Making the ₹35,000 Budget Work
First, let's set a realistic expectation. The ₹35,000 budget is achievable for your on-ground expenses in Vietnam for seven days. This includes your accommodation, food, local transport, and some activities. It does not typically include your return airfare
from India, which can vary significantly. By focusing this budget on in-country spending, you can have a comfortable and exciting trip without constantly worrying about overspending. A budget of roughly ₹5,000 per day is a healthy amount for a backpacker-style trip. This translates to about 1,500,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) per day, which is more than enough for great food, a clean bed, and memorable experiences.
Visa and Flights: Your First Steps
Indian passport holders require a visa for Vietnam, but the process is straightforward with the e-visa system. As of 2026, a single-entry e-visa costs around $25 USD (approximately ₹2,100), and the process takes 3-5 working days. It's best to apply at least 10 days before your trip. For flights, booking 3-4 months in advance is the best strategy. Budget airlines like VietJet and IndiGo often have deals, and a round trip from major Indian cities can cost anywhere from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 if you're flexible with dates. Flying into Hanoi (north) and out of Ho Chi Minh City (south), or vice versa, is a popular and efficient way to see the country.
Accommodation: Sleep for Less
Vietnam's hostel scene is perfect for young, budget-conscious travellers. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, a dorm bed in a clean, well-reviewed hostel can cost as little as ₹500-₹800 per night. These hostels are not just a place to sleep; they are social hubs where you can meet other travellers and book affordable tours for places like Ha Long Bay. For seven nights, you can budget around ₹4,500 for accommodation, leaving plenty of funds for other parts of your trip. Look for hostels in Hanoi's Old Quarter or Ho Chi Minh City's District 1 to be in the heart of the action.
Food: A Feast for Your Senses (and Wallet)
Eating in Vietnam is both a cultural highlight and incredibly affordable. You can eat very well on a budget of ₹1,000–₹1,200 per day. Street food is your best friend here. A delicious bowl of Pho or a Banh Mi sandwich often costs between 30,000 and 60,000 VND (about ₹100–₹200). A daily food budget of 250,000 VND (around ₹850) is realistic if you stick to street stalls and local eateries, allowing you to sample a wide variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
Sample 7-Day Itinerary: Northern Vietnam
Focusing on one region is key for a short, budget trip. Northern Vietnam offers a fantastic mix of city life, culture, and nature. Here’s a possible plan: Days 1-2: Hanoi. Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Enjoy the vibrant street food scene. Days 3-4: Ha Long Bay. Instead of a pricey overnight cruise, consider a budget-friendly day trip or a 2-day, 1-night tour booked through your hostel, which often offers the best value. A day cruise can cost between 1,500,000-3,000,000 VND (₹5,000-₹10,000), so check for budget options. Days 5-6: Ninh Binh. Known as 'Ha Long Bay on land', you can take a bus or train from Hanoi. Rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the stunning karst landscapes and take a boat tour through Tam Coc. Day 7: Return to Hanoi for your flight home. This itinerary minimizes travel time and costs. Overnight buses are a cheap way to travel between cities, with fares often between 350,000-700,000 VND (₹1,200-₹2,400).
Money-Saving Pro-Tips
To stretch your money further, use ride-hailing apps like Grab for getting around cities, as they are cheaper than traditional taxis. Many temples and natural sights are free to enter. Bargain politely at markets. For longer distances, overnight buses or trains are cost-effective and save you the price of one night's accommodation. Always have a local SIM card (around ₹300-₹700) for easy navigation and communication. Drink the local beer, Bia Hoi, which is famously cheap and a great way to socialise.
