Best Time to Visit Malaysia
When is the Best Time to Visit Malaysia?
Overall, Malaysia is a year-round travel destination for visitors. Due to the tropical rainforest climate, temperature here does not fluctuate a lot throughout the year, ranging from 24 - 34 °C (75 - 93 °F); in addition, although frequent, rainfalls are mainly brief showers that occur in the afternoon, which have limited impact on travel plans.
But July and August in peak season are less recommended, as many tourists from nearby countries such as China, Japan and South Korea come here to spend their summer vacation, which leads to rise of travel costs.
Also, from October to February, the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia are significantly affected by the Northeast Monsoon, resulting in a large amount of rainfall, strong winds and rough waves. Many hotels and restaurants in this area are closed during the period, which are not the right time for a trip.
Best Time to Visit West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia – November to February
From November to February, the weather on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Malacca and Langkawi, is relatively less rainy, more suitable for traveling around. Take the example of Langkawi, it sees only 25 mm of rainfall in February while the average rainfall in October reaches 207 mm.
Besides, Chinese New Year and Christmas Day are two of the highlights during this period, so that visitors can soak themselves into strong festive atmosphere.
Malaysia Night View
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Best Time to Visit East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia – March to October
The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, with popular travel destinations like Redang Island, Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Tioman, experiences a dry season from March to October. There are calmer seas, more sunshine hours, more comfortable breezes and higher water visibility, making the East Coast a perfect place to enjoy a beach holiday. Visitors can try various activities like island hopping, diving and snorkeling.
It’s worth noting that many hotels and restaurants close one after another since late October due to the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon. They will reopen around March. As a result, it is not advised to visit this region during October to February.
Malaysia Crystal-clear Water
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Best Time to Visit Sabah and Sarawak / Borneo – May to October
The climate in Borneo, including both Sabah and Sarawak, from May to October is relatively dry, which is perfect for wild animal spotting and trekking in the national parks. Occasional rain creates comfortable conditions for wild animals in the forest and keeps the forest lush.
Notable places to explore during this time include Bako National Park in Kuching, Sarawak and Mount Kinabalu in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Whether you're interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or exploring Borneo's unique flora and fauna, this period offers the best conditions for such adventures.
Semporna, Sabah is a beach resort, famous for its crystal-clear water and soft sand. More sunny days, calmer seas during this period and soft sand provide perfect conditions for marine activities. Besides, turtles breed from May to October, offering a great chance to watch them laying eggs.
A Lovely Night Market
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Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands – January, February, June and July
Cameron Highlands enjoys a less rainy climate during January, February, June and July, with the average rainfall of 95 mm, 144 mm, 174 mm, and 173 mm respectively and average monthly rainfall of 11 to 14 days. Occasional rain creates a lively environment for plants and animals, while the overall dry climate make it an ideal time for visitors to go trekking through the jungle.
