Malaysia, a place with lush green forests and picturesque islands, witness variations in temperature in different areas due to its shape and location. With sunny weather on the Western coast and rainy weather on the eastern coast, you can witness hot and humid weather in Malaysia in December. The nearness of the place to the equator makes it a moderately sunny country with occasional rainfall in some areas and thunderstorms in others.
Overview of December Weather in Malaysia
In December, Malaysia experiences two contrasting weather conditions. The west coast, including popular cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi, enjoys pleasant weather with average daytime temperatures of around 27-30°C. This makes it a great time for outdoor activities like beach vacations, sightseeing, and hiking. If you are lucky enough, then you may experience a tropical rainfall of 250mm, short-lived yet beautiful downpours. The east coast, however, is heavily impacted by the northeast monsoon, resulting in daily rainstorms, rough seas, and strong winds. As a result, places like Kuantan, Redang, and Kota Bharu are not ideal for visiting during this period.
Pros of Visiting Malaysia in December
Fantastic Beach Weather on the West Coast: With sunny skies and calm seas, the west coast, especially Langkawi and Penang, offers ideal conditions for beach lovers. It's the perfect time for water sports, sunbathing, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Penang. Festive Atmosphere: December marks the holiday season, with Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations in full swing. Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang are adorned with festive lights, decorations, and offer great shopping deals. Cooler Temperatures in Highlands: The cooler weather in regions like the Cameron Highlands offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
Cons of Traveling to Malaysia in December
Heavy Rain on the East Coast: The monsoon season makes the east coast regions, such as Terengganu and Kota Bharu, unsuitable for beach vacations or island hopping, with many resorts closed until March. Peak Season for Tourists: The west coast, particularly Langkawi, experiences a surge in tourists, resulting in crowded beaches and higher prices, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Malaysia?
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Planning to explore the western coast of Malaysia by visiting places like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi or Cameron Highlands among others, then December is the best month as you can enjoy some great activities including hot air balloon ride, underwater sports and even hiking. With the temperature variation across the country, you can feel some festive vibes as you get to attend big bad wolf book festivals and vibrant Christmas eve with an essence of sunny day and surreal rains periodically on the western coast. However, if you want to feel the beachy vibes and visit the islands of Redang, Kuantan etc., then December is a big NO.
Places to Visit in Malaysia in December
1. Langkawi Islands
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Enjoy nature's beauty at Datai Bay, Pantai Cenang and Tanjung Rhu beach of Langkawi or visit the underwater world and Pulau Payar Marine Park for a divine landscaped view. Also, a visit to Mount Mat Cincang to admire the Langkawi beauty is a must through a 15-minute cable car ride. Do enjoy a hiking trip to Gunung Raya or embrace the architectural divinity at Dataran Lang of Langkawi if you are visiting Malaysia in December.
2. Cameron Highlands
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Cameron Highlands is a hill station in the lap of Malaysia on the western coast, away from city farrago and buzz providing tranquillity with beautiful landscapes and arenas. Visit Mount Brinchang, Ee Feg Honey Bee farm, and Strawberry farm. Go for a jungle trekking to gain an adventurous experience. Don’t forget to carry your jackets as the evenings are chilly and cold as compared to sunny afternoons.
3. Penang
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An amalgamation of vibrant islands, the architectural beauty of Hindu temples, mosques and fun places of Escape adventure land or Adventure Zone theme park makes Penang a must-visit place in December. Food fanatics will have a great time in the food capital of Malaysia, Penang tasting some delicious street food and local cuisine.
4. Kuala Lumpur
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The capital city, Kuala Lumpur is the first destination which crosses the mind while planning for a vacation in Malaysia. Filled with attractions to visit, Kuala Lumpur is the most desired place to visit, especially in December for its temperate weather. Visit Batu caves, Jalan Alor, Petronas Tower, Sultan Abdul Samad building, Sunway Lagoon Theme park, among others to experience all the colours of Malaysia.
Events and Festivals in Malaysia in December
1. Big Bad Wolf Book Festival
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One of the most popular book events in Malaysia, big bad wolf book is organised every December in Malaysia at The Mines mall of Selangor. Attend the event to buy some bestseller books at reasonable rates.
Dates:- December 9 - December 19
2. Penang International Dragon Boat festival
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Teluk Bahang Dam in Penang is beautified with a famous dragon boat festival every year in the first week of December where more than 40 competitors participate in their vibrant dragon boats. The picturesque and colourful festival is worth attending for some captivating pictures and authentic Malaysian food.
When:- December 7- December 8
3. Christmas Eve
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Unlike the traditional snow-filled Christmas, Malaysia experiences colourful yet very different Christmas celebrations. Feel the joyful surroundings with carols, plum cakes, street food and lots of bling around in the city. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir in the must shopping spree of Christmas Eve in Malaysia.
When:- December 25
Tips for Visiting Malaysia in December
Weather in Malaysia is extremely unpredictable, and raindrops can fall anytime in a day, so carry an umbrella with you.
Pack some light cotton clothes and summer beach outfits to enjoy the temperate weather.
Carry woollen sweaters or jackets for a visit at Cameron highlands.
Do carry sunscreen and some beach essentials.
With the dominance of storms and rainfall in the Eastern region of Malaysia, western coast sees temperate weather with sunny days in December. It is possible to witness some raindrops in some areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Dive into the festival vibes and Christmas glitter with a trip to the western coast of Malaysia. But, do remember to keep a check on the weather forecast to avoid some surprise weather issues if you are in Malaysia, that too in December.
