Best time to visit Malaysia

+141
Malaysia

Best time of year to visit Malaysia

As Malaysia is positioned close to the equator, the weather is hot and humid year-round with occasional tropical rain showers. Seasons differ in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. So, the best time to visit Malaysia depends on the region you plan to visit. The wet season on the peninsula east coast and in Sarawak region runs between November and February. During this time, the west coast experiences sunny weather. Conversely, the rainiest months on the west coast and in Sabah region are April to October (peaking in September–October); but rains are sharp and short. So, if you aim for MarchAugust, most likely you'll have a great time in Malaysia. Spring is a good time for birdwatching, witnessing vanilla blooming or feeding baby sharks. Mind, this is the period of thick haze caused by air pollution, which can lead to flight cancellations. Hot and humid summer from June to September is a peak season when the country is filled with tourists, so book in advance. Numerous festivals like Christmas and Chinese New Year attract waves of tourists to Malaysia (especially west coast) from late December to early February.

23 THINGS TO DO IN MALAYSIA (MAY 30 - JUNE 08)

Canopy Walks in Borneo

Canopy Walks in Borneo

April–June • activity

See where birds fly and gibbons jump in Borneo

Langkawi SkyBridge

Langkawi SkyBridge

January–August • activity

Follow this curvy bridge up in the mountains and touch the Malay sky

Feeding Baby Sharks

Feeding Baby Sharks

April–June | October • activity

Even predators can be cute and friendly, if you know how to behave

Watching Orangutans

Watching Orangutans

May–October • nature

Thumbs up for orangutans and their opposable thumbs

Canopy Walks in Peninsular Malaysia

Canopy Walks in Peninsular Malaysia

June–August | January–February • activity

Explore Malaysia from the treetops

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

March–June | September–November • activity

Choose Malaysia if you want to see as many different kinds of birds as possible and meet colleagues from all over the world

Mangrove Forests

Mangrove Forests

January–February | June–August • nature

Check out these trees growing in sea water that host lots of crabs and prawns

Diving near Borneo Island

Diving near Borneo Island

April–October • activity

Dare to challenge a famous sea Drop Off

Longboat Ride and Longhouse Overnight

Longboat Ride and Longhouse Overnight

May–August • activity

Spend a few nights with an indigenous community to learn the cultural roots of many cultures of Southeast Asia

Pitcher Plant or Nepenthes

Pitcher Plant or Nepenthes

March–October • nature

These plants eat insects and even small mammals

Proboscis Monkeys

Proboscis Monkeys

all year round • nature

They may seem very cute because of their golden fur and tiny brown eyes, but their huge nose make them look rather weird

Rafflesia

Rafflesia

April–May | September–October  • nature

This flower is big, impressive, heavy, rare, unique and very stinking

Pygmy Elephants

Pygmy Elephants

June–September • nature

The world's smallest subspecies of elephants live in Malaysian Borneo

Bats of the Sarawak

Bats of the Sarawak

March–September • nature

If you are not scared of vampires, visit this four-million bat colony

Mountain Torq Via Ferrata

Mountain Torq Via Ferrata

March–July  • activity

The world's highest via ferrata near the summit of Mount Kinabalu, Borneo's highest peak

Hot Springs

Hot Springs

March–May • nature

Do you believe in the miraculous healing power or just want to test your body with really hot water on a cooler spring day?

Flashing Fireflies of Kampung Kuantan

Flashing Fireflies of Kampung Kuantan

November–August • nature

A huge colony of fireflies performs their dance of light as a one whole organism

Gawai Dayak (Hari Gawai)

Gawai Dayak (Hari Gawai)

early June • event

A vibrant Dayak ethnic festival, marking the end of the harvest season in Sarawak, Malaysia and West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Kuching Cat City

Kuching Cat City

April–September • activity

If you are a cat lover, visit this town occupied with cats while it enjoys a short break from rains

Vanilla Flowering Season

Vanilla Flowering Season

April–May • nature

Everyone knows the sweet aroma of this flower and its beans!

Gong Making in Sabah & Matunggong Gong Festival

Gong Making in Sabah & Matunggong Gong Festival

all year round (gongs) | October (festival) • event

Some tribes are distinct with dances, some with hunting, and the Rungus community has mastered its skills in making gongs

Petronas Twin Towers

Petronas Twin Towers

all year round • activity

If you're into tall buildings and long-range views, these twin skyscrapers are a must item on your bucket list

Black Orchids

Black Orchids

March–August • nature

Black orchids are a rare and fascinating flower not to be missed!

