The ₹35,000 Challenge: Is It Possible?
A week-long international trip for ₹35,000 might sound ambitious, but in Vietnam, it's entirely achievable with smart planning. This budget requires a focus on value, prioritising local experiences over luxury comforts. The key is to travel during the
shoulder seasons (September-November or March-April) and book flights well in advance. Your spending will be primarily split between flights (the largest chunk), accommodation, food, and activities. By eating local street food, staying in hostels or budget guesthouses, and using public transport, you can make this budget work. A rough breakdown would be: flights (₹14,000), visa (₹2,100), accommodation (₹6,000), and daily expenses for food and transport (₹12,900).
Flights and Visas: Securing the Essentials
Your biggest expense will be flights, but direct routes from major Indian cities to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City on budget airlines like VietJet Air have made travel much more affordable. Look out for promotional fares, which can be as low as ₹12,000-₹15,000 for a round trip if booked a few months ahead. For Indian citizens, obtaining a visa is straightforward with the e-visa system. As of 2026, a single-entry e-visa costs approximately USD 25 (around ₹2,100). You can apply on the official government portal and receive it within 3-5 business days, though it's wise to apply at least 10 days before your trip.
A Smart 7-Day Itinerary: Stick to One Region
To maximise your time and minimise travel costs, it's best to stick to one region for a seven-day trip. North Vietnam is an excellent choice for first-timers. A classic northern itinerary includes: Days 1-2 in Hanoi to explore the chaotic charm of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and indulge in street food. Day 3 involves a bus or shuttle to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise, which is a must-do experience. Days 4-5 are spent cruising through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. On Day 6, you return to Hanoi for last-minute souvenir shopping or to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. On Day 7, you fly back home. This plan limits expensive domestic flights and long travel days.
Accommodation: Clean, Cheap, and Central
Vietnam's budget accommodation is a backpacker's dream. Hostels in cities like Hanoi offer dorm beds for as little as ₹600-₹1,000 per night. These are not just cheap but are also great places to meet fellow travellers. If you prefer privacy, budget guesthouses or a private room in a hostel can be found for ₹1,200-₹1,800 per night. Look for places in Hanoi's Old Quarter to be close to the action and most street food spots. Booking through apps like Agoda or Booking.com can help you find deals and read recent reviews.
Food and Transport: The Smartest Ways to Save
Eating and getting around like a local is where you'll save the most. Vietnamese street food is legendary, delicious, and incredibly cheap. A bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich often costs less than ₹150. For transport within cities, use ride-hailing apps like Grab for both car and motorbike taxis; the fares are fixed and much cheaper than traditional taxis. For longer distances, like from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, tourist-friendly buses are a comfortable and affordable option. A daily budget of ₹1,500-₹1,800 for food and local transport is very realistic.
Essential Tricks for a Smooth Trip
A few small hacks can make a big difference. First, get a local SIM card at the airport for cheap data, which is essential for using maps and Grab. Second, while ATMs are common, Vietnam is largely a cash economy, especially for street vendors and small shops, so withdraw larger amounts to avoid multiple transaction fees. Third, learn to bargain politely at markets, but don't haggle for food or in stores with fixed prices. Finally, always drink bottled water and choose busy street food stalls, as the high turnover means fresher ingredients.
