Thaipusam 2027 falls on Friday, 22 January 2027, and Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur is its best-known gathering. Malaysia’s visa exemption for Indian citizens has been reported to run until 31 December 2026, so check the current entry rules before booking a January trip. Air India and IndiGo are among the airlines that have flown to Kuala Lumpur from India.
Updated November 2026 · HappyFares
Thaipusam is a Tamil Hindu festival honouring Lord Murugan, and for many Indian families a trip to Batu Caves is a pilgrimage as much as a holiday. Early planning matters because the days around the festival are busy.
When is Thaipusam in 2027?
Thaipusam in 2027 falls on Friday, 22 January. Two calendars agree: Drik Panchang lists it on that date, and the Malaysian public holiday listing shows 22 January 2027 as a holiday in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and several other states. Thaipusam follows the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai, so the date moves each year within the Gregorian calendar, typically between mid-January and mid-February.
Observances at Batu Caves can begin before the main day, so check the announced schedule and consider arriving early rather than on the day itself.
Do Indian passport holders need a visa for Malaysia?
Malaysia introduced a visa exemption for Indian citizens from December 2023 that allows stays of up to 30 days for tourism, social, business or transit purposes. Media reports say it has been extended through 31 December 2026. A trip on 22 January 2027 falls after that date.
We could not find an official confirmation that the exemption continues into 2027. Before you book, check the Immigration Department of Malaysia or the Malaysian High Commission in India. Travellers have also been required to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online before arrival, so check that requirement on the official portal.
Which airlines fly from India to Kuala Lumpur?
Air India announced a daily nonstop service between Delhi and Kuala Lumpur, which began on 15 September 2024. IndiGo lists Kuala Lumpur flights from Chennai on its international pages. Several Malaysian and other foreign airlines also fly the route, though routes and frequencies change by season.
Because Thaipusam week is popular, check schedules for your dates on the airline’s own site and compare options across carriers. Nonstop flights from south India are usually shorter than from the north, and connecting itineraries can be an option if your city has no direct service.
How early should you book?
Fares to a festival destination tend to rise as the date approaches, and the days just before a public holiday are often in demand. Booking a few months ahead usually gives you more choice of timings. A price alert can help you watch the fare without checking daily.
Plan to land a day or two before 22 January. Roads near Batu Caves can be crowded on the festival day, and your hotel in Kuala Lumpur may have its own limits on check-in times. We do not arrange hotels or ground transport, so arrange those separately.
Choosing the length of your trip
A long weekend can work if you fly nonstop, but a longer stay gives you room for delays and rest. Thaipusam falls on a Friday in 2027, so a trip from the Thursday evening to the following Monday lets you attend the festival and still have a quiet day or two in Kuala Lumpur.
If you are travelling with children or elderly family members, build in extra rest time. The festival day is long, hot and crowded, and a flexible plan is easier to manage than a packed one. Ask the airline directly if anyone in your group needs mobility assistance at the airport.
Also check your passport. Many countries expect it to be valid for some months beyond your arrival date, so confirm Malaysia’s requirement on the official immigration site before you book.
What should you know before visiting Batu Caves?
- Dress modestly. It is a working Hindu temple site, and respectful clothing is expected.
- Expect crowds. Thaipusam brings very large numbers of devotees, so allow extra travel time.
- Carry water and sun protection. It is warm and humid in Kuala Lumpur at any time of year.
- Keep your passport and arrival documents handy. You may be asked to show them.
Did you know? Thaipusam is a public holiday in several Malaysian states, so many local offices and schools close that day.
Common Questions
What date is Thaipusam in 2027?
Friday, 22 January 2027, according to the Drik Panchang calendar and Malaysian public holiday listings.
Is Thaipusam a public holiday in Malaysia?
Yes, in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and several other states. It is not a holiday in every state.
Do Indians need a visa for Malaysia in January 2027?
The exemption has been reported to run until 31 December 2026. Confirm the position for 2027 with the Immigration Department of Malaysia before you buy a ticket.
How long is the flight from India to Kuala Lumpur?
It depends on your city and whether the flight is nonstop. Check the duration shown for your chosen flight, as schedules vary.
Can I fly directly from Delhi?
Air India announced a daily Delhi to Kuala Lumpur nonstop from September 2024. Check that it is still scheduled for your dates.
Where is Batu Caves?
It is on the northern edge of Kuala Lumpur, in Selangor. Check the latest transport options with local authorities before the festival.
Planning a Kuala Lumpur trip for January? Search flights on HappyFares, set a price alert for your dates, and ask Meera, our AI assistant, to help compare options. Travel insurance is available at checkout.
Entry rules, schedules and fees change; please verify current specifics with the airline, the Malaysian immigration authorities or the airport before you travel.
