Vietnam: For the Culturally Curious Foodie
Vietnam offers a compelling mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and arguably some of the best street food in the world. It has become a favourite for Indian travellers because your money goes a long way here. September is part of the shoulder season,
meaning fewer crowds and lower prices. While there might be rain, it often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for exploration. Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and the iconic Ha Long Bay, generally sees more pleasant weather this time of year. For Indian passport holders, Vietnam offers a simple e-Visa process for a fee of around $25 USD.
The Vietnam Budget Breakdown
On a backpacker's budget, you can manage a trip for ₹40,000 to ₹55,000 for about a week, including flights. A more comfortable mid-range trip would cost between ₹65,000 and ₹90,000 per person. Return flights from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai can be found for ₹15,000 to ₹28,000 if booked in advance. Once there, costs are low: a delicious bowl of pho can be as cheap as ₹100, and accommodation in hostels or budget guesthouses is widely available. Overall, Vietnam is often considered 10-20% more affordable than its popular neighbour, Thailand, especially for food and local transport.
Thailand: For Beaches and Bustling City Life
Thailand has long been the go-to first international trip for many Indians, and for good reason. It combines energetic city life in Bangkok with world-class beaches in Phuket and Krabi. The travel infrastructure is well-established, making it easy to get around. Good news for travellers: Thailand has continued its visa-free entry policy for Indian passport holders for stays up to 30 days, which removes a significant planning step and cost. September is in the green season, which means lush landscapes and fewer tourists, though you should expect some rain, particularly on the Andaman coast.
The Thailand Budget Breakdown
A one-week trip to Thailand on a mid-range budget typically costs between ₹55,000 and ₹85,000 per person, including flights. Backpackers can often manage for around ₹40,000. Round-trip flights from India are very competitive, often ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 if booked a couple of months ahead. While daily expenses are low, they can be slightly higher than in Vietnam. A comfortable daily budget for a mid-range traveller, excluding flights, would be around ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per person, while budget travellers can get by on ₹2,500 to ₹3,000.
Nepal: For Mountain Vistas and Spiritual Journeys
For those seeking adventure and spirituality, Nepal is an unbeatable choice right next door. Home to the majestic Himalayas, it offers everything from serene temple visits in Kathmandu to world-class trekking. Best of all, Nepal is arguably the most budget-friendly international destination for Indians. No visa is required for Indian citizens, and you can even travel overland to save on airfare. The currency exchange is also favourable. September marks the end of the monsoon and the beginning of the peak trekking season, offering clear skies and stunning mountain views.
The Nepal Budget Breakdown
A week-long trip to Nepal can be incredibly affordable, with a budget of ₹15,000 to ₹35,000 per person easily achievable for a sightseeing-focused trip. This includes flights from Delhi, which can be found for ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 round-trip. Daily expenses for food and budget guesthouses can be as low as ₹1,000 to ₹1,500. For those interested in trekking, costs will be higher due to permits and gear, but it remains very affordable by global standards. For instance, an Everest Base Camp trek can be done for around ₹35,000–₹60,000 all-in from India.
