JB is often our go-to destination for short weekend getaways, but the heat and humidity can be hard to escape. If you’re looking for a refreshing change, consider a trip to Cameron Highlands – renowned for its cool climate, scenic tea plantations, and abundance of strawberries. With various travel options available, here’s your complete guide on how to get from Singapore to Cameron Highlands.
By Car
Driving from Singapore to Cameron Highlands is a great option for travellers who enjoy the freedom to set your own pace (and make as many snack stops as you like).
Self-driving routes
Driving from Singapore to Cameron Highlands typically takes about seven to eight hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey begins by crossing the Causeway or Second Link into Johor, then continuing north along Malaysia’s North-South Expressway (NSE). There are two main route options once you’re closer to the Highlands.
- The first is via Tapah (Exit 132), which is the older, more winding route through the mountains. This road offers plenty of charm and lush scenery, but it is narrow and not for the faint-hearted or those prone to motion sickness.
- The second option is via Simpang Pulai (Exit 137), which features wider roads and a gentler drive uphill. While it’s slightly longer in distance, it tends to be more comfortable and less stressful, especially for first-time drivers.
Both routes offer several Rest and Service Areas (RSAs) along the North-South Expressway, where you can take breaks during your drive. If you’re looking for a longer pause, consider stopping in Kuala Lumpur (KL), the halfway point between Singapore and Cameron Highlands.
Tip: Grab a Touch n’ Go card to smoothly pass through highway tolls. As a reference, the one-way toll from KL to Cameron Highlands is around RM25 (~S$7.24).
Private hires
If you prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride without worrying about directions or border procedures, booking a private hire is a convenient and comfortable alternative. These services typically offer door-to-door transport from Singapore to Cameron Highlands in a private car or MPV.
Private transfers can be arranged through platforms such as Klook, or independent operators like VIP Transport Sdn Bhd, SGJBTaxis and V6 Transport Agency. Some drivers are also bookable via WhatsApp, especially if recommended through travel forums or Facebook groups. Prices generally range from S$400 to S$700 for a round trip, depending on the size of the vehicle and number of passengers. This is a great option for families or groups of friends who want a hassle-free journey and are happy to split the cost.
By Flight and Bus
If you prefer to avoid a long drive or want to squeeze in a quick flight, combining air travel with a bus ride is a smart and efficient way to reach Cameron Highlands.
Fly into KL or Ipoh
Travellers can fly from Singapore to either KL or Ipoh, both of which have onward bus connections to Cameron Highlands.
For KL, flights from Singapore are frequent and operated by several airlines, including Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, Scoot, and Jetstar Asia. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour, and ticket prices typically range from S$50 to S$100 one-way, depending on the airline and how far in advance you book.
If you choose to fly into Ipoh, the only current option is Scoot. The flight from Singapore to Ipoh takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. While Ipoh’s airport is smaller and has fewer flight options, it is significantly closer to Cameron Highlands. Ticket prices generally range between S$100 and S$150 one-way.
Take a bus from KL or Ipoh to Cameron Highlands
Upon arrival in either KL or Ipoh, you can take a bus to Cameron Highlands. From Kuala Lumpur, buses depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) and head towards Tanah Rata, the main town in Cameron Highlands. The journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours, and several bus operators such as Unititi Express, CS Travel, and Pahang Lin Siong run this route. Tickets cost between RM35 and RM50, which is approximately S$10 to S$15.
If you are coming from Ipoh, buses depart from Amanjaya Bus Terminal and also travel to Tanah Rata. The ride is shorter, taking about two to three hours, and costs between RM25 and RM35, or roughly S$7 to S$10. Bus operators from Ipoh include Perak Transit and Unititi Express.
Is there a direct bus from Singapore to Cameron Highlands?
Technically, there are no official direct public buses that run nonstop from Singapore to Cameron Highlands. However, there are semi-direct options that make the journey with minimal transfers or stops.
The most common approach is to take a bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and then transfer to another bus heading to Cameron Highlands. These buses typically depart from locations like Golden Mile Complex or Boon Lay in Singapore and travel to Tanah Rata or Brinchang in Cameron Highlands. Operators such as KKKL Express, Unititi Express, and CS Travel provide these services.
The total journey takes around 9 to 10 hours, and ticket prices range from S$50 to S$70 one-way. These buses are air-conditioned, equipped with reclining seats, and often run overnight so you can sleep through most of the trip and wake up to the chilly mountain breeze.
Hill yeah! Road trippin’ from Singapore to Cameron Highlands
There are several ways to get from Singapore to Cameron Highlands, and each has its perks. If you love the freedom of the open road, a self-driving adventure through Malaysia might be perfect. For a more comfortable ride, consider booking a private hire or taking a direct coach. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, flying into KL or Ipoh and catching a bus is an efficient option.
Whichever route you choose, one thing’s for sure — you’ll be rewarded with cool air, gorgeous views, and maybe a selfie with the great plantations. Just don’t forget to pack a jacket. Cameron Highlands might be in Malaysia, but it’s sweater weather all year round. For more ideas on where to go this weekend, check out our guide on the best short getaway trips you can take!
