Flights: Scoring the Best Deals
The biggest expense for any international trip is usually the airfare, but flying to Vietnam from India has become increasingly affordable. Airlines like VietJet Air and IndiGo offer direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata to Hanoi
and Ho Chi Minh City. With some smart planning, you can snag return tickets for as low as ₹14,000–₹16,000. The key is to book at least two to three months in advance and keep an eye out for airline sales. Travelling during the shoulder seasons (September–November or March–April) can also result in cheaper fares compared to the peak tourist rush.
Visa: A Simple and Affordable Step
Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam, but the process is straightforward and budget-friendly. You can apply for an e-visa through the official government portal. The standard fee for a single-entry tourist e-visa is approximately $25 USD, which translates to about ₹2,100. The application is entirely online, requiring a scan of your passport, a digital photograph, and a few basic details about your trip. Processing usually takes three to five business days, but it's wise to apply at least ten days before your departure to avoid any last-minute stress.
Accommodation: Comfort on a Shoestring
Vietnam is a backpacker's paradise, which means there is no shortage of clean, safe, and incredibly cheap places to stay. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find dorm beds in highly-rated hostels for just ₹500–₹800 per night. These hostels are often located in central areas like Hanoi's Old Quarter, putting you right in the heart of the action. They also offer a great way to meet other travellers. If you prefer more privacy, budget guesthouses and private rooms in hostels are also available for a slightly higher but still very reasonable price. For a seven-day trip, your total accommodation cost can easily be kept under ₹4,000.
Food: A Feast for Your Senses and Wallet
The food in Vietnam is a major highlight, and thankfully, it's also exceptionally cheap. You can eat like royalty on a daily budget of ₹800–₹1,000. The best way to do this is by embracing the vibrant street food culture. A steaming bowl of Phở (noodle soup) or a delicious Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) from a street vendor will rarely cost you more than ₹150–₹200. Look for where the locals are eating—it's almost always a sign of the best quality and prices. Even meals in simple local restaurants are very affordable, allowing you to sample a wide variety of dishes without worry.
Activities and Getting Around
Many of Vietnam's best experiences are either free or very cheap. Wandering through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter or strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake costs nothing. For longer distances within cities, ride-hailing apps like Grab offer bike-taxis that are incredibly efficient and cost-effective. For a signature Vietnamese experience like a trip to Ha Long Bay, budget-friendly day tours from Hanoi are available for around ₹3,000–₹4,000. These tours typically include transport, a boat cruise, lunch, and sometimes even kayaking, offering fantastic value.
Sample 7-Day Budget Breakdown
So, how does it all add up to under ₹35,000? Here’s a realistic breakdown for a one-week trip, focusing on North Vietnam. Return Flights: ₹15,000 E-Visa: ₹2,100 Accommodation (6 nights @ ₹600/night): ₹3,600 Food & Drinks (7 days @ ₹900/day): ₹6,300 Activities (Ha Long Bay day tour + city sights): ₹4,000 Local Transport (Grab, airport bus): ₹2,000 * Miscellaneous Buffer: ₹2,000 Grand Total: ₹35,000 This budget is tight but entirely achievable. It focuses on essential travel experiences and requires smart planning, especially for flights. It excludes non-essential expenses like shopping, fine dining, and extensive tours.
