Best months
January, February, and November
Warmest month
February, 33°C
Wettest month
September, 328 mm
Penang weather by month
Average daily high and low, total rainfall and days with at least 2.5 mm of rain.
| Month | High / low | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 32°C / 25°C | 89 mm · 5 days | Hot |
| February | 33°C / 25°C | 84 mm · 5 days | Hot |
| March | 33°C / 25°C | 144 mm · 8 days | Hot |
| April | 32°C / 25°C | 193 mm · 11 days | Hot |
| May | 32°C / 25°C | 244 mm · 12 days | Hot |
| June | 32°C / 25°C | 170 mm · 8 days | Hot |
| July | 32°C / 25°C | 207 mm · 9 days | Hot |
| August | 32°C / 25°C | 213 mm · 11 days | Hot |
| September | 31°C / 24°C | 328 mm · 13 days | Hot |
| October | 31°C / 25°C | 306 mm · 15 days | Hot |
| November | 31°C / 25°C | 254 mm · 13 days | Wet |
| December | 31°C / 25°C | 141 mm · 10 days | Hot |
Penang by season
Spring
Penang's spring (March-May) is hot and humid, marking the tail end of the drier season and the beginning of increased rainfall.
- + Warm, tropical weather
- + Lush, green landscapes after earlier rains
- + Fewer tourists than the peak December period
- − Increasing humidity and heat
- − Higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms
Summer
Summer (June-August) sees consistent rainfall, particularly in the form of intense but often short-lived afternoon showers. Temperatures remain consistently warm.
- + The island is at its most vibrantly green
- + Fewer crowds
- + Occasional beautiful, dramatic skies after rain
- − High humidity (often over 80%)
- − Frequent rain can disrupt outdoor plans
Autumn
Autumn (September-November) is one of the wettest periods, with the monsoon season bringing heavier and more prolonged rainfall, especially on the island's western side.
- + Low season prices for accommodation
- + Very few tourists
- + A truly local experience
- − Highest rainfall of the year
- − Possible flooding in low-lying areas
Winter
Winter (December-February) is Penang's peak, dry season. The weather is slightly less humid with lower rainfall, making it the most pleasant time for exploration.
- + Best weather: sunny and dry
- + Ideal for all outdoor activities and street food hunting
- + Vibrant atmosphere with festivals like Chinese New Year often falling in this period
- − Peak tourist season: crowded attractions and higher prices
- − Need to book accommodation well in advance
Penang month by month
Penang in January
HotIn January, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 5 rainy days and 89 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in February
HotIn February, Penang averages highs of 33°C and lows of 25°C, with about 5 rainy days and 84 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in March
HotIn March, Penang averages highs of 33°C and lows of 25°C, with about 8 rainy days and 144 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in April
HotIn April, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 11 rainy days and 193 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in May
HotIn May, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 12 rainy days and 244 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in June
HotIn June, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 8 rainy days and 170 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in July
HotIn July, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 9 rainy days and 207 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in August
HotIn August, Penang averages highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C, with about 11 rainy days and 213 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in September
HotIn September, Penang averages highs of 31°C and lows of 24°C, with about 13 rainy days and 328 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in October
HotIn October, Penang averages highs of 31°C and lows of 25°C, with about 15 rainy days and 306 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Penang in November
WetIn November, Penang averages highs of 31°C and lows of 25°C, with about 13 rainy days and 254 mm of rain. It is one of the wetter months, so keep indoor plans in reserve.
Penang in December
HotIn December, Penang averages highs of 31°C and lows of 25°C, with about 10 rainy days and 141 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Top tours and experiences in Penang
The tours and tickets travellers book most, with ratings and reviews from Viator.
Guided Tour of Cheong Fatt Tze's Blue Mansion in George Town
4.5508 reviews45m
from €6
Check availability
All things to do in Penang →
Tours and prices from Viator, a Tripadvisor company. Prices change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.
Plan your Penang trip
Best time to visit Penang: FAQ
What is the best month to visit Penang?+
January is the most comfortable month on average, with highs of 32°C. February and November are close behind.
What is the rainiest month in Penang?+
September is the wettest month, with about 328 mm of rain.
How hot does Penang get?+
February is the warmest month, with average highs of 33°C and lows of 25°C. The coldest nights come in September, averaging 24°C.
Averages for 2006–2025 from the PENANG INTL weather station (14 km from the centre), NOAA Global Historical Climatology Network. Verdicts rate sightseeing comfort from daytime highs and rainy days.