Thaipusam, the Tamil Hindu festival honouring Lord Murugan, falls on Friday 22 January 2027, and it is a public holiday in Penang according to the 2027 federal and state holiday schedule issued by the Prime Minister's Department. It is one of the most intense and photogenic days on the Penang calendar.
Devotees fulfil vows by carrying kavadi, some with body piercings, and make their way up to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, better known as the Waterfall Hilltop Temple. In Penang the festival is also known for the Nattukottai Chettiar silver chariot procession, which travels from George Town up to the Waterfall area, drawing large crowds along the route.
Who is it for? Visitors keen to witness living devotion and culture, photographers and families who don't mind big crowds. Be respectful: ask before photographing devotees up close, never block the path of kavadi bearers and dress modestly.
The chariot route and timings for 2027 had not been announced when we checked. We will add the procession schedule once the organising temples publish it.
Highlights
- Public holiday in Penang on Fri 22 Jan 2027
- Kavadi processions to the Waterfall Hilltop Temple
- Silver chariot procession from George Town
Tips
- Go early in the morning before the heat and the peak crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes you can easily remove for temple areas.
- Carry water and keep valuables secure in the crowds.
Not yet confirmed by the organiser: timeText, chariot procession route, venue address, organiser. We'll update this page when details are published.
How to get there
Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (Waterfall Hilltop) Temple & George Town procession route. Roads near the Waterfall/Botanic Gardens area get very congested; walk in or use Grab drop-offs away from the temple, and expect bus diversions. Open in Google Maps or open in Waze.
More festivals in Penang · What's on in George Town · Penang festive events from Deepavali to Chinese New Year
Information from HR Online – Malaysia 2027 public holidays (schedule issued by the Cabinet Division, PM's Department), OnPenang – Penang festivals 2026–2027 (Thaipusam 22 Jan 2027), VisitPenang festival calendar 2026–2027. Last verified .
Details change — confirm with the organiser before you go. Spotted an error? Tell us.
