October in Malaysia is marked by a mix of heavy rainfall, high humidity, and warm temperatures, making it a transitional period between the southeast and northeast monsoon seasons. Despite the rains, this month offers a unique travel experience with cultural festivals, lush greenery, and relatively fewer crowds, making it appealing for certain types of travelers.
Weather in Malaysia in October
Malaysia experiences warm, humid, and rainy weather in October, with temperatures typically ranging between 22°C (71°F) at night and 33°C (91°F) during the day. While rain is frequent, it usually comes in short, intense bursts, with sunny breaks in between. The west coast, including Langkawi and Penang, receives the heaviest rainfall, while regions like Kuala Lumpur also see frequent showers. The east coast (Tioman Island, Redang, Perhentian Islands) begins to experience winds as the northeast monsoon starts to pick up, affecting sea conditions but still offering beach-friendly weather early in the month.
Regional Weather Breakdown in October in Malaysia
West Coast (Langkawi, Penang): Heavy rainfall is common, with Langkawi and Penang seeing some of their wettest days. Temperatures average around 29°C (84°F), and there can be some sunny breaks. This isn’t ideal for beach vacations but offers a vibrant atmosphere and quieter sightseeing opportunities.
Kuala Lumpur and Central Malaysia (Malacca, Cameron Highlands): Kuala Lumpur averages 27°C (81°F) with frequent but brief tropical downpours. The highlands, like Cameron Highlands, are cooler with an average temperature around 19°C (66°F), offering a refreshing escape with lush landscapes, ideal for those interested in tea plantations and hiking.
East Coast (Tioman Island, Redang, Perhentian Islands): Temperatures remain around 29°C (84°F), but sea conditions can be rough due to the incoming northeast monsoon. Early October is still a good time for beach activities, especially in Tioman and Redang.
Borneo (Kota Kinabalu, Sabah): Borneo’s weather is warm and relatively dry with temperatures around 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the beaches near Kota Kinabalu.
Is October a Good Time to Visit Malaysia?
Malaysia is a tropical destination, with rainfall largely throughout the Peninsula in October. You can visit Malaysia during this time of the year if you are fond of the tropical rain with a decent sunshine spread. East Coast destinations are more favorable for visits than the West Coast as the latter probably faces the heaviest rainfall of the year. However, you might want to avoid waterfalls and other destinations as the slopes get really dangerous and are often closed due to the monsoons.
Things to keep in mind:
Heavy Rainfall on the West Coast: Langkawi and Penang can experience significant rain, which may limit outdoor activities.
Humidity and Heat: High humidity makes the weather feel hotter, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
Choppy Seas on the East Coast: Sea conditions worsen toward the end of October, affecting water sports and island-hopping activities.
Things to Do in Malaysia in October
1. Attend Cultural Festivals
October is a festive month in Malaysia, especially for Hindu communities. Major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang come alive with the celebrations of Navaratri and Diwali/Deepavali, two Hindu festivals that bring vibrant displays, traditional dances, and lively street fairs. Kuala Lumpur’s Brickfields (Little India) and Penang’s Little India in George Town are particularly vibrant. During Navaratri, expect nine days of colorful rituals and dances, and as Diwali approaches, the streets are adorned with lights, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. October is also a time for Thimithi (the Fire Walking Festival), where devotees in select temples across Malaysia walk barefoot over hot coals in a show of devotion, a unique event for visitors to witness.
2. Explore Cameron Highlands’ Tea Plantations
October’s rains nourish the vegetation in the Cameron Highlands, giving a lush look to the rolling hills and tea plantations. This region is known for its sprawling tea estates, especially the Boh Tea Plantation, which offers guided tours where you can learn about tea production while enjoying sweeping views of the plantation. You can stroll through the plantations, sample fresh tea, and even take home a pack as a souvenir. Nearby, the Mossy Forest offers a scenic and relatively easy hiking experience through misty, ancient woodlands filled with unique plants and views of the lush hillsides.
3. Jungle Trekking and Wildlife Spotting in Borneo
October in Borneo offers ideal conditions for exploring Malaysia’s rich biodiversity, especially in Sabah and Sarawak. Kinabatangan River cruises allow you to spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its unique limestone karst formations, expansive cave systems, and ancient rainforest trails. For the more adventurous, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah presents a challenging but rewarding trek. Whether trekking through the rainforest or visiting wildlife sanctuaries, Borneo is perfect for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts in October.
4. Golfing in Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s capital is home to some of the country’s top golf courses, which offer an ideal morning activity in October before the rains set in. TPC Kuala Lumpur (formerly known as Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club) is particularly famous and has hosted numerous international tournaments. The club provides a lush, well-maintained setting that appeals to golfers of all skill levels. Early October mornings are often clear and mild, allowing golfers to make the most of the day before afternoon showers arrive.
5. Tea and Strawberry Picking in Cameron Highlands
Beyond tea plantations, the Cameron Highlands are also known for strawberry farms. Big Red Strawberry Farm and Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm offer strawberry-picking activities where you can pluck fresh strawberries right from the vine. These farms also have small cafes where you can enjoy freshly made strawberry treats, such as strawberry jam, ice cream, and milkshakes. The cool October climate enhances this experience, allowing you to take in the refreshing mountain air while surrounded by the verdant landscapes.
Festivals in Malaysia in October
1. Chinese Moon Cake Festival
Date: 6 October 2025
2. Navaratri
Navaratri is a nine-day Hindu festival honoring the Goddess Durga, celebrated with fervor across Malaysia, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. During this festival, temples are adorned with lights and flowers, and devotees engage in rituals, traditional dances, and prayer ceremonies to honor the goddess. This is a great time to visit Brickfields (Little India) in Kuala Lumpur or Little India in Penang, where the atmosphere is lively and filled with cultural performances.
3. Diwali
Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Hindu communities across Malaysia and usually falls in late October or early November. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, and it’s observed with beautiful lights, colorful rangoli (art made with colored powders or flower petals), and fireworks. The celebration is especially grand in places with significant Indian communities, such as Kuala Lumpur’s Little India and Penang’s George Town. Visitors can experience delicious Indian sweets, traditional performances, and the festive decorations that make this festival vibrant and memorable.
Date: 20 October 2025 (date may vary)
Tips
Do keep the weather forecast and climate in mind when travelling to Malaysia in October and pack accordingly. A light, waterproof jacket is a must during this season. Since a lot of places may be shut down due to the monsoons it is better to pre-plan and book everything in advance.October weather in Malaysia can be unpredictable, with varying rain levels across the country. If you’re planning a beach trip, the East Coast has the most favorable conditions early in the month, while city sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur and Penang is ideal for festival-goers. Cameron Highlands offers a cool retreat from the humidity, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that align with the rainy season. Overall, Malaysia weather in October requires flexibility in planning, with a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to ensure a fulfilling experience.
