandar Utama, Shah Alam, Klang |
The best line depends on where you’re starting and where you want to go.
For example, visitors travelling to the Petronas Twin Towers will generally find the Kelana Jaya Line most convenient, while those attending an event at Bukit Jalil National Stadium should use the Sri Petaling Line.
1. LRT Kelana Jaya Line
Route: Gombak – Putra Heights
The LRT Kelana Jaya Line is one of the most useful public transport routes for visitors exploring Kuala Lumpur.
Running between Gombak and Putra Heights, it connects several major destinations across central Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya.
The line is fully automated and operates driverless trains.
Major Areas Served
- Gombak
- Wangsa Maju
- Setiawangsa
- KLCC
- Kampung Baru
- Masjid Jamek
- Pasar Seni
- KL Sentral
- Bangsar
- Universiti
- Kelana Jaya
- Subang Jaya
- USJ
- Putra Heights
Important Kelana Jaya Line Stations
KLCC
The most convenient station for the Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC, KLCC Park and Avenue K.
Masjid Jamek
An important interchange with the Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines. The station also serves Kuala Lumpur’s historic city centre, including Merdeka Square and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
Pasar Seni
Provides an interchange with the MRT Kajang Line and access to Chinatown, Central Market and Petaling Street.
KL Sentral
Kuala Lumpur’s main transport hub, connecting with KTM Komuter, airport trains, other rail services and buses.
Bangsar
Serves the established Bangsar neighbourhood, known for its restaurants, cafés, shopping and residential areas.
Subang Jaya
Connects with KTM Komuter and serves the surrounding commercial and residential districts.
Putra Heights
The southern terminus of the Kelana Jaya Line and an interchange with the Sri Petaling Line.
Who Should Use the Kelana Jaya Line?
The Kelana Jaya Line is particularly useful for:
- Tourists visiting KLCC
- Travellers arriving at KL Sentral
- Visitors exploring Chinatown
- People staying in Bangsar
- Commuters travelling between Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya
- Passengers travelling towards Subang Jaya
For the complete station list, interchanges and attractions, read our dedicated LRT Kelana Jaya Line Guide.
2. LRT Ampang Line
Route: Sentul Timur – Ampang
The LRT Ampang Line connects northern Kuala Lumpur with the city centre and eastern neighbourhoods around Ampang.
It shares its northern section with the Sri Petaling Line before the two routes separate at Chan Sow Lin.
The Ampang Line is particularly useful for travelling between the historic city centre, Pudu, Maluri and Ampang.
Major Areas Served
- Sentul
- Titiwangsa
- Chow Kit area
- Masjid Jamek
- Plaza Rakyat
- Hang Tuah
- Pudu
- Chan Sow Lin
- Maluri
- Pandan Indah
- Ampang
Important Ampang Line Stations
Titiwangsa
A major interchange with the MRT Putrajaya Line and KL Monorail.
Masjid Jamek
Connects with the Kelana Jaya Line and provides access to Kuala Lumpur’s historic centre.
Plaza Rakyat
Connected to Merdeka MRT station on the Kajang Line, providing access to Chinatown and surrounding attractions.
Hang Tuah
Connects with the KL Monorail and provides access to Berjaya Times Square and Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre.
Chan Sow Lin
The station where the Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines separate. It also connects with the MRT Putrajaya Line.
Maluri
Connects with the MRT Kajang Line and serves shopping destinations such as Sunway Velocity Mall.
Who Should Use the Ampang Line?
The Ampang Line is useful for:
- Travelling between central Kuala Lumpur and Ampang
- Visiting historic Kuala Lumpur
- Reaching Pudu
- Travelling to Maluri
- Connecting with the MRT at Maluri or Chan Sow Lin
Our LRT Ampang and Sri Petaling Line Guide explains both routes, their shared stations and the correct trains to board.
3. LRT Sri Petaling Line
Route: Sentul Timur – Putra Heights
The LRT Sri Petaling Line connects central Kuala Lumpur with southern areas of the Klang Valley, including Bandar Tasik Selatan, Bukit Jalil, Puchong and Putra Heights.
It shares the same tracks as the Ampang Line between Sentul Timur and Chan Sow Lin.
After Chan Sow Lin, the Sri Petaling Line continues south towards Bukit Jalil and Puchong.
Major Areas Served
- Sentul
- Titiwangsa
- Masjid Jamek
- Hang Tuah
- Chan Sow Lin
- Bandar Tasik Selatan
- Sungai Besi
- Bukit Jalil
- Sri Petaling
- Puchong
- Putra Heights
Important Sri Petaling Line Stations
Bandar Tasik Selatan
An important transport interchange connecting with KTM Komuter, KLIA Transit and Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS).
Bukit Jalil
The main rail station for Bukit Jalil National Stadium and the surrounding sports complex.
