The Golden Ticket: A Visa Revolution
For years, the visa process was a minor but persistent hurdle for Indians dreaming of a Vietnamese holiday. That all changed in August 2023 when Vietnam rolled out a remarkably tourist-friendly e-visa policy. Indian passport holders can now apply online
for an e-visa that grants them a 90-day stay with multiple entries. This is a massive upgrade from the previous 30-day, single-entry system. The new process is entirely digital, takes just a few days to process, and costs around $25 USD. This simplification has single-handedly removed the primary barrier to entry, placing Vietnam firmly on the map for spontaneous weekend getaways and extended backpacking trips alike. Travel portals have reported a surge of over 40% in search queries for Vietnam from India since the policy was announced, signalling a massive shift in travel preferences.
More Than Just Easy Access
While the easy visa is the trigger, the appeal of Vietnam runs much deeper. First and foremost is the incredible value for money. The Indian Rupee enjoys a strong exchange rate against the Vietnamese Dong (roughly 1 INR to 295 VND), making it an exceptionally affordable destination. A delicious bowl of Phở might cost you less than ₹150, and comfortable accommodation is available for a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe or even other parts of Southeast Asia. Beyond the budget, Vietnam offers a staggering diversity of experiences. You can cruise through emerald waters in Ha Long Bay, wander through the lantern-lit ancient town of Hoi An, explore the chaotic energy of Ho Chi Minh City, or trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa. It’s a country where ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty coexist seamlessly.
Planning Your First Vietnamese Adventure
With a 90-day visa, you have the luxury of time, but for a first-timer, a 10-day itinerary offers a perfect taste. A classic route starts in the north. Fly into Hanoi, the charming capital, and spend two days exploring its Old Quarter and tasting its famous street food. From there, take an overnight cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. Next, fly from Hanoi to Da Nang in Central Vietnam. Use it as a base to explore the picturesque ancient town of Hoi An, famous for its tailors and lanterns, and the imperial history of Hue. Finally, fly down to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south to witness its colonial architecture, visit the War Remnants Museum, and take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This North-to-South journey provides a comprehensive look at the country's varied landscapes and history.
A Feast for Every Palate
Vietnamese cuisine is a major draw, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and balanced flavours. For non-vegetarians, the options are endless, from the iconic Phở (noodle soup) to Bánh Mì (a flavour-packed sandwich) and Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles). But vegetarians need not worry. Thanks to a strong Buddhist influence, vegetarian food ('Chay' in Vietnamese) is widely available. Look for 'Quán Chay' signs, which indicate a vegetarian restaurant. Dishes like vegetarian Phở, fresh spring rolls (Gỏi Cuốn) with tofu, and stir-fried morning glory with garlic are delicious staples. The coffee culture is also legendary. Don’t leave without trying Cà Phê Sữa Đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) or the unique Cà Phê Trứng (egg coffee), a sweet, creamy concoction that tastes more like dessert.
Budgeting Your Trip From India
The affordability factor is a huge plus. Return flights from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City can be found for between ₹20,000 and ₹30,000 if booked in advance, with direct flights from carriers like VietJet and Vistara making the journey quicker. Once there, your daily expenses can be managed easily. Budget travellers can get by on ₹2,500–₹3,500 per day, covering a dorm bed, street food, and local transport. A more comfortable mid-range budget of ₹5,000–₹7,000 per day will get you a private room in a good hotel, meals at restaurants, and a few tours. This means a 10-day trip can be comfortably done for under ₹1 lakh, including flights, making it one of the best-value international destinations for Indians right now.
