Malaysia in March: Weather, Places to Visit, Festivals & Travel Costs (Complete Guide)

Malaysia experiences transitional weather in March that varies significantly between its western and eastern regions. 

West Coast Malaysia Weather in March (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi)

The west coast, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi, experiences lower precipitation levels throughout the month. You can expect occasional afternoon showers, but these are typically brief and refreshing rather than day-ruining downpours.

• Temperature range: 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)

East Coast Malaysia Weather in March (Perhentian Islands, Redang, Tioman)

The east coast, covering destinations like Perhentian Islands, Redang, and Tioman, enjoys its finest weather in March. With the end of the northeast monsoon in February, the region experiences abundant sunshine, calm seas and minimal rainfall. This makes March the best time to visit Malaysia if you plan to explore this region. 

• Temperature range: 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F)

Malaysian Borneo Weather in March (Sabah & Sarawak)

Malaysian Borneo maintains year-round tropical conditions. Both states experience scattered showers throughout the year, but March typically sees moderate rainfall with plenty of sunshine between showers. 

• Temperature range: 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F)

Highland Weather in March (Cameron Highlands & Genting Highlands)

Highland areas experience cooler temperatures and provide a cooler escape from the coastal heat.

Temperature range: 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)

Also Read:- Malaysia Travel Guide

1. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands rank among the top destinations in Malaysia. The island offers the best diving and snorkelling conditions.

• Why visit in March: Crystal-clear waters with good visibility, calm seas perfect for boat trips, pristine beaches without peak-season crowds and optimal marine life viewing.
• Activities: Snorkelling (Rs. 1,500-2,500/$18-$30) per person, diving packages (Rs. 3,500/$42) for two dives.

2. Penang

Penang Island sits on the northwest coast of Malaysia and is connected to the mainland by the Penang Bridge. George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and March offers comfortable weather for exploring its historic streets, temples and renowned food scene.

• Why visit in March: Pleasant temperatures for walking tours, vibrant street art in optimal viewing conditions, hawker centres serving dishes without oppressive heat.
• Activities: Local hawker meals cost Rs. 80-250 ($1-$3) per dish.

3. Langkawi

This duty-free archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea shines in March. The Langkawi Cable Car operates smoothly with clear views from the Sky Bridge, offering panoramic vistas across the Andaman Sea.

• Why visit in March: Clear skies for the Langkawi Cable Car and Sky Bridge views, calm seas for island-hopping tours.
• Activities: Langkawi Cable Car for Rs. 1,400 ($17) per person, Island-hopping tours Rs. for Rs. 1,200-2,000 ($15-$25).

4. Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's capital enjoys improving weather conditions through March, making it comfortable for exploring both outdoor and indoor attractions. The Petronas Twin Towers offer stunning city views, and Batu Caves remain accessible during weekday mornings. 

• Why visit in March: Comfortable temperatures for walking between neighbourhoods, cultural festivals and excellent shopping opportunities.
• Activities: Petronas Twin Towers observation deck for Rs. 1,800 ($22) per person, Batu Caves Hindu temple complex offers free entry and KL Tower observation deck at Rs. 700 ($8.50) per person.

5. Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park is a pristine slice of ancient wilderness, home to a 130-million-year-old rainforest, making it one of the oldest tropical rainforests on the planet. Dense jungles, towering dipterocarp trees, winding rivers, and rare wildlife come together to create an unforgettable nature escape for adventure lovers and slow travellers alike. 

• Why visit in March: Jungle activities like the canopy walkway, active wildlife and comfortable humidity levels for extended hikes.
• Activities: Canopy Walkway at Rs. 40 ($0.50), and guided treks costing Rs. 1,200-2,500. 

6. Cameron Highlands

The cool climate of Cameron Highlands provides a refreshing escape in March. The tea plantations, strawberry farms and the flower nurseries bloom with colourful displays, thereby offering a unique biodiversity. 

• Why visit in March: Comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, lush green tea plantations and minimal crowds.

Activities: BOH Tea Plantation offers free tours, Mossy Forest guided walks at Rs. 300-500 ($3.60-$6).

Also Read:- Best Countries to Visit in January: Top Travel Picks

Malaysia in March brings several significant celebrations, thereby adding cultural depth to any visit. Here are some of the well-known festivals in Malaysia during the month of March: 

1. Thaipusam 

Thaipusam is a Hindu festival where devotees carry kavadis as acts of devotion at temples like Batu Caves. The spectacle is celebrated in March and attracts thousands of participants and observers. 

2. Holi 

Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, typically falls in March and is celebrated in Malaysian cities. This festival of colours transforms streets into vibrant celebrations with music, dancing, and traditional sweets.

3. Qingming Festival

Chinese communities occasionally celebrate the Qingming Festival in March.

1. Water Sports and Marine Adventures

Malaysia’s weather in March offers favourable conditions for diving and snorkelling. The marine parks host vibrant coral ecosystems and peak water clarity during this period.

2. Jungle Trekking and Wildlife Watching

Malaysian Borneo's rainforests and Peninsular Malaysia's national parks offer exceptional wildlife encounters in March.

3. Urban Exploration

City walks through Kuala Lumpur's diverse neighbourhoods reveal architectural contrasts and culinary treasures. Malaysia's cities showcase incredible culinary diversity reflecting Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan influences.
 

Note: It is always recommended to book a fully customised and all-inclusive Malaysia Holiday Package to have a stress-free vacation!

Packing Essentials

• Light, breathable clothing. 
• Include a light rain jacket or compact umbrella for occasional showers. 
• Modest outfits for visiting religious sites.
• Reef-safe sunscreen. 
• Comfortable walking shoes.

Booking Strategy

It is the shoulder season, which translates to lower tourist crowds than the peak periods. Booking accommodation and tours one to two weeks in advance is sufficient.

Malaysia delivers exceptional travel experiences across its diverse regions during March. The month presents a compelling travel window characterised by improving weather, vibrant cultural celebrations and comfortable crowd levels. Whether you are drawn to jungle adventures in Borneo's ancient rainforests, cultural immersion in Penang's heritage streets, or relaxation on Langkawi's shores, Malaysia in March provides the weather and atmosphere to make these experiences memorable.