Sustainable Asia Series: November–December 2025 Travel Weather Watch

Sustainable Asia Series: November–December 2025 Travel Weather Watch

As the monsoon season shifts across Asia, travellers planning sustainable escapes need to be extra mindful of timing, tides, and terrain. Here’s our regional weather & travel risk outlook for November–December 2025 — perfect for those exploring eco-conscious journeys and hidden island gems.

🇲🇾 East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Terengganu / Kelantan / Pahang)

🚫 Avoid
The Northeast Monsoon (November–March) brings heavy rain and rough seas along Malaysia’s east coast, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department. Expect strong waves, unpredictable ferry schedules, and limited island access.

💡 As you’re already in Malaysia, consider the west coast instead — destinations like Penang, Langkawi, or Pangkor offer calmer seas and plenty of sustainable community projects.

🇹🇭 Southern Thailand (Islands, Gulf & Andaman)

⚠️ Caution
The Gulf of Thailand faces rough seas in October–November, while the Andaman coast can still experience stormy weather in early November.

💡 If you’re heading here, choose resorts with solid infrastructure and reliable ferry links. Avoid smaller, remote islands until conditions fully settle.

🇱🇰 Sri Lanka (South & West Coasts)

👍 Generally OK for late Nov/Dec
December to April is the prime season for Sri Lanka’s west and south coasts. However, the northeast monsoon may still affect the eastern and northern parts around October–November.

💡 A great pick for your Sustainable Asia Series — focus on eco-lodges, authentic coastal experiences, and community-led tourism along the south or west coast.

🇵🇭 Philippines (Various Islands)

🚫 Avoid (for November)
Typhoon season remains active — even into November. In recent years, Typhoon Kalmaegi (Nov 2025) and Typhoon Rai (Dec 2021) brought major disruption.

💡 While the Philippines offers stunning hidden islands, the risk of storms, cancelled ferries, and flooding makes November a poor travel window — unless you have strong local connections and a flexible plan.

🇮🇩 Indonesia (Many Islands)

🚫 Avoid
Most of Indonesia experiences its wet season from October to March, especially Sumatra and Borneo. This year, forecasts show peak rainfall in November–December 2025.

💡 Some eastern pockets may stay relatively dry, but for your “hidden island” theme, conditions could challenge logistics and sustainability efforts.

🇲🇾 East Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak)

⚠️ Caution
The monsoon season (Nov–Mar) affects both Sabah and Sarawak’s eastern coasts. Travel is still possible — especially if you collaborate with local communities who are used to monsoon rhythms.

💡 Choose sustainable programmes with solid logistical support and inland or west-coast experiences to keep your plans resilient.

🇮🇳 India (Goa / Kerala / Andaman Islands)

⚠️ Mixed
In Goa and Kerala, the monsoon ends around late November, though the risk of post-monsoon cyclones remains.

💡 A December start could work — especially if you focus on responsible travel themes along India’s southern coast or eco-island retreats like the Andamans.

🇻🇳 Vietnam (Central & Coastal)

⚠️ Caution
Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An) often faces typhoons and heavy rain in late year.

💡 For your series, shift focus south — towards Ho Chi Minh City or community-based projects in the Mekong Delta, where conditions are more stable.

🌿 Final Note

November–December is a transitional period across Asia — while some regions calm down, others brace for their heaviest rains. For sustainable travellers, flexibility is key. Pick regions that balance safety with opportunity, and always support local communities rebuilding post-monsoon.