Making the ₹35,000 Budget Work
First, it's essential to clarify what ₹35,000 can realistically cover. This budget is best viewed as your 'in-country' expense for five days, covering accommodation, food, local transport, and activities once you arrive in Vietnam. Round-trip flights
from India can vary drastically, from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 or more, depending on how far in advance you book and which airline you choose. Airlines like VietJet Air often have sales that can make the trip more affordable. For the ground expenses, a smart allocation would be: Accommodation (4 nights in hostels): ₹6,000, Food (street food and local eateries): ₹7,500, Local Transport (including a train to Da Nang): ₹8,000, Activities & Entry Fees: ₹8,000, Miscellaneous (visa, SIM card, etc.): ₹5,500.
Pre-Trip Essentials: Visa and Flights
Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam. The most convenient option is the e-visa, which you can apply for online through the official government portal. A single-entry e-visa typically costs around $25 USD (approximately ₹2,100), and it is advisable to apply at least a week before your departure. When booking flights, look for direct routes to Hanoi (HAN) from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata. Booking a few months in advance is the best way to secure lower fares. Upon arrival, it's best to exchange a small amount of USD for Vietnamese Dong (VND) at the airport for immediate expenses and then exchange more in the city for better rates.
Days 1-2: Historic Hanoi
Spend your first two days soaking in the atmosphere of Vietnam’s capital. Stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find plenty of budget-friendly hostels for around ₹700-₹1,200 per night. Most of Hanoi's key attractions are within walking distance here. Explore the bustling streets, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, and cross the iconic red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex (viewed from the outside). For food, Hanoi is a street food paradise. A delicious bowl of Pho or a Banh Mi sandwich will only cost you between ₹100 and ₹200. You can easily eat well for under ₹1,500 a day.
Getting from Hanoi to Da Nang
To travel between Hanoi and Da Nang, you have two main budget-friendly options. The fastest is a domestic flight, which takes about an hour and can sometimes be found for as low as ₹3,000 if booked in advance. However, the more scenic and classic backpacker route is the overnight sleeper train. The journey takes about 16-18 hours, which saves you a night's accommodation cost. A soft sleeper berth in a 4-berth or 6-berth cabin costs between ₹4,000 and ₹5,500. This allows you to wake up to beautiful coastal and rural views as you approach Da Nang.
Days 3-4: Coastal Da Nang & Hoi An
In Da Nang, base yourself near My Khe Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the region. Hostels here are also very affordable, with dorm beds available for under ₹1,000 a night. Spend a day exploring the city, visiting the Marble Mountains and the famous Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water on weekend nights. On your second day, rent a scooter (around ₹500 per day) for a short trip to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site just 30 minutes away. Get lost in its lantern-lit streets, explore the old houses, and enjoy the unique local cuisine. Seafood in Da Nang is a must-try and surprisingly affordable at local restaurants.
Day 5 & Money-Saving Tips
On your final day, enjoy a final Vietnamese coffee before heading to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your flight back to India. To make your budget stretch further, always opt for street food over tourist-centric restaurants. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for getting around cities as they are cheaper than traditional taxis. Many attractions like beaches and walking through old quarters are free. Always carry a mix of cash and cards, but be aware that smaller establishments and street vendors will only accept cash.
