Seasonal Planning for Malaysia Travel
Malaysia is a tropical country located on the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, extending east into part of Borneo Island. There's a decent amount of regional variation for a medium-sized nation (it's about the size of Italy). For example, offshore islands and inland mountain ranges rise up through the coastal plains. Plus, there are many urban areas, and close to a third of Malaysia's some 33 million citizens reside in the capital of Kuala Lumpur. That aside, up to 70% of the country is covered in rainforest, which should give you an idea of the rainfall the country receives.
This has to do with Malaysia's location on the global map. It sits just above the equator, which means you can expect high humidity and tropical rains throughout the year. The annual rainfall is around 80%, somewhere between 78 inches (200 cm) and 98 inches (250 cm). Very few areas of the country receive less than 78 inches. In Kuala Lumpur, for example, expect rainfall year-round, with November seeing the most precipitation (around 10 in/25 cm).
Still, Malaysia has some variations in climate and rainfall. Technically, Malaysia has only two seasons (wet and dry). However, monsoon periods result in rainier conditions in certain parts of the country than others. Winds blowing in from the Indian Ocean create monsoons in the southwest of Malaysia from May to October, while those blowing in from the South China Sea lead to northeastern monsoons from October to March. So, if you're planning a getaway to Malaysia's west-coast islands, November through March is ideal, as the region is cool and dry during these months.
The good thing about all those climate caveats is that there's always a part of Malaysia you can visit at any time of the year in which you'll enjoy a bit less rain and cooler temps. The simple rule of thumb is that October to March is the best time to visit the country's west, while May to September is best to tour the east. And if you spend the bulk of your time in Kuala Lumpur, expect conditions to vary little—it will be rainy and humid most of the time.
| Seasons | Pros | Cons | Best for | Where to Visit |
| Northeast Monsoon (Oct-Mar) | Less rain on the west coast; Lush countryside during October; Highs of 89°F (32°C) | Rainy on the east coast, not ideal for beach or island destinations | West coast island holidays | Penang, Langkawi Islands |
| Southwest Monsoon (May-Oct) | Ideal beach weather and island weather on the east coast; Highs of 89°F (32°C) | Not ideal to visit Penang or Langkawi islands; Heavy monsoon rains on the west coast | East coast islands, outdoor activities in October, city sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur | Perhentian Islands, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands |
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Northeast Monsoon Season in Malaysia (October to March)
Showers and monsoon rains define this season, although the one thing that remains relatively constant throughout Malaysia is the climate. Temperatures vary little throughout the year, regardless of the season. Expect average temps to hover around 77°F (25°C) with highs of 89°F (32°C). The exception is the inland highland areas, where temperatures are cooler. For example, the Cameron Highlands see highs of 76°F (24°C) and a frigid low (for Malaysia) of around 58°F (14°C).
Even with reliable temperatures, the weather can vary considerably throughout the country. In this northeast monsoon season, expect heavy rains to drench the east. Usually, though, the worst of the weather occurs in the afternoon, and you might luck out with at least a couple of hours of sunshine in the morning. Even so, most visitors avoid the east during this time in favor of the western beaches and islands, where it's drier with more sun. Expect larger crowds and higher hotel prices in west-coast hot spots like the islands of Penang and Langkawi.
If there is a high peak season in Malaysia, it would be from December through to February, which coincides with the holiday season. Tourists from Europe arrive during the Christmas holidays, but there are also plenty of other cultural celebrations and Asian holidays during this time. Expect parties and festivals in the west, while the east will undoubtedly see fewer visitors.
And if you're considering a trip to Malaysian Borneo, across the South China Sea in the easternmost part of the country, this would not be the ideal time. The region sees high humidity and temperatures year-round, with average highs of 97°F (37°C) in certain places, like Kuching. The northeast monsoon season also results in the most precipitation in this region, with monthly rainfall occasionally peaking at 20 inches (51 cm).
Events in Northeast Monsoon Season
Christmas/New Year, nationwide. Islam and Buddhism are the two most practiced religions in Malaysia. However, there are significant Christian populations in various parts of the country, including Penang and the district of Sabah, on Borneo. Expect Christmas celebrations in larger cities leading up to December 25 and ample New Year's festivities at the end of December.
