Northern pig-tailed macaque is a medium-sized primate, with a stocky body structure and greyish-brown fur. The face lacks hair and is a darker shade of brown. This animal is distinguishable by its golden crown, with a crest of upright hair in the center extending backwards. The tail is relatively short and the sexual dimorphism is minimal, with males being slightly larger than females. Young ones possess lighter colored fur that darkens with age.