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Best time to visit Penang: month by month
Short answer
December to March is the driest season, with highs of about 28–30°C and the most visitors, especially at Chinese New Year. April to November is hot and humid with afternoon storms, and September to November is wettest (around 24–29 rainy days a month in the data).
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C | 24°C | 19 | high |
| Feb | 30°C | 24°C | 17 | very high |
| Mar | 30°C | 24°C | 25 | medium |
| Apr | 30°C | 25°C | 28 | medium |
| May | 30°C | 25°C | 26 | medium |
| Jun | 29°C | 25°C | 26 | medium |
| Jul | 29°C | 25°C | 22 | medium |
| Aug | 29°C | 24°C | 27 | medium |
| Sep | 29°C | 24°C | 24 | low |
| Oct | 29°C | 24°C | 28 | low |
| Nov | 28°C | 24°C | 29 | low |
| Dec | 28°C | 24°C | 22 | high |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Hot, about 30°C, with rain increasing from April.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
About 29°C with frequent short storms; Hari Raya and school holidays can be busy.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
The wettest months, about 28–29°C, with heavy afternoon rain.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Drier and slightly cooler, about 28–30°C; Chinese New Year and Thaipusam festivals.
Events worth planning around
- Chinese New Year and the Chingay parade (January or February)
- Thaipusam procession to the Waterfall Hill Temple (January or February)
- George Town Festival of arts (around July to August)
- George Town UNESCO Heritage Day (7 July)
When to avoid
Avoid Chinese New Year if you want cheap rooms; avoid October–November if heavy rain bothers you.
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Common questions
What is the best time to visit Penang?
December to March, the driest months.
Is it hot all year?
Yes, around 28–30°C with high humidity.
When is Chinese New Year in Penang?
January or February, with lanterns and celebrations for about two weeks.