13 THINGS TO DO OUT OF SELECTED DATE RANGE

Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

on holdMay 14, 2023 • event

The premiere hot air balloon event in Malaysia

Borneo International Kite Festival

Borneo International Kite Festival

out of rangeSeptember 28–October 2 • event

Dragons, tigers, lizards, cats, and more! It gets very crowded up there, high in the sky

Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

on holdFebruary 2024 • event

An impressive balloon festival on the island of Penang

Harvest of Edible Swiftlet Nests

Harvest of Edible Swiftlet Nests

out of rangeFebruary–April | July–September • food

Have you tried a soup made with birds? With eggs? What about soup from the whole bird nest?

Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition

Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition

out of rangeMay 23–27, 2023 • event

There's hardly another festival in the world that brings together so many kinds of machinery

Traditional Kite Flying

Traditional Kite Flying

out of rangeMarch–April • activity

Peacocks, cats, and moons fill the sky when large kites are launched at the end of harvest

Tea Plantations and Pulled Tea

Tea Plantations and Pulled Tea

out of rangeFebruary–March | August–September • nature

Black, green, Oolong, teh tarik—try various sorts of tea in Malaysia

Riverboarding

Riverboarding

out of rangeOctober–March • activity

Have you ever imagined what it'd be like inside a washing machine? The answer is here!

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu

out of rangeFebruary–April • nature

You can start your lazy morning in bed with a cup of coffee, or enjoy your hot drink from a thermos on top of a mountain!

Malay Martial Arts Silat

Malay Martial Arts Silat

out of rangeJuly | September • event

Are they fighting or just dancing? It might be both, especially if they practice silat

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve

out of rangeDecember 31 • event

Ring in NYE at the beach or in the bustling megapolis of Kuala Lumpur

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year

out of rangeFebruary 10–25, 2024 • event

Chinese dragons and lions, night fireworks and magically lit temples, and many open houses for every person

Asam Embang (Mawang) or Jungle Mango

Asam Embang (Mawang) or Jungle Mango

out of rangeJanuary–February | July–August • food

This huge type of mango can be tasted and enjoyed only in Borneo

Last updated:
Jan
5
Feb
5.1
Mar
4.9
Apr
4.8
May
4.9
Jun
5.3
Jul
5.3
Aug
5.2
Sep
5.1
Oct
5
Nov
4.5
Dec
4.8

Malaysia weather in January

5/10 score
Acceptable
28° average
average temperatures
26 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
January is one of the coldest months in Malaysia, but, in fact, it’s still pleasant and warm. The peninsular part of Malaysia enjoys relatively dry weather, some sunshine and clear skies in January. Meanwhile, the Eastern parts like Tioman Island, Terengganu and Redang Island, as well as Perhentian Islands, witness considerably more rainfall and stronger winds. Kuala Lumpur has mild weather during January despite some rains. The afternoons get rather hot, while nights are pleasant with cooler temperature. January is one of the least sunny months with just about 6 hours of sunshine per day. Malacca and Cameron Highlands also experience comfortably warm temperature and a mild rainfall in the afternoon.On higher altitudes of the Cameron Highlands the temperature is slightly lower. Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu on the East experience stormy weather due to north-east monsoon. Heavy rainfall, rough sea and storms are typical. Island resorts are closed at this time. West Coast islands Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor enjoy sunshine and dry weather in January with clear skies and sunshine which make them a suitable destination for vacations.

Malaysia weather in February

5.1/10 score
Acceptable
28° average
average temperatures
25 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Most of West Coast and peninsular Malaysia enjoy sunshine and clear skies in February. The East Coast, though, experiences stormy weather, heavy rains and strong winds. The center of the peninsular, including Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, don’t get significant rainfall in February, however some short rains are still typical for the afternoon. The capital of Malaysia experiences warm temperatures that can get rather hot in mid-day. At night, it’s more cool and pleasant. It might get a little warmer than in January. The sunshine extends to 8 hours per day. There are 14 rainy days this month, but it’s still relatively dry. Cameron highlands experience slightly cooler temperatures than lowlands. East Coast destination such as Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Kota Bharu, and Redang see less severe weather in February, as north-eastern monsoon influence is easing up. It still rains often though, and the resorts remain closed. West Coast resorts at Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor experience great weather in February and are welcoming visitors. Hot, dry and sunny weather is perfect for a beach vacation.

