Malaysia: Holiday Planning Guide

Travel to Malaysia: overview

Places and experiences in Malaysia

• Kuala Lumpur

  The Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves and a lively food scene.

• Langkawi

  Beaches, island-hopping and the Sky Bridge viewpoint.

• Penang

  George Town's heritage streets, murals and street food.

• Malacca

  A historic port city with colonial and Peranakan heritage.

• Cameron Highlands

  Tea plantations and cool highland air.

Planning your Malaysia trip

• Choose one or two bases to avoid long travel days.
• Weather differs between the east and west coasts, so choose beaches by season.
• Add Singapore for a short regional combination.
• Entry and visa rules depend on your passport and change from time to time, so confirm the current requirements with the official source before you book.

Best time to visit Malaysia

The west coast, including Langkawi and Penang, is generally best from December to March.

December to March

Drier on the west coast, a popular time for beaches.

April to October

Mixed weather; the east coast islands are open for much of this time.

November to February

Monsoon on the east coast, when many islands there close.

Practical information

• The currency is the Malaysian ringgit.
• Dress modestly at mosques and temples.
• It is hot and humid, with afternoon showers common.

This is general guidance. Seasons, entry rules and local conditions change, so please confirm details before you travel. We are happy to talk through your plans.

Malaysia travel questions