Sri Petaling
Serves the established residential and commercial neighbourhood of Sri Petaling.
IOI Puchong Jaya
Provides access to IOI Mall Puchong and surrounding commercial areas.
Putra Heights
Connects with the Kelana Jaya Line, allowing passengers to continue towards Subang Jaya, Petaling Jaya, KL Sentral and KLCC.
Who Should Use the Sri Petaling Line?
The Sri Petaling Line is particularly useful for:
- Attending concerts and sporting events at Bukit Jalil
- Travelling to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan
- Visiting Puchong
- Travelling between central Kuala Lumpur and Putra Heights
- Connecting with the Kelana Jaya Line
For more detailed information, see our LRT Ampang and Sri Petaling Line Guide.
4. LRT Shah Alam Line (LRT3)
Route: Bandar Utama – Johan Setia
The LRT Shah Alam Line, commonly known as LRT3, is designed to improve public transport connectivity across the western Klang Valley.
Unlike the older LRT lines, which primarily connect Kuala Lumpur with established urban corridors, the Shah Alam Line focuses on areas including Bandar Utama, Shah Alam and Klang.
The project is intended to provide a new rail alternative for communities that have historically depended heavily on cars and buses.
Major Areas Along the Route
- Bandar Utama
- Tropicana
- Glenmarie
- Shah Alam
- UiTM Shah Alam
- Klang
- Bandar Bukit Tinggi
- Johan Setia
Why Is the Shah Alam Line Important?
The Shah Alam Line is expected to improve rail connectivity between Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam and Klang.
It also creates new opportunities for travelling between residential neighbourhoods, universities, employment centres and commercial districts.
Important Interchanges
Bandar Utama
Designed to connect with the MRT Kajang Line.
Glenmarie
Provides connectivity with the Kelana Jaya Line through the Glenmarie area.
Because LRT3 is a newer project, passengers should confirm the latest operating arrangements, available stations and interchange facilities before travelling.
Our dedicated LRT Shah Alam Line (LRT3) Guide covers the route, stations, destinations and project details.
Major LRT Interchange Stations in Kuala Lumpur
One of the biggest advantages of Kuala Lumpur’s LRT network is its integration with other public transport services.
Several stations allow passengers to change between LRT, MRT, Monorail, KTM and airport trains.
| Station | Connecting Services |
|---|---|
| Masjid Jamek | Kelana Jaya, Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines |
| Pasar Seni | Kelana Jaya Line and MRT Kajang Line |
| KL Sentral | Kelana Jaya Line, KTM Komuter, KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit |
| Titiwangsa | Ampang/Sri Petaling Lines, MRT Putrajaya Line and KL Monorail |
| Hang Tuah | Ampang/Sri Petaling Lines and KL Monorail |
| Plaza Rakyat | Ampang/Sri Petaling Lines and MRT Kajang Line via Merdeka |
| Maluri | Ampang Line and MRT Kajang Line |
| Chan Sow Lin | Ampang/Sri Petaling Lines and MRT Putrajaya Line |
| Bandar Tasik Selatan | Sri Petaling Line, KTM Komuter and KLIA Transit |
| Sungai Besi | Sri Petaling Line and MRT Putrajaya Line |
| Subang Jaya | Kelana Jaya Line and KTM Komuter |
| Putra Heights | Kelana Jaya Line and Sri Petaling Line |
Not every interchange is within the same paid station area.
For example, KL Sentral connects to the MRT Kajang Line through the pedestrian walkway to Muzium Negara, while the KL Monorail station is reached through NU Sentral.
Our KL Sentral Guide explains how to navigate this important transport hub.
Best Attractions Accessible by LRT in Kuala Lumpur
The LRT is particularly useful for visitors because several of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular attractions are located near its stations.
Petronas Twin Towers
Nearest station: KLCC
Line: Kelana Jaya
KLCC station provides convenient access to the Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC, KLCC Park and surrounding attractions.
The station is one of the most useful stops for first-time visitors.
Merdeka Square
Nearest station: Masjid Jamek
Lines: Kelana Jaya, Ampang and Sri Petaling
Merdeka Square is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most important historic landmarks.
Nearby attractions include:
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building
- Royal Selangor Club
- Kuala Lumpur City Gallery
- River of Life
- Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad
The area is best explored on foot.
Chinatown and Petaling Street
Nearest station: Pasar Seni
Line: Kelana Jaya
Pasar Seni is one of the most convenient stations for exploring Chinatown.
Nearby destinations include Central Market, Petaling Street, Kasturi Walk and several historic temples.
Our Petaling Street Guide explores the neighbourhood’s history, attractions and food.
Berjaya Times Square
Nearest station: Hang Tuah
Lines: Ampang and Sri Petaling
Hang Tuah provides access to Berjaya Times Square and Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre.
