Weather
As a tropical country, Malaysia is hot and humid year-round, with two main seasons: the wet and the dry. These seasons don't always happen at the same time throughout the country, and while some parts of Malaysia will be mainly dry in one month, other parts may be wetter.
October is sometimes referred to as autumn in Malaysia, but that's not entirely accurate in a tropical country that doesn't have four distinct seasons. However, it is generally wetter and (slightly) cooler than the dry season. Although levels of rain in October shouldn't have much impact on travel to most parts of Malaysia, you should expect showers in most parts of the country.
Temperatures sit between 71°F and 91°F (22°C and 33°C) throughout the year in most places, with higher altitudes being cooler than sea-level towns and cities.
Crowds & Costs
Travelers visit various places in Malaysia throughout the year, so there aren't clearly defined on and off seasons. Nevertheless, October is a shoulder-season month. You may find lower prices at some popular resort areas in October. However, other places (such as the Cameron Highlands and Melaka in Peninsular Malaysia) are particularly popular this month. The weather isn't ideal for jungle activities in Borneo, but as the weather isn't as wet as it will become later in the year, you could find a good deal on accommodation in Sabah or Sarawak.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
With a couple of major Hindu festivals happening in October (Navarathri, sometimes in September, and Diwali/Deepavali), this is a great month to visit parts of Malaysia with large Indian populations, especially Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Although there's likely to be rain in both places, these cities have plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy, so there's no need to shy away. Kuala Lumpur's Little India is also known as Brickfields, and this area will be lively throughout October.
Penang's George Town is a highlight of any trip to Malaysia and could keep culture and history enthusiasts occupied for weeks. Visit the Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion, the Peranakan Mansion, Armenian Street, Khoo Kongsi Clan Houses, Chew Jetty, and other Malay, Peranakan, Indian, Chinese, and colonial-era attractions around town. Foodies might also want to take a cooking class at the Tropical Spice Garden on Penang's north coast. George Town is also famous for its street art, and you can take guided or self-guided street art walking tours.
Penang's Little India is focused around Queen Street, Chulia Street, and Market Street and will be especially festive in October.
What to Do
Another popular place to visit in October is the Cameron Highlands, a hilly area roughly halfway between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. With the increasing rains, the hillside vegetation will return to life, making October a great time to tour a tea plantation. There are numerous tea plantations here, with the Boh Tea Company being one of the oldest and most famous. Founded in the 1920s, it's one of Malaysia's best-known tea brands. Admire the patchwork of tea bushes that cover the hillsides and shop for souvenir packets to take back home in the tea shop.
Many travelers like to visit Malaysia for a beach vacation, and while the rains indeed start to pick up in October, there are pockets of dry weather to enjoy a relaxing time on a beach. Langkawi is generally sunny in October and is a fun destination for hikers and more active travelers, and those who want to chill out on a beach. This island in northwestern Malaysia has two volcanic peaks to climb, a cable car and stunning lookout platform at the SkyBridge, wildlife-spotting mangrove tours, and resorts ranging from budget to luxury.
Events in October
Navarathri, nationwide. This Hindu festival lasts for nine days in September and October. It honors Mother Goddess Durga with singing and dancing in temples.
Diwali/Deepavali, nationwide. The Hindu festival of light is a five-day festival celebrating the triumph of good (light) over evil (dark). Parts of Malaysia with large Indian communities, especially Kuala Lumpur and Penang, will be especially festive at this time, particularly around temples. It can fall in October or November (or both).
Thimithi, nationwide. In this South Indian fire walking ceremony, devotees show devotion by walking over hot coals. It's a one-day event that's held either in late October or early November. It is best seen in parts of Malaysia with large Indian communities, especially Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
More Helpful Information
Malaysia in September
Malaysia in November
Best Time of Year to Visit Malaysia
Malaysia Tours & Itineraries