Malaysia in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Malaysia
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- East coast beaches (Perhentian, Redang) have crystal clear waters with 25-30 m (82-98 ft) visibility before monsoon fully arrives - best diving conditions of the year
- Peninsular west coast and Borneo experience drier conditions with temperatures dropping 2-3°C (4-5°F) from October peaks, making hiking and city exploration more comfortable
- Durian season peaks in November - roadside stalls sell premium Musang King for RM15-25/kg (compared to RM40+ other months), plus seasonal rambutans and mangosteens flood markets
- Accommodation rates drop 30-40% from peak season on west coast as European winter season hasn't started - luxury resorts in Langkawi and Penang offer significant discounts
Considerations
- East coast monsoon begins unpredictably mid-to-late November - ferry services to islands can be suspended with 12-24 hours notice, potentially stranding travelers or canceling plans
- Humidity peaks at 78% with afternoon thunderstorms lasting 45-90 minutes, making outdoor activities between 1-4pm uncomfortable and sometimes impossible
- Haze from Indonesian fires can return if winds shift - air quality in Kuala Lumpur and southern regions may reach unhealthy levels (API 100+) for 3-7 day periods
Best Activities in November
Perhentian Islands snorkeling and diving expeditions
November offers the final window for east coast islands before monsoon closures. Water visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) with calm seas and whale shark sightings at peak frequency. Coral reefs show maximum color saturation after the clearer months. Book before mid-November as operators shut down when monsoons intensify.
Cameron Highlands tea plantation trekking
Cooler November temperatures (18-24°C/64-75°F) make highland hiking ideal without the intense heat of other months. Morning mist creates dramatic photography conditions at tea estates. Strawberry farms offer u-pick experiences at peak ripeness. Less crowded than December school holidays.
Penang heritage cycling tours
Lower humidity and occasional cloud cover make November perfect for exploring George Town's UNESCO sites by bicycle. Avoid the 1-4pm heat window when most tourists take shelter - early morning (7-11am) and late afternoon (4-7pm) offer comfortable 26-28°C (79-82°F) temperatures. Street art murals photograph beautifully in softer November light.
Kuala Lumpur food market crawls
November's durian season transforms night markets - vendors offer fruit tastings and locals gather for seasonal specialties. Cooler evening temperatures (24-26°C/75-79°F) make walking between stalls more comfortable. Jalan Alor and Changkat markets buzz with energy as tourist season builds but hasn't peaked.
Kinabalu Park nature walks
November marks the end of Sabah's dry season with perfect conditions for lower altitude trails (500-1,200 m/1,640-3,937 ft). Canopy walkways offer wildlife spotting opportunities as animals are active before heavier rains arrive. Clear morning views of this destination before afternoon clouds form.
Malacca river and heritage district exploration
November's variable weather makes covered attractions ideal - river cruises offer air-conditioned comfort between walking segments. Historic sites like this destination and this destination are manageable in shorter walking bursts between indoor cultural centers. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable levels for night market exploration.
November Events & Festivals
Deepavali Festival of Lights
Malaysia's Hindu community celebrates with elaborate light displays in Little India districts across KL, Penang, and Ipoh. Temples offer free vegetarian feasts to visitors, and traditional oil lamp lighting ceremonies occur at sunset. Brickfields in KL becomes pedestrian-friendly with cultural performances and food stalls.
Penang International Food Festival
Annual celebration featuring local celebrity chefs, street food competitions, and traditional cooking demonstrations. Esplanade grounds host vendor booths showcasing regional specialties alongside international cuisine. Evening cultural performances accompany dining experiences.