Best time to visit Malaysia from the UK: month by month, coast by coast
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In this guide
The trick with Malaysia is to choose your region first and your month second. Here is how to match them up.
Step 1: Know the two monsoon patterns
The west coast gets its heaviest rain roughly from September to November, with the north-east monsoon from about November to February hitting the east coast hardest. Many east coast island resorts close for part of that season. The west coast and Kuala Lumpur still see afternoon showers most of the year.
Step 2: Match region to month
| Where | Usually best | Usually wettest |
|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur | May to July, December to February | September to November |
| Penang and Langkawi | December to February | September to October |
| East coast islands | March to October | November to February |
| Cameron Highlands | Roughly March to September | Shorter afternoon rain most months |
| Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak) | Roughly March to October | November to February |
Typical patterns only; weather varies from year to year.
Step 3: Think about festivals and crowds
Malaysia has major festivals throughout the year: Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri after Ramadan, Deepavali and Christmas. They are wonderful to see but mean busy transport, closed businesses on key days and higher hotel prices. See Ramadan and Eid in Malaysia for UK travellers.
Step 4: Match flights to the UK calendar
UK school holidays, Christmas and summer push flight prices up. Travelling in the shoulder months, such as late January to March or October, is often cheaper. Compare dates before you commit.
Step 5: Pack for heat and rain
Light breathable clothes, a small umbrella or rain jacket, high-factor sun cream, and a light layer for strongly air-conditioned malls, buses and trains.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rainiest month in Malaysia?
It depends on the coast. The west coast is typically wettest around September to November, and the east coast around November to February.
Is December a good time to visit Malaysia?
December is usually good for Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi but is monsoon season on the east coast, where many island resorts close.
When are flights from the UK cheapest?
Outside UK school holidays and peak Christmas and summer dates, such as late January to March or October, fares are often lower.
