An Overview of the Adventure
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has rolled out a compelling tour package named "Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia," designed for Indian travellers seeking a curated international experience. These packages bundle flights, accommodation,
meals, and sightseeing, removing the hassle of planning a multi-country trip. Recently, IRCTC announced an 8-day tour departing from Chennai, scheduled from November 17 to 25, 2026. This follows similar successful launches from other cities like Bengaluru and Lucknow, indicating strong demand for these Southeast Asian destinations. The package is built to showcase a mix of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life across both nations.
Breaking Down the ₹1.5 Lakh Cost
The headline figure of around ₹1.5 lakh serves as the starting price for these tours. For the Chennai departure, the cost begins at ₹1,53,750 per person on a double-occupancy basis. The price can vary slightly based on your booking arrangement; single travellers can expect to pay more (around ₹1,75,200), while triple sharing offers a slightly lower price point at ₹1,51,250. There are also reduced prices for children travelling with families. This pricing structure is competitive for an all-inclusive international trip, covering major expenses that would otherwise need to be managed separately.
A Glimpse into the Itinerary
The 8-day journey is packed with iconic sights. Travellers fly from Chennai to Da Nang, Vietnam. The first few days are spent exploring Da Nang's highlights, including the Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, the famous Golden Bridge held by giant hands at Ba Na Hills, and the charming French Village. The tour also includes a visit to the lantern-lit ancient town of Hoi An. From Da Nang, the group flies to Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, to see landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake. A major highlight is the trip to Ha Long Bay, which includes an overnight cruise amidst the stunning limestone islands and caves, with opportunities for kayaking or boating. The final leg of the journey takes travellers to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the world-renowned Angkor Wat temple complex, before flying back to India.
Inclusions: What's Covered in the Package?
A key advantage of the IRCTC package is its all-inclusive nature. The cost covers return airfare in economy class, including the connecting flights within Vietnam (Da Nang to Hanoi). It also includes both Vietnam and Cambodia visa charges, which simplifies the process considerably for travellers. Accommodation is provided in 3-star hotels throughout the trip, along with an overnight stay on the Ha Long Bay cruise. All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are part of the package. All ground transportation via air-conditioned coaches, entrance fees for all monuments and sightseeing spots mentioned in the itinerary, and the services of an English-speaking guide are also included. Furthermore, travel insurance for travellers up to 79 years of age is covered.
Exclusions: What You'll Pay For Separately
While the package is largely comprehensive, travellers should budget for a few out-of-pocket expenses. Costs related to personal needs, such as laundry, telephone calls, and beverages, are not included. Any sightseeing or activities not explicitly mentioned in the official itinerary will also be at the traveller's own expense. It is also customary to tip guides and drivers, and this amount is typically not included in the package price. Finally, any personal shopping or souvenirs are, of course, extra. Travellers should also be aware that while the package includes Tax Collected at Source (TCS), any changes in flight schedules by the airlines are beyond IRCTC's control, and refunds are not typically provided for services missed due to such delays.
How to Book and Key Considerations
Booking for these tours can be done online through the official IRCTC Tourism website (irctctourism.com). It is essential to have a passport with at least six months of validity from the scheduled return date. Given the popularity of these packages, they tend to fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended. The convenience of having visas, flights, and a full itinerary managed by a single, trusted entity like IRCTC is the primary draw. This makes it an excellent option for first-time international travellers, families, and anyone who prefers a structured and secure travel plan over independent exploration.
