The ₹35,000 Budget Breakdown
The key to this budget is planning and making smart choices. The ₹35,000 figure per person is tight but achievable. The largest expense will be your flights, which can be secured for as low as ₹15,000-₹18,000 for a round trip if you book 2-3 months in advance
on budget airlines. September and October are often cheaper months to fly. Your visa will cost around ₹2,100 for an e-Visa. This leaves approximately ₹15,000 for your 5 nights in Vietnam. Here is how it breaks down: Accommodation in hostels can be found for ₹500-₹800 per night, totaling around ₹4,000 for five nights. This leaves you with a daily budget of about ₹2,200 for food, transport, and activities, which is more than enough to experience the country authentically.
Focus on One Region: A Sample Northern Itinerary
With only five days, focusing on a single region is crucial to avoid wasting time and money on internal travel. Northern Vietnam, with its capital Hanoi, is an excellent choice for a short trip. You can fly directly into Hanoi from major Indian cities. Spend your first two days exploring the city's charming Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and various temples. A full day can be dedicated to a budget-friendly day tour to Ninh Binh, often called 'Ha Long Bay on Land', for its stunning karst landscapes and river caves. These tours are affordable and cover transport, food, and entrance fees, fitting well within your daily allowance.
Day 1-2: Arrival and Exploring Hanoi
After landing in Hanoi, take a bus or a pre-booked budget taxi to the Old Quarter. Check into your hostel and dive straight into the vibrant street life. For the next two days, your main expenses will be food and minimal entrance fees. A bowl of delicious Pho costs between ₹100 and ₹250. You can eat well for under ₹800 a day by sticking to street food and local eateries. Most of Hanoi's key attractions, like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake, have small entry fees or are free to visit. Getting around is cheap using ride-hailing apps for short trips or simply by walking. Daily spend should be around ₹1,500.
Day 3-4: Day Trips to Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh
A day trip is the most budget-conscious way to see Vietnam's famous landscapes. While an overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay might stretch the budget, numerous companies offer all-inclusive day tours for ₹3,000-₹5,000. These typically include the bus journey from Hanoi, a boat cruise through the limestone karsts, kayaking, and lunch. An even more affordable alternative is a day trip to Ninh Binh, with similar inclusions, often costing slightly less. Booking these tours from local agents in Hanoi upon arrival can sometimes yield better prices than booking online in advance. These two days will be your most expensive, but they are essential for the full Vietnamese experience.
Day 5: Last-Minute Souvenirs and Departure
Your last day can be spent revisiting your favourite spots in Hanoi, enjoying one last Vietnamese coffee, and shopping for souvenirs at the Dong Xuan Market. Keep your spending in check, as this is where budgets can often unravel. Grab a final Banh Mi sandwich for lunch and head to the airport. By being mindful of your daily spending and prioritising experiences over expensive souvenirs or luxury dining, you'll find that your budget has held up well. This blueprint focuses on experiencing the culture and natural beauty of Vietnam without the hefty price tag.
