Find cheap airlines flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Choose from 4 carriers that fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Batik Air Malaysia. Enjoy the cheapest tickets on this route with AirAsia.

Cheap flight deals from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Non stop flight deals! Book direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu: One way flights from $56, round trip flights from $47. Cheapest next 3 months.

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Flight Info | Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu is about 1,621.07 km. It takes around 2 hours 38 minutes on average to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. The most popular month to Kota Kinabalu is March. The off-season for travel is April.

Cheapest one-way flight price $47
Cheapest round-trip ticket price $47
Off-season for travel April
Peak season for travel March
Flight distance 1,621.07 km
Average flight time 2 hours 38 minutes
Popular airline Malaysia Airlines

When is the cheapest time to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu?

The cheapest time for Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu flights: Sep 21 to Sep 28 — one way flight prices from $27.

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Displayed prices are calculated based on the cheapest average weekly prices of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When are flight tickets from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) the cheapest?

    Airlines adjust prices for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu based on the departure date and time of your selection. By analyzing data from all airlines, we've discovered that on Trip.com, you can find the lowest flight prices on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
  • How much do flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) cost?

    According to Trip.com's data, the lowest price is around $87.
  • How long does it take to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) and what is the distance?

    It takes around 2 hours 38 minutes to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI).
  • What are the most popular airlines that fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)?

    Airlines with flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI): IndiGo, AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia), Turkish Airlines, AirAsia X Berhad, Malaysia Airlines, Myanmar Airways International and Firefly.

How to find a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Wait until the last minute and flight costs are often sky-high. Plan ahead, book the right way, and your savings can soar. We have loads of saving tips to help you find a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. Book your flights at the right time and save more.
1
Be flexible with your travel dates to get the cheapest Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu ticket.
Tap "Date" in the flight search bar to browse the calendar and find airfare from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu for the next six months in 2025. If you're looking to fly within the next three months, the lowest fare is $56 for a one-way ticket on Sat, Aug 16.
2
Compare cheap Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu flight deals from hundreds of airlines.
Our powerful search system compares prices from over 500 airlines. So you can find the cheapest flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. The most affordable airline currently operating on this route is AirAsia.
3
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Set up a Price Alert for your Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu route to track ticket prices effortlessly—no need to check manually every day.
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Book early or wait unitl the last minute to fine the best fares.
It's always better to book early! Airlines typically release their lowest fares about a year before departure, so check as soon as flights become available. If you miss that window, you may still find great deals closer to your travel date.
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Search for flights on the go.
For the best booking experience on the go, download Trip.com and search for cheap flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu to access exclusive deals just for you.

Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Sabah state and lies in east Malaysia. It is one of the major commercial and industrial centres of Malaysia, which makes it one of the fastest-growing cities in Malaysia. Hence is blessed with exquisite tourist spots. Also, tourism is a major industry supporting the city's economy. Inside the city, people can choose to explore delectable seafood, craft markets, museums, and some stunning lookout spots. Some nearby spots near the city will let you relish hot springs, windy river cruises, mangrove swamps, beautiful train rides, and ultimate diving experience. The city has plenty of locations to keep you busy, according to your itinerary. Be ready for a fun-filled holiday here!

Tip: December to April serves the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu.

 Arriving Kota Kinabalu

Kuala Lumpur Kota Kinabalu flight booking should be made for Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) as the destination. It is located about 8 kilometres from the city centre. There are n-number of flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, flying daily.  Direct flight to Kota Kinabalu takes approximately 3 hours to reach the destination. Key airline operators on this route are Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia Airways, and Malindo Air Airlines.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance for a budgeted holiday in this ultimate natural beauty.

Exploring Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers you a variety of travel experiences. The Nature love side of you would like to take a river cruise on the Klias River and spot a range of animals. Kinabalu National Park is a must-visit on your list to witness 90 mammal species and vascular plant species. Mount Kinabalu is a sacred mountain located in this national park. Trek to the top for some picturesque views.

There are some strikingly beautiful mosques in the city, namely Kota Kinabalu City Mosque and State Mosque.

Visit the Sabah State Museum to explore the city’s history. It holds a Science and Technology Museum along with Sabah Art Gallery.

For an adventurous holiday, get into the waters of Poring Hot Springs. Go for a leisurely walk at the Tanjung Aru Beach and also try kayaking. Enjoy street foods on the beach as well. Padas River and Kiulu River provide you with adrenaline rush if you try out white water rafting here!

Tip: If you are thinking of driving around yourself, buy a detailed map from the Sabah Tourism Office.

Shoppers Hop in Kota Kinabalu

There are many shopping places in Kota Kinabalu. The weekly Gaya street market on Sundays has a large number of local vendors selling traditional ethnic souvenirs. The handicraft market on the waterfront is famous for selling handicraft items and foodstuffs. Head to the Kampung Air, the flea market for budget shopping and small souvenirs. For low priced goods, Gaya Street Sunday Market will be a great option. The market ranges from souvenirs, toys, accessories, clothes, food, etc.

Tip: Prepare yourself to walk a lot because the local markets will be crowded.

Dining in Kota Kinabalu

Some of the cuisines you will find here include Japanese, Hungarian, Malaysian, American, and the list goes on. Trying freshly caught fish would be great here as Kota Kinabalu is located near the coast. The best place to enjoy delectable seafood is on the waterfront, which houses several trendy restaurants. 

Some of the must-try dishes include Roti Cobra from Kedai Makan, Laksa from Yee Kung, and Pan Mee from Lido Pan Mee. Head to the Gaya Street to taste different varieties of local cuisines. Apart from that, you can find vegetarian and non-vegetarian restaurants everywhere.

Tip: Do try this local seafood of Kota Kinabalu: Beef Noodle, Laksa, Bak Kut The, and Claypot rice. 

To book a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur, try Trip.com. It will not only help you in Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu flight booking but will also suggest you places to roam around, top markets for shopping and eating as well. Trip.com also lets you book your stay in Kota Kinabalu. Its customer rating will help you book the right hotel for yourself. Enjoy your trip to one of the most peaceful and diverse places in Malaysia!