Pretty much hot and humid throughout the year, Malaysia witnesses a dry season in April with its temperature ranging between 21 to 32 degrees Celsius. The sole reason behind this being its location close to the equator with the Indian Ocean to the west and the South China Sea to the east. The infrequent tropical showers in April give a sigh of relief against the humidity that exists for the entire year.
The average temperature in Malaysia in April ranges around 30 degrees Celcius on the west coast (towards Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi). The east coast of Malaysia experiences sunny skies in April which is ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling.
SourcePenang Hill or Bukit Bendera is a perfect spot to escape the scorching heat of Malaysia in April. Its the colder climate is absolutely owned by the top location of this hill which resides some 2400 feet above sea level. Home to a variety of flora, fauna, and different smaller peaks, Penang Hill boasts of one of its rainforests that has completed 130 million years. Head on towards the Penang Hill Railway for a 30-minute train journey that will give you some fantastic glimpses from your train window. Penang Hill is also equipped with 3 viewing decks for visitors to get a panoramic view of the scenery around.
SourceEasily accessed by car or any other public transportation except for train, the Cameron Highlands is an impressive hill station in the Malaysian state called Pahang. Founded by a British colonist, Cameron Highlands has always been successful at giving a colder climate to the Malaysians during the dry season. Apart from its tea plantations and cold weather, this elevated land is also popular for its wildlife, orchards, waterfalls, golf course, hotels, bungalows, and museums.
SourceResiding in the Malaysian state of Perak, Ipoh is generally a less crowded place whose tourism has been boosted recently to preserve its British colonial architecture. The New Town and Old Town of Ipoh that nestle on the east and west part of Kinta river respectively, have some shopping malls, holy shrines, and historical sites that give you a quick insight into British architecture. If in Ipoh, don’t forget to try the cuisine of the second food capital of Malaysia.
4. George Town
SourceMalaysia’s second-largest city and Penang’s capital George Town boasts a lot about its seafronts, hills, and parks. George Town is also a great place to appreciate architecture and pay a visit to some revered Chinese temples and vibrant colonial structures. The cross-cultural influence is clearly visible in the city’s cuisine where a variety of fusion foods are served at the local restaurants. Don’t forget to gape at the breathtaking skyline of this must-visit place in Malaysia.
5. Langkawi
SourceA landing destination for all romantic couples, Langkawi is an alluring archipelago of 99 islands. Myriad restaurants, resorts, and white sandy beaches reside on this Malaysian land which makes it the apt place for a dream vacation. The islands in Langkawi are hidden under dense green forests and paddy fields and are surrounded by sea-through turquoise waters. The natural beauty of this archipelago makes it a perfect destination for many honeymooners. Eagle Square, Galeria Perdana, Mahsuri Tomb and Museum, and Underwater World Langkawi are some of the popular attractions of Langkawi.
SourceSongkran is also known as the Thai Water Festival and is celebrated to mark the New Year. People enjoy this festival by splashing water on each other whereas the devotees pour water on Buddha statues. In Penang, this water festival mostly takes place near the temples and gives its tourists and natives a chance to get wet and enjoy the festival on the streets of Penang.
When: 13 April 2020 - 15 April 2020
2. Penang International Food Festival
SourceKnown as the food paradise of Asia, Penang offers its tourists and locals a great opportunity to try its popular cuisines. Visitors can taste some of the best food options of Malaysia like aromatic coffee, lip-smacking street food, and the sizzling barbeque at this hogging event. Depending upon your mood of interest you can choose to either savour traditional grub or fusion comestibles. This International Food Festival caters to its gourmands with fine dining options along with popular street food.
When: 13 April 2020 - 28 April 2020
3. Regatta Lepa Semporna
SourceAnnually held, Regatta Lepa is a traditional water festival that is celebrated by the Bajau folks around mid to end of April and lasts for some 2-3 days. At this festival, a floating parade of colourful lepa boats, lepa boat racing and tug-of-war, and fireworks take place and falls into the category of major highlights of this occasion. One of the most unique celebrations of Malaysia, this event pays homage exclusively to the lifestyle of the Sea Gypsies or Bajau Laut. Cultural music and Karaoke that is played during the nights, make the occasion much more vibrant. The event also holds a duck catching competition during its tenure.
When: Held every year in April
What to Pack?
Rain can come knocking anytime in April, so make sure to carry your umbrellas or buy one while you are on a trip to Malaysia. You can also purchase rain ponchos that will keep you and your clothes absolutely away from the cool tropical showers.
Carry light summery clothes for the hot afternoons and a bit warm clothes for cool evenings and nights in Malaysia.
Do not forget to carry your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat that will avoid the sun from ruining your skin shade.
Carry water-resistant footwear so that you don’t end up spoiling your brand new shoes or slipping on the streets of Malaysia.