Weather in Malaysia in November

The weather in Malaysia in November is strongly influenced by the northeast monsoon, which brings heavy rainfall to the east coast and central regions. Islands like Tioman and Redang close for the season due to rough seas and safety concerns. Meanwhile, the west coast, including Langkawi and Penang, begins to dry out, offering better conditions for tourism, and Kuala Lumpur sees frequent rain, especially in the afternoons. November is a good time for exploring cultural sites, food scenes, or planning a relaxing trip to the west coast.

Malaysia in November at a glance

November is one of the wettest months in Malaysia, especially along the east coast. While beach travel becomes limited, city exploration, and highland retreats are still worthwhile.

• Average temperatures in Malaysia in November range from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C), with frequent, sometimes prolonged rain showers, particularly in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang, where many island resorts fully close for the season.
• The west coast, including Langkawi and Penang, receives less rainfall and continues to attract visitors. Kuala Lumpur and other urban centers are still suitable for museum visits, and shopping, while the Cameron Highlands offer a cooler alternative, with misty mornings, and occasional rain.
• Fewer tourists mean lower prices across the country, and November often serves as a peaceful time for slow-paced, immersive travel.

Is November a good time to visit Malaysia?

As the northeast monsoon reaches its peak, November brings heavier rains to much of the country, notably along the east coast. If you’re still figuring out the best time to visit Malaysia, November isn’t perfect — but it does come with perks like smaller crowds and better deals. Malaysia in November is warm and humid, with average temperatures hovering between 75°F and 89°F (24°C and 32°C), but frequent downpours are expected in many areas, particularly in the afternoon or evening.

The east coast islands — Tioman, Redang, and Perhentian — are off-limits for the season due to dangerous sea conditions as well as heavy rainfall. The west coast, though, continues to offer more favorable conditions. Destinations like Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor enjoy relatively dry and sunny days, making them excellent choices for beach vacations and sightseeing.

Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Ipoh remain accessible, with a wealth of attractions such as museums, temples, and shopping malls. The highlands are misty and green, though travelers should prepare for sudden rain and cooler evenings.

If you're planning your Malaysia itinerary around November, it’s best to focus on inland cities, cultural hotspots, and the drier west coast — great for a quieter, more relaxed trip with plenty to do indoors when the skies open up.

Average daily temperatures in November

November in Malaysia brings widespread rain, mainly on the east coast, as the northeast monsoon reaches full strength. In Kuala Lumpur, temperatures remain stable, with average highs around 89°F (32°C) and lows near 75°F (24°C). Rainfall becomes more frequent, often arriving in the late afternoon or evening, though mornings can still offer dry intervals.

Highs on the west coast — including Penang, Langkawi, and Melaka — average around 88°F (31°C), and nighttime temperatures stay near 76°F (24°C). While showers are common, they don’t tend to last long. On the east coast, in turn, cities like Kuantan, Terengganu, and Kota Bharu face heavy rain and strong winds. Daytime highs drop slightly to about 86°F (30°C), with lows around 73°F (23°C). Island resorts on Redang, Tioman, and Perhentian are closed, and sea travel is discouraged.

In the Cameron Highlands, daytime highs in November sit at a cool 67°F (19°C) and drop to 56°F (13°C) at night. Rain and mist are common but add to the region’s serene appeal. East Malaysia, including Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, remains humid with highs near 88°F (31°C), alongside persistent but manageable rainfall.

What about the crowds and costs?

November is a quiet travel month in Malaysia due to the intensifying northeast monsoon, which limits travel to the east coast. Many beach resorts are closed, and rainfall keeps international tourist numbers low. With fewer visitors, cities and highland destinations offer good value.

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Cameron Highlands frequently offer attractive promotions, and domestic flights may be cheaper outside peak weekends. The weather in Malaysia in November is ideal for slow travel, food discovery, and cultural immersion without crowds. It’s a great month for budget travelers seeking relaxed experiences and excellent deals.

Things to do in Malaysia in November

November brings heavier monsoon rains to the east coast, causing most islands to close for the season. Meanwhile, the west coast and interior highlands become better choices for budget travelers, offering rich cultural experiences and misty nature escapes. If you're after the best places to visit in Malaysia during the rainy season, this is the time to pivot inland or westward.

Head to the royal town of Kuala Kangsar

This charming town offers a royal heritage trail, including the majestic Ubudiah Mosque, Istana Kenangan, and the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery. November’s overcast skies cast a soft light over the grand architecture, creating a great backdrop for keen photographers.

Ride the Penang Hill funicular railroad

Escape the heat with a ride up Penang Hill, Malaysia’s oldest colonial hill station. At the top, enjoy cooler air, forest trails, and excellent views of George Town below — a classic pick among the more laid-back things to do in Malaysia.

Wander the Ipoh heritage trail

Spend the day exploring Ipoh’s heritage walk, passing old banks, theaters, and store houses. Stop by Plan B or Sin Yoon Loong for coffee and rain-watching. November showers add charm to the already nostalgic streets.

Relax in a rainforest chalet in Belum Rainforest

The ancient Belum-Temengor Rainforest in northern Perak is a great wet-season retreat. Stay in a lakeside eco-lodge, take boat rides across Temenggor Lake, and hike short jungle trails. 

Festivals and events in Malaysia in November

November brings a quieter vibe across Malaysia, but cultural depth and artistic expression shine through in niche festivals and regional celebrations. 

• Deepavali (or Diwali): Celebrated towards the end of the year in October or November, this Hindu festival is also known as the “festival of lights”. Oil lamps are lit to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. A ritual cleansing oil bath is taken in the morning before visiting the temple, and the entrances of houses are decorated with “kolam”, floral designs on the floor, to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. 
• George Town Literary Festival: A leading Southeast Asian literary event, George Town Literary Festival brings together local and international writers for panel discussions, readings, and writing workshops. It celebrates literature in English, Malay, and other regional languages.