Deepavali in Penang 2026: a visitor guide

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A practical guide to visiting Penang during Deepavali; dates, cultural etiquette, and what travellers should expect.

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is the Hindu festival of lights, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. It is one of the most important festivals of the year for Hindus, marked by family gatherings, prayers, and traditional rituals. Small clay lamps are lit to symbolise the victory of light over darkness, and colourful rangoli designs are created outside homes and in public spaces. In the lead-up to the holiday, shopping for new clothes, sweets, spices, and decorations is a key part of the celebrations.For visitors, Deepavali is part of Penang’s rich calendar of festivals. For a wider overview, see our Penang festivals guide.

The festival is particularly visible in areas with significant Indian Hindu communities, such as George Town, Jalan Burma, and Butterworth, where streets are decorated, temples illuminated, and markets bustle with festive treats.

In 2026, Deepavali falls on a three-day weekend, with Monday as a public holiday, making it a particularly busy time for shopping, traffic, and accommodation. Visitors can also explore connections with other Hindu celebrations, such as Thaipusam, which is celebrated earlier in the year at the Waterfall Hill Temple.

What is Deepavali?

Deepavali is a Hindu festival celebrated across Malaysia, India, and many other countries. The festival spans several days, with the main day involving prayers at home and in temples, lighting oil lamps, exchanging sweets, and visiting friends and family. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and in Penang, it is celebrated with colourful decorations, temple festivals, and public events.

For visitors to Penang, Deepavali provides a chance to observe Hindu traditions, enjoy local food specialities, and see communities preparing their homes and neighbourhoods with lamps, kolam, and floral decorations.

When is Deepavali?

Deepavali follows the Hindu lunar calendar, meaning the dates vary each year.

Deepavali will be celebrated on Sunday 8th November.

In 2026, Deepavali is expected to be celebrated on 8th November, with preparations and celebrations starting a few days prior. Monday following the festival is a public holiday in Penang, giving a three-day weekend, so roads, markets, and shopping areas are busier than usual.

What to expect in George Town and beyond

George Town’s Little India area becomes the focal point of Deepavali festivities. Streets are decorated with hanging lights and colourful motifs, and shops sell sweets, spices, and traditional attire. Temples hold special prayers and ceremonies, often accompanied by music and community events.

Most tourist attractions, cafés, and shopping malls remain open, but expect busier roads, crowded car parks, and more foot traffic in areas with significant Indian Hindu populations. Public transport can also be slightly busier as residents travel to temples and family gatherings.

Outside George Town, areas such as Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, and Balik Pulau see smaller-scale celebrations, which can be more peaceful for visitors seeking a quieter experience.

Food during Deepavali

Deepavali is a great time to enjoy Indian cuisine in Penang. Special sweets, known as murukku, laddu, and kaju katli, are sold in markets and shops, and many Indian restaurants offer festive menus.

Most restaurants, cafés, and hawker centres remain open, though some Indian eateries may close for a day on the main festival date so staff can celebrate with their families. Visiting Little India or popular Indian bakeries in George Town is a reliable way to experience festival treats.

Temples and cultural landmarks

Popular temples to visit include:

• Sri Mahamariamman Temple, George Town – the city’s oldest Hindu temple, beautifully decorated during Deepavali.
• Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Waterfall Hill Temple) – famous for its hillside location and festival celebrations, including colourful illuminations and evening prayers.

Visitors are welcome to observe prayers, provided modest dress is worn and shoes are removed when entering temple compounds.

Dress and cultural awareness

Modest attire is appreciated when visiting temples and attending public ceremonies. Covering shoulders and knees, and removing shoes before entering temple areas, are standard gestures of respect.

While there are no restrictions for non-Hindus during Deepavali, being mindful of religious customs and avoiding loud behaviour in temple areas ensures a positive experience.

Is Deepavali a good time to visit Penang?

For most tourists, Deepavali has minimal impact on visiting Penang. Shops, attractions, and transport operate normally, though streets in Little India and nearby areas will be busier. The festival provides a unique opportunity to experience local Indian culture, sample festive food, and see colourful decorations and lamp displays.

Traffic and accommodation demand can increase around the main day of Deepavali, particularly with the three-day weekend, so planning ahead for hotel bookings is recommended.

Final thoughts

Deepavali in Penang is a vibrant, colourful celebration that is easy to enjoy as a visitor. Streets, temples, and markets are alive with lights, music, and food, offering insight into the local Indian Hindu community. With a little planning, travellers can experience the festival fully while continuing to explore the island as usual.

Once the Deepavali decorations are down, it’s onto the next festivity and Christmas lights go up across Penang (see our Christmas in Penang guide for what to expect).