Malaysia weather in March

4.9/10 score
Marginal
28° average
average temperatures
27 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
March brings more rain to the Peninsular part of the country, while the East Coast enjoys the end of north-east monsoon and welcomes back good weather. The west coast islands also have hot and sunny weather. The center of the country that includes Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and Cameron Highlands still has warm temperatures over 20°C (69°F). However, the Cameron Highlands sees heavy rainfall during March. This is also true of Kuala Lumpur and Malacca that get some downpours during the last phase of north-east monsoon. Rains are spread out over 17 days, and there are just 7 hours of sunshine daily. On the East Coast, Tioman Island,Kuantan, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu reopen resorts and hotels as rains get less frequent, and sunny weather prevails. West Coast’s Langkawi and Penang enjoy hot weather and relatively dry days.

Malaysia weather in April

4.8/10 score
Marginal
29° average
average temperatures
28 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
The shoulder period between the monsoons brings more rain to the center of the country. However, winds are not that strong, and rains are short. In the highlands, they are a little heavier but still short lived. The coasts and islands enjoy nice sunny weather and welcome tourists. From the north in Cameron Highlands to the south in Kuala Lumpur and Malacca spring brings heavier downpours. The temperature, however, remains comfortable and warm. Even at night, it doesn’t drop below 24°C (75 °F). Since the rains are short, it’s still possible to spend time outside. There are about 8 hours of sunshine this month.It’s the most sunny time in Kuala Lumpur. There are 19 rainy days in the capital. East Coast (Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu Terengganu, Redang) enjoys peak tourist season at this time with bright sunny weather and just occasional rains. West Coast islands such as Langkawi and Penang also have clear skies. But rains here are more frequent.

Malaysia weather in May

4.9/10 score
Marginal
29° average
average temperatures
27 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
May marks the start of south-west monsoon in Malaysia which mostly concerns its West Coast and islands. The East Coast enjoys sunny and dry weather, perfect for any outdoor activity. The center and the capital have less rain as dry season begins. Kuala Lumpur and Malacca see considerably less rainfall in May, but you can still see some afternoon showers. May still brings 17 rainy days in Kuala Lumpur. There are also eight hours of sunshine. The average temperature stays the same in Kuala Lumpur, being in high twenties Celsius or seventies Fahrenheit almost at all times. The air is a bit cooler in the north, at the Cameron Highlands. East Coast islands (Tioman, Perhentian, Terengganu) experience their peak dry season, calm seas and have perfect conditions for diving and snorkeling. On the contrary, West Coast islands Langkawi and Penang experience south-west monsoon winds that are bringing heavy downpours and afternoon thunderstorms. Rough sea conditions and storms are possible. Pangkor Island has a bit dryer weather at this time.

Malaysia weather in June

5.3/10 score
Acceptable
29° average
average temperatures
24 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Dry season prevails on the East Coast and the center of peninsular Malaysia, providing sunny dry weather and good sea conditions. However, the West Coast islands suffer from south-west monsoon causing heavy downpours. The capital of Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malacca region and Cameron Highlands can experience short afternoon showers despite the dry season. The temperature is warm and comfortable. June is one of the best month to see Kuala Lumpur due to full 8 hours of sun each day and just 15 rainy days per month. June is the second driest month in the capital. The weather suits well for sightseeing and walks in the city. West Coast islands Langkawi and Penang experience afternoon thunderstorms and downpours. See conditions are choppy and rough. The rains are not too long though, and sunshine is not absent at all. East Coast beaches at Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang, Kota Bharu are much better weather-wise these days. The weather is sunny, and seas are calm throughout June.

Malaysia weather in July

5.3/10 score
Acceptable
29° average
average temperatures
23 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
July is one of the driest months in Malaysia and is considered to be a favorable time to visit the country. The East Coast of the peninsula and islands experience hot, sunny, and dry days. The West Coast islands are more wet, seeing short, intense downpours every day. Kuala Lumpur still gets some tropical showers in the afternoon, even though July is the driest months in the capital. Eight hours of sunshine and warm temperatures in high twenties Celsius or seventies Farenheit give plenty of options for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Thunderstorms are typical and occur almost half of the days in July. Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu on the East Coast also offer perfect recreational opportunities due to clear cloudless skies and warm calm sea. West Coast islands of Langkawi and Penang are not so favorable during these months since south-west monsoon winds continue to bring heavy thunderstorms and rains in the afternoons. The sea is a bit choppy.