Lunar New Year, nationwide (especially in Chinese communities). Also known as Chinese New Year, this is the most important holiday for Chinese communities, and Malaysia is no exception. The holiday is celebrated over 15 days, with the emphasis placed on the first three days. During this time, there are many celebrations, with fireworks going off deep into the night. The best place to see them is in Kuala Lumpur (particularly in Chinatown and the district of Petaling Jaya) and in George Town, the capital city of Penang Island. It can fall between late January and mid-late February.
Thaipusam, nationwide (in Tamil Hindu communities). The world's most prominent Hindu religious festival sees its biggest celebrations just north of Kuala Lumpur, at Batu Caves, and is held in late January or early February. On this limestone hill is an important temple and sacred shrine devoted to Lord Murugan. There's a 140-foot (42-m) gold-painted statue of Lord Murugan here, the third largest statue of a Hindu deity in the world. Tamil-speaking Hindus celebrate this thanksgiving to their lord with celebrations, processions, chanting, and other ceremonial acts ranging from shaving the head to body piercings.
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Malaysia in October
Malaysia in November
Malaysia in December
Malaysia in January
Malaysia in February
Malaysia in March
Southwest Monsoon Season in Malaysia (May to October)
From May to October, the west side of the Malay Peninsula is often drenched by monsoon rains. Therefore this is the perfect opportunity to visit eastern Malay highlights such as the tropical paradise of the Perhentian Islands, Tioman Island, Terengganu, and Redang Island. It's also a decent time to visit Kuala Lumpur, so long as you keep in mind that it is generally rainy and humid year round. Average humidity in Malaysia's capital reaches highs of 90% in November.
Still, this season, the east coast is generally less humid and drier. And with the sun out and decent visibility in the ocean, people flock to the dive resorts. Not only is this an ideal time to enjoy eastern Malaysia's beaches, but it's also perfect for trekking. Inveterate hikers might want to head to the northern end of the island of Borneo and the state of Sabah. That's where Mt Kinabalu is located, which happens to be the third highest mountain in Malaysia. If you plan on ascending this 13,4350-foot (4,095-m) behemoth, plan on at least two days and one night for the journey. For a tour that covers Sabah and Mt Kinabalu, read this article.
Interestingly, there's a shoulder season during the overall southwest monsoon season. It occurs from March to May, a period that generally sees a brief respite in heavy rains across the country. It's an excellent time for an aforementioned mountain hike, but the conditions are equally great for visiting Malaysia's some 25 national parks and viewing the abundant wildlife that resides within them. Taman Negara is a great option, as it protects virgin rainforests and rivers. It's home to exotic animals like tigers and macaques, and there's the option to trek to the top of the 7,175-foot (2,187 m) Mt Tahan.
And although the rains begin to pick up during October (since it's the transition period to the northeastern monsoon season), this is the perfect time to visit the Cameron Highlands. Located a few hours north of Kuala Lumpur in the district of Pahang, this highland region encompasses 274 square miles (712 sq km). It's famous for its picture-postcard countryside covered in tea plantations and strawberry fields, which are green and flourishing with the new rains in October.
Events in Southwest Monsoon Season
Wesak (or Vesak) Day, nationwide. This is one of the principal holidays for Malaysian Buddhists, as it celebrates Buddha's birth and enlightenment (nirvana). It's celebrated on the Sunday in May closest to the full moon, and because Buddhism is the second-most practiced religion after Islam, there is much celebration throughout the country. In Kuala Lumpur, parades and decorated floats are accompanied by processions of Buddhists carrying flowers and candles.
Ramadan/Hari Raya Aidilfitri, nationwide. This means "celebration day," and indeed, this Islamic holiday celebrates the breaking of the fast of Ramadan. During this time, families reunite to pray and feast. The exact date of Ramadan varies each year and follows the Islamic lunar calendar.
Dragon Boat Festival, Penang. This is a colorful and fun boat race and cultural experience in early June on the island of Penang. It's been held for over 30 years and involves teams from all over the world gathering to race elaborately designed dragon boats.
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Malaysia in May
Malaysia in June
Malaysia in July
Malaysia in August
Malaysia in September
Malaysia in October