The station also connects with the KL Monorail.
Bukit Jalil National Stadium
Nearest station: Bukit Jalil
Line: Sri Petaling
Bukit Jalil station is particularly useful during major concerts, sporting events and international competitions.
Large crowds are common after major events, so passengers should allow additional time when leaving the stadium.
Little India, Brickfields
Nearest station: KL Sentral
Line: Kelana Jaya
Brickfields is known for Indian restaurants, traditional shops, temples and colourful streets.
Visitors can walk from KL Sentral towards Little India.
Bangsar
Nearest station: Bangsar
Line: Kelana Jaya
Bangsar is one of Kuala Lumpur’s established lifestyle neighbourhoods, known for cafés, restaurants, bars and residential streets.
However, many of Bangsar’s popular dining destinations are not immediately beside the LRT station.
A short bus or Grab journey may be required.
Explore our Bangsar Neighbourhood Guide for more information.
How to Use the LRT in Kuala Lumpur
Using Kuala Lumpur’s LRT network is relatively straightforward, even for first-time visitors.
Step 1: Identify Your Destination
Before entering the station, check which LRT line serves your destination.
For example:
- KLCC — Kelana Jaya Line
- KL Sentral — Kelana Jaya Line
- Masjid Jamek — Kelana Jaya, Ampang or Sri Petaling
- Maluri — Ampang Line
- Bukit Jalil — Sri Petaling Line
- Puchong — Sri Petaling Line
If your destination is not directly served by LRT, check whether an MRT, Monorail or bus connection is available.
Step 2: Check the Train Direction
LRT trains display their destination.
For example, the Kelana Jaya Line operates towards either:
- Gombak
- Putra Heights
The Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines require additional attention because they share tracks through central Kuala Lumpur before separating at Chan Sow Lin.
Check whether your train is heading towards Ampang or Putra Heights.
Step 3: Pay Your Fare
Use a Touch ‘n Go card or purchase a single-journey token at the station.
Step 4: Follow the Platform Signs
Stations have route maps, platform signage and electronic displays.
Step 5: Transfer When Necessary
Follow interchange signs when changing between lines.
Some interchanges are within the same station, while others require a short walk.
How to Pay for the LRT in Kuala Lumpur
Rapid KL’s LRT network uses a distance-based fare system.
The amount you pay depends on your starting station, destination and payment method.
Touch ‘n Go Card
Touch ‘n Go is one of the most convenient payment options for regular travellers.
It can also be used across much of Kuala Lumpur’s MRT, Monorail and bus network.
Single-Journey Token
Visitors without a Touch ‘n Go card can purchase a single-journey token at ticket machines.
Tokens are valid for the selected journey.
Rapid KL Travel Passes
Eligible Rapid KL travel passes may provide better value for passengers making multiple journeys.
Pass prices, eligibility requirements and validity periods may change, so check the latest information before purchasing.
For more details about payment methods across Kuala Lumpur’s transport network, see our Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur Guide.
LRT Kuala Lumpur Operating Hours
Rapid KL LRT services generally begin operating at approximately 6:00am.
Services continue until late evening, although final train times vary according to the line, station, direction and day.
Train frequency is generally higher during weekday morning and evening peak periods.
Passengers travelling late at night should check the latest station-specific timetable rather than assuming every train operates until midnight.
Service frequency and operating arrangements may also change during major events, maintenance works or temporary disruptions.
LRT vs MRT in Kuala Lumpur: What’s the Difference?
Visitors often wonder whether they should take the LRT or MRT.
Both are urban rail systems that form part of Kuala Lumpur’s integrated public transport network.
However, they serve different routes and have different characteristics.
| Feature | LRT | MRT |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Urban and suburban rail connectivity | High-capacity urban and suburban connectivity |
| Main lines | Kelana Jaya, Ampang, Sri Petaling and Shah Alam | Kajang and Putrajaya |
| Train capacity | Generally smaller | Generally larger |
| City centre coverage | KLCC, Masjid Jamek, KL Sentral | Bukit Bintang, Chinatown, TRX, KLCC area |
| Suburban coverage | Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Ampang, Puchong | Damansara, Cheras, Kajang, Kepong, Putrajaya |
| Integration | MRT, Monorail, KTM, airport rail | LRT, Monorail, KTM, airport rail |
For passengers, the most important difference is not the technology but which line takes you closest to your destination.
For example, the Kelana Jaya Line is particularly useful for travelling to KLCC, while the MRT Kajang Line is more convenient for Bukit Bintang.
Our MRT Kuala Lumpur Guide explains the Kajang and Putrajaya Lines in greater detail.
Can You Get to KLIA Using the LRT?
The LRT does not travel directly to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
However, passengers can transfer to airport rail services at several transport hubs.
