Thaipusam  (January/ February)   

On this day, Hindus pay homage to Lord Muruga and celebrations normally stretch over two to three days with drums and music played throughout the day and sometimes into the night.

 In Malaysia and Singapore, you will see thousands of devotees (mainly Indians) at Hindu temples. A prominent feature of the festival is the carrying of kavadis after sunset on the eve of Thaipusam. This ritual is done as a form of penance or to keep a promise for a prayer fulfilled. The kavadis are wooden or steel structures gaily decorated with coloured paper, fragrant flowers and fresh fruits. Some devotees pierce their cheeks, tongues, bodies or foreheads with metal needles or hooks while in a trance. It’s an incredible sight which you have to see to believe. Best place to see this is at Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur; Penang; Sungai Petani and Ipoh. It is probably the most popular festival - enjoyed by tourists and devotees.