Best Time to Visit Malaysia 2026

Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, an island city territory divided into east and west. The East Coast of Malaysia shares a border with Indonesia, while the West Coast of Malaysia is located on the Malay Peninsula. Because of the difference in geographic location and the influence of ocean currents and atmospheric circulation, the climate varies from east to west.

For better weather with pleasant sun and temperature, you can visit the East Coast of Malaysia from April to October while the West Coast of Malaysia is from November to March. This is the dry season and your trip will not be disturbed by rain and you will have a wonderful tour in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur

What Is the Weather Like in Malaysia

The climate in Malaysia is characterized by summer all year round. As it is located near the equator, there are no obvious four seasons here. The temperature difference changes very little in a year, with the average temperature between 26 degrees centigrade and 30 degrees centigrade. According to the different rainfall, it can be divided into rainy season and dry season.

West Coast of Malaysia

Located on the Malayan Peninsula, home to Langkawi, Penang and Pangkor, the dry season is from November to March when northeasterly winds prevail and precipitation is low. The rainy season is from April to October when southwesterly winds prevail and precipitation is high.

Malaysia Lowlands & Highlands

The middle land of Malaysia like Kuala Lumpur, Malacca has a tropical rainforest climate with high temperatures and rainfall throughout the year, with the average annual temperature ranging from 28 degrees centigrade. Due to the high altitude in Cameron Highlands, the climate there is cool and refreshing throughout the year means that the temperature ranges from 15 to 24 degrees centigrade throughout the year.

East Coast of Malaysia

The East Coast of Malaysia is located in the northern part of Borneo. The rainfall is high from November to March and low from April to October. Statistically, the further east the island is, the less rainfall there is; inland areas receive more rainfall than coastal areas.

March to May - The Best Time for Adventure

From March to May, it is the spring season of beautiful natural scenery, one of the best times for you to experience outdoor activities in Malaysia since the less rainfall on the east coast as well as the vibrant Borneo. Temperatures at this time are also cooler throughout the land, allowing travelers to relax and take in the adventure of Malaysia.

As a great time to visit Sabah, you can climb Mt. Kinabalu on a bright sunny day, and take a clear view of the vivid forest from the mountain peak. Deep into the clear east sea to play with colorful fish, or down to the vivid Borneo rainforest to catch the details of those lovely creatures.

You can completely relax and embrace nature with an open heart, discovering the rarest flora and fauna in off-the-beaten-path Borneo, like orangutans and whale sharks. A variety of exploratory activities are at your disposal, including jungle safaris, river boating and waterfall swimming. It is a time to enjoy all the gifts that nature has given us.

Kinabalu National Park

June to August - The Peak Season to Visit Malaysia

June to August is the peak season for Malaysian sightseeing. There is less rain and plenty of sunshine at this time of the year, another great time to enjoy forest exploration as well as the cozy beaches and islands on the east coast.

You can head to Kuala Lumpur to start your city walking tour to learn about the history of Malaysia in detail as well as to have a great experience biking with your friends or loved ones beside such a beautiful historical site. A water bus cruise around the island is a good choice to visit the east coast island, a wonderful experience to be in the crystal-clear sea with the sea breeze and sunshine.

The area of Pulau Perhentian is a National Conservation Park. There are large white sandy beaches, blue water and dense jungle. With many snorkeling spots here, it is a paradise for diving lovers to catch colorful tropical fish. For a cooler summer experience, the Cameron Highlands with its enchanting tea garden will meet your needs.

Cameron Highland

September to November - The Shoulder Season of Malaysia

From September to November is the transitional season in Malaysia. There is relatively little rain at this time of year and it is mainly concentrated at night, but still a great time for the city sightseeing in the middle land.

Penang is a vivid destination, best known for its outstanding food scene and relaxed atmosphere. Often referred to as the Emerald of the Indian Ocean, the island is rich in plant and animal life, with forested hills offering sweeping views where greenery meets the sea.

Malacca presents a different charm. Its historic streets and heritage buildings invite unhurried walks through corridors lined with elegant architecture and intricate decorations. On weekends, Jonker Walk Market comes alive with specialty foods, lively stalls, and warm local interactions, creating a welcoming and memorable evening experience.

Malacca Street View

December to February - Time to Enjoy the Festival Atmosphere

An end-of-year journey to Malaysia is a good time to meet the various festival atmospheres, from Christmas to New Year's Eve, from the grand Thaipusam to the Chinese New Year, there are always some festivals you can catch.

The west coast of Malaysia is better explored from December to February when you can start your island hopping in Langkawi and experience the inspiring street art in George Town. Kota Kinabalu can be one of your best destinations. The coastline here is so long that you can take off your shoes and walk on the waves to get in touch with the sea with a spectacular sunset.

You can also choose a beachfront pub with festival decorations and enjoy this visual feast over a drink. If the East Coast is on your sightseeing list, then a little bit of rainfall there can let you take advantage of the bargain prices as well as the empty background for your memory photo.

George Town, Penang

What to Pack for a Trip to Malaysia in Different Seasons

Dry Season

If you are keen on the outdoors in the dry season, make sure you prepare sun protection in advance. Sunglasses, sun protective clothing, sunscreen, and umbrellas are all essentials. You will also need summer dress pants and sneakers.

Rainy Season

Firstly, you need to prepare umbrellas, raincoats, non-slip shoes and other rain protection. More than that, there is a big difference in temperature between day and night during the rainy season, so you need to bring a jumper or a thin jacket in case you catch a cold.

Items for Hiking

First of all, water and food definitely need to be prepared. Secondly, light clothing pants, and hiking shoes are also among the necessities. What's more, you can carry a first aid kit with you so that if you get injured during the hike you can deal with it in time.

Items for Safari

For starters, you can bring along navigation gear such as binoculars and a compass, which will not only come in handy when you get lost in the wilderness but also a great help to catch the movement of the hiding wildlife. Don't forget to carry mosquito repellent, protection against leeches, and a first aid kit with you.

Plan Your Trip With Odynovo

Malaysia blends ancient traditions with modern life. From bustling Kuala Lumpur to historic Penang, and from tropical islands to vibrant marine habitats, there is something for every traveler. Visit during the best time to fully experience all that Malaysia has to offer with Odynovo. Contact us now!