An All-In-One Adventure
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has recently launched an eight-day tour package named “Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia” that departs directly from Chennai. This makes Chennai the second city in India, after Bengaluru, to offer this
specific itinerary, opening up a convenient gateway for travellers from Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions. The package is designed to be an all-inclusive experience, covering flights, accommodation, meals, visa processing, and guided tours, removing the usual stress of planning a complex international holiday. The inaugural tour from Chennai is scheduled from November 17 to 25, 2026, offering a comprehensive exploration of both nations' most prized attractions.
The Itinerary: Vietnam's Highlights
The journey begins with a flight from Chennai to Da Nang in Central Vietnam. The itinerary here is packed with iconic sights, including the limestone peaks of the Marble Mountains, the serene My Khe Beach, and Da Nang's famous Dragon Bridge. A key experience is the trip to Ba Na Hills, where travellers can walk across the stunning Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands, and explore the charming French Village. The tour also includes a visit to the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lantern-lit streets and preserved historical architecture. From Da Nang, the group flies to Hanoi, Vietnam's capital. Here, travellers will visit historical landmarks like the Temple of Literature and explore the bustling Old Quarter around Hoan Kiem Lake. A major highlight is the day cruise on the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a spectacular landscape of limestone karsts and islets.
Discovering Cambodia's Treasures
On the sixth day, the tour moves from Vietnam to Cambodia with a flight from Hanoi to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, the former capital of the Khmer Empire and a highlight of any trip to Cambodia. Travellers will have dedicated time to explore the world-renowned Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument on the planet, famous for its breathtaking sunrises and intricate carvings. The itinerary typically includes visits to other key temple complexes within the park, such as Angkor Thom, which houses the enigmatic smiling stone faces of Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm, the 'Tomb Raider' temple famously intertwined with giant tree roots. After exploring Siem Reap's ancient wonders, the tour concludes, and travellers proceed to Siem Reap Airport for their return flight to Chennai.
Package Details and Cost
The IRCTC package aims for a hassle-free experience by bundling most major costs. This includes international and domestic air tickets, all road transfers, accommodation in quality hotels, most meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on many days), the services of a guide, visa fees for both countries, and travel insurance. The pricing structure varies based on occupancy. For the November 2026 tour, the cost per person for double occupancy is approximately ₹1,53,750, while single occupancy is around ₹1,75,200. Special prices are also available for children travelling with adults. It's an organised way to manage budgets, as the upfront cost covers the majority of travel expenses.
Planning Your Trip
For Indian passport holders, visas are required for both Vietnam and Cambodia. A significant advantage of this package is that visa charges and processing are included. Independent travellers should note that while Vietnam offers a 90-day e-visa for Indian citizens, it requires advance online application. The best time to visit both countries is generally during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like cruising Halong Bay or exploring the vast Angkor temple complex. The November timing of the IRCTC tour is perfectly aligned with the beginning of this favorable travel season.