Via KL Sentral
Take the Kelana Jaya Line to KL Sentral and transfer to:
- KLIA Ekspres
- KLIA Transit
Via Bandar Tasik Selatan
Take the Sri Petaling Line to Bandar Tasik Selatan and transfer to KLIA Transit.
For more information, read our guides to KL Airport to the City Centre and KLIA Express vs KLIA Transit.
Is the LRT Good for Tourists?
Yes. The LRT is one of the most useful public transport options for visitors exploring Kuala Lumpur.
It provides convenient access to major attractions, shopping centres, transport hubs and established neighbourhoods.
The Kelana Jaya Line is particularly useful for tourists because it directly serves KLCC, Masjid Jamek, Pasar Seni and KL Sentral.
The Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines are useful for reaching historic Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Times Square, Bukit Jalil and other areas.
However, not every tourist attraction is directly accessible by LRT.
For example, Bukit Bintang is more conveniently served by the MRT Kajang Line and KL Monorail, while Batu Caves is accessible by KTM Komuter.
For most visitors, the best approach is to combine LRT journeys with MRT, Monorail, buses, walking and occasional Grab rides.
Tips for Using the LRT in Kuala Lumpur
- Use Touch ‘n Go if you plan to travel frequently.
- Check the train destination before boarding.
- Pay particular attention to the Ampang and Sri Petaling Line branches.
- Use Masjid Jamek to transfer between the Kelana Jaya and Ampang/Sri Petaling Lines.
- Use Pasar Seni to transfer to the MRT Kajang Line.
- Use KL Sentral for airport trains and KTM connections.
- Use Bukit Jalil station for major stadium events.
- Avoid weekday rush hours when possible.
- Allow additional time for transfers at large stations.
- Check official service updates before late-night journeys.
- Use feeder buses or Grab for destinations farther from stations.
Frequently Asked Questions About LRT Kuala Lumpur
How many LRT lines are there in Kuala Lumpur?
The established Rapid KL LRT network comprises the Kelana Jaya, Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines. The Shah Alam Line (LRT3) is a newer project expanding connectivity across the western Klang Valley.
What is the main LRT line in Kuala Lumpur?
The Kelana Jaya Line is one of the most important and heavily used LRT routes, connecting Gombak with Putra Heights through KLCC, Masjid Jamek, KL Sentral, Bangsar, Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya.
Which LRT line goes to KLCC?
The Kelana Jaya Line serves KLCC station, which provides convenient access to Suria KLCC and the Petronas Twin Towers.
Which LRT line goes to KL Sentral?
The Kelana Jaya Line stops at KL Sentral.
Which LRT goes to Bukit Jalil?
The Sri Petaling Line serves Bukit Jalil station.
Which LRT goes to Ampang?
The Ampang Line runs between Sentul Timur and Ampang.
Does the LRT go to Bukit Bintang?
There is no LRT station named Bukit Bintang. Visitors can transfer to the KL Monorail at Hang Tuah or use the MRT Kajang Line.
Does the LRT go to Kuala Lumpur International Airport?
No. Passengers must transfer to KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit at KL Sentral or KLIA Transit at Bandar Tasik Selatan.
Can I use Touch ‘n Go on the LRT?
Yes. Touch ‘n Go cards are accepted on Rapid KL LRT services.
What time does the LRT start operating?
LRT services generally begin at approximately 6:00am, although passengers should check the latest station-specific timetable.
Is the LRT connected to the MRT?
Yes. Important interchanges include Pasar Seni, Maluri, Chan Sow Lin, Titiwangsa and Ampang Park.
Is the LRT or MRT better for tourists?
Both are useful. The LRT is particularly convenient for KLCC, Masjid Jamek and KL Sentral, while the MRT Kajang Line serves Bukit Bintang, Chinatown and TRX.
The LRT in Kuala Lumpur is an essential part of the city’s public transport network, connecting major attractions, shopping districts, residential neighbourhoods and transport hubs across the Klang Valley.
The Kelana Jaya Line is particularly useful for travelling between KLCC, Masjid Jamek, KL Sentral, Bangsar, Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya.
The Ampang Line connects central Kuala Lumpur with eastern neighbourhoods, while the Sri Petaling Line provides access to Bukit Jalil, Puchong and Putra Heights.
The newer Shah Alam Line (LRT3) is designed to expand rail connectivity towards Shah Alam and Klang.
For visitors, the key to using the LRT efficiently is understanding which line serves your destination and where to transfer.
Combined with the MRT, KL Monorail, KTM Komuter, airport trains and public buses, the LRT makes it considerably easier to explore Kuala Lumpur and the wider Klang Valley without driving.
For more detailed information, explore our guides to the LRT Kelana Jaya Line, LRT Ampang and Sri Petaling Line, LRT Shah Alam Line, MRT Kuala Lumpur, and Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur.
