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Weather Comparison

Penang vs Kuala Lumpur

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Penang: 29°CKuala Lumpur: 29°C294 km apart

December Weather: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur

MetricPenangKuala LumpurBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer29°C (84°F)29°C (84°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)23°C (73°F)Penang
Rain DaysFewer is drier21 days26 daysPenang
PrecipitationLess is drier189 mm278 mmPenang
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day8h/dayPenang
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer44Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better9 km/h8 km/hKuala Lumpur

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Penang edges ahead as the better destination in December. Penang offers 9 hours of daily sunshine with only 21 rain days, while Kuala Lumpur sees 8 sunshine hours and 26 rain days.

Penang can feel quite hot at 29°C, so plan for heat. Kuala Lumpur runs hot at 29°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Penang is the stronger choice in December. Penang receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Penang reaches an average high of 29°C (84°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Kuala Lumpur averages 29°C (84°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Penang receives approximately 189 mm of rainfall across 21 rain days during December. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Kuala Lumpur sees 278 mm over 26 rain days. That makes Penang the drier option by 5 rain days and 89 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur

Packing for Penang in December

Highs of 29°C, lows of 25°C, 21 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Kuala Lumpur in December

Highs of 29°C, lows of 23°C, 26 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthPenangKuala Lumpur
HighRainHighRain
Jan29°C15d29°C21d
Feb30°C16d30°C18d
Mar30°C23d30°C26d
Apr30°C28d30°C28d
May30°C27d30°C27d
Jun30°C22d30°C23d
Jul30°C21d30°C24d
Aug30°C24d30°C25d
Sep29°C26d30°C25d
Oct29°C29d30°C27d
Nov29°C27d29°C28d
Dec29°C21d29°C26d
29°

Penang Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

29°

Kuala Lumpur Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Penang warmer than Kuala Lumpur in December?
Penang and Kuala Lumpur have the same average high temperature of 29°C (84°F) in December. The average lows are 25°C and 23°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in December, Penang or Kuala Lumpur?
Kuala Lumpur gets more rain in December with 26 rain days and 278 mm of precipitation. Penang is the drier option with 21 rain days.
Is it better to visit Penang or Kuala Lumpur in December?
It depends on your preferences. Penang averages 29°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 21 rain days. Kuala Lumpur averages 29°C with 8 sunshine hours and 26 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Kuala Lumpur. For drier weather, Penang is the better pick.
How far apart are Penang and Kuala Lumpur?
Penang and Kuala Lumpur are approximately 294 km (183 miles) apart. Penang is located in Malaysia (Asia) while Kuala Lumpur is in Malaysia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Penang and Kuala Lumpur?
For Penang, January tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 29°C. For Kuala Lumpur, February is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 30°C highs.

Compare Penang and Kuala Lumpur in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Penang coordinates: 5.41°N, 100.33°E | Kuala Lumpur coordinates: 3.14°N, 101.69°E