Cheapest and Most Expensive Times to Visit Malaysia

Most Expensive Time to Visit Malaysia

The most expensive times to visit depend on regional dry seasons, school holidays, and major festivals.

• West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Langkawi, Penang, Kuala Lumpur) – Dry Season (December to March)
  Ideal beach weather draws both domestic and international tourists. Chinese New Year (January or February) causes a sharp spike in prices nationwide.
• East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Perhentian Islands, Redang, Tioman) – Dry Season (April to September)
  Calm seas make it prime diving and snorkeling season. Accommodations on smaller islands are often fully booked in advance.
• Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak) – Dry Season (March to October)
  Best time for climbing Mount Kinabalu, wildlife viewing, and diving in Sipadan. June through August is the busiest stretch.
• Major Festivals (Variable Dates)
  • Hari Raya Aidilfitri – Hotels fill up as locals travel home, and some tourist areas see big surges.
  • Thaipusam in Batu Caves (January/February) – Attracts massive crowds, raising hotel rates in Kuala Lumpur.

Cheapest Time to Visit Malaysia (Low Season)

The cheapest periods fall during regional monsoon seasons, when weather is less favorable for outdoor activities.

• East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia – Northeast Monsoon (November to February)
  Heavy rains and rough seas close most resorts and ferry services. The few accommodations open offer deep discounts.
• West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia – Southwest Monsoon (May to September)
  More frequent showers, though still plenty of sunny days. Tourism is slower except in Langkawi and Penang, which have milder rain patterns.
• Borneo – Wettest Months (November to February)
  Rain is heaviest, especially in Sarawak. Some trekking routes and wildlife areas may be harder to access.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia on a Budget (Shoulder Season)

For lower prices with decent weather, aim for the months right before or after the regional peak seasons.

• West Coast – Late March to April & October to Early November – Good weather without peak-season pricing.
• East Coast – Late September to October – Seas are still calm before the monsoon arrives, with fewer crowds.
• Borneo – Late February to March & Late October – Transition months with improving or still-manageable weather and better deals.

Seasonal Travel Demand Summary