Malaysia weather in August

5.2/10 score
Acceptable
29° average
average temperatures
26 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
August is one of the driest and most favorable times for visiting Malaysia. The East Coast and central part of the country experience dry season, but the West Coast islands still feel the influence of south-west monsoon. Kuala Lumpur enjoys one of its driest times in August attracting plenty of visitors due to stable warm and rainless weather. However, you can still expect short showers in the afternoon and at night for 17 days this month. Thunderstorms continue as well. Cameron Highlands has a bit cooler temperature than Kuala Lumpur. However, it’s still warm throughout the country. 8 hours of sunshine that can be enjoyed every day. Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu on the East Coast also enjoy a dry season with sunny days and clear skies. Watersports are especially popular due to calm seas. West Coast experiences the full force of the south-west monsoon with heavy afternoon thunderstorms and choppy sea.

Malaysia weather in September

5.1/10 score
Acceptable
28° average
average temperatures
26 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
September is a shoulder month in Malaysia. It marks the end of the south-west monsoon, and the arrival of north-east monsoon. East Coast sees more wind, rough sea, and even temperature drop. The rains are yet to start, though. September is still a dry time, quite suitable for visiting Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur and Malacca have more downpours in September. However they last for just an hour and are followed by sunshine. Temperatures cool down slightly which makes it more comfortable to walk through the city, Cameron Highlands are experiencing cooler temperatures, around 19°C (65 °F).September is still perfect for outdoor activities and fun. Kuala Lumpur sees 8 hours of sunshine daily on this month. Thunderstorms and rains occur during 18 days. East Coast vacation season at Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu is still underway, although strong north-western winds make sea more choppy. West Coast islands of Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor still experience thunderstorms, although south-west monsoon is easing up.

Malaysia weather in October

5/10 score
Acceptable
28° average
average temperatures
27 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
October marks the end of the high tourist season and the start of the north-east monsoon season. The weather in the eastern part of the country is getting worse, while the west is still suffering from the influence of south-western monsoon. The central part of the country is also rather wet. Kuala Lumpur has 22 rainy days in October. It is the second wettest month in the city. But the sun eventually breaks through the clouds. There are 7 hours of sunshine every day, and the temperature slightly drops in comparison with the previous months. It doesn’t rain all the time, and you can still plan some sightseeing and activities. Thunderstorms still occur quite regularly in the capital.Tropical rains can also be expected in Malacca. Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu on the East Coast still have their resorts open despite more frequent rains, winds and rough sea. West Coast islands Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor suffer from the heaviest rainfall of the year in October.

Malaysia weather in November

4.5/10 score
Marginal
27° average
average temperatures
31 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
November is the wettest time of the year everywhere except for the West coast islands. While East Coast resorts close until March due to north-east monsoon, the West coast islands enjoy tourist season, clear skies and minimal rainfall. Kuala Lumpur is also caught in the middle of north-east monsoon. It rains during 25 days, or pretty much every day, as November is the rainiest time of the year. However, some sightseeing is still possible in Kuala Lumpur, even in November, since rains are mostly light and short. The sunshine will come out eventually. The temperature drops slightly in November, but it’s still warm and pleasant. East Coast islands experience the heaviest levels of rainfall, sea storms and high winds. Meanwhile, you can enjoy beach vacations on the West Coast. Langkawi and Penang enjoy nice weather with some occasional tropical downpours.

Malaysia weather in December

4.8/10 score
Marginal
27° average
average temperatures
29 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
North-east monsoon brings rains to Peninsular Malaysia and East Coast islands, where hotels are closed due to bad weather. Meanwhile, the West Coast resorts enjoy high season with sunshine and blue skies. In Kuala Lumpur, tropical downpours occur daily, but rains are short lived, and some sunshine is also present. The temperature stays around balmy 27°C (80°C), which is the coldest for Kuala Lumpur. In the mountains, it is a few degrees cooler. There are 6 hours of sunshine each day. Thunderstorms are typical during 25 rainy days this month. It is not recommended to visit East Coast in December, as Kuantan, Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Redang and Kota Bharu suffer from stormy weather, heavy rainfall, winds and turbulent sea. On the contrary, West Coast’s Langkawi and Penang offer ideal beach weather in December.