If you’ve got a layover in Bakalalan, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BKM. The city, in Malaysia, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside BKM
Three things to verify before you walk out of BKM:
- Can you legally enter Malaysia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MYR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Bakalalan
From BKM, the local transport gets you to Bakalalan in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at BKM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Bakalalan itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Bakalalan Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Bakalalan might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Bakalalan
Two recommendations for your time in Bakalalan:
Start with City Center Walk. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BKM, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Bakalalan
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside BKM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BKM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Bakalalan and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at BKM
Long overnight layover? Your options at BKM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Malaysia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Bakalalan is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Bakalalan.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.