An All-Inclusive Southeast Asian Journey
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched an eight-day, seven-night international tour package named "Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia" for travellers starting from Chennai. Following a similar launch from Bengaluru, this package makes
these sought-after destinations more accessible for residents in and around the Tamil Nadu capital. The tour is structured to be an all-inclusive experience, covering everything from flights and accommodation to meals and sightseeing. It’s an ideal option for those who prefer a planned itinerary without the hassle of managing bookings, visas, and local transport in two different countries. The trip is scheduled to run from November 17 to November 25, 2026, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of both nations in a single, seamless journey.
A Detailed Itinerary of Discovery
The journey begins with an overnight flight from Chennai to Da Nang, Vietnam, via Singapore. The Vietnam leg of the tour is packed with highlights. In Da Nang, travellers will explore the Marble Mountains, the famous Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands on Ba Na Hills, and the charming French Village. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An Ancient Town, with its lantern-lined streets, is also included. From Da Nang, the group flies to Hanoi, the nation's capital. Here, the itinerary covers cultural landmarks like the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and a tour of the bustling Old Quarter. No trip to northern Vietnam is complete without experiencing the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. The package includes an overnight cruise on the bay, allowing travellers to soak in the scenery of limestone islands, explore caves, and even go kayaking. After exploring Vietnam, the group flies from Hanoi to Siem Reap in Cambodia to discover its world-renowned temple complexes.
Exploring the Temples of Angkor
The final leg of the tour is dedicated to Cambodia's crowning jewel: the temples of Angkor. Based in Siem Reap, travellers will have dedicated time to visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The itinerary is designed to give tourists a deep appreciation for the history and architectural grandeur of the Khmer empire. The package includes entrance fees and the services of an English-speaking guide to explain the history and significance of these ancient structures. The Cambodia portion provides a powerful contrast to the bustling cities and natural landscapes of Vietnam, focusing on the spiritual and historical heart of the region before the return journey to Chennai via Singapore.
Package Costs and Inclusions
The IRCTC package is designed to be comprehensive, covering most major travel expenses. The cost starts from ₹1,51,250 per person on a triple-sharing basis. For double occupancy, the price is ₹1,53,750, and for single occupancy, it is ₹1,75,200. These costs include round-trip airfare in economy class from Chennai, all domestic flights within Vietnam and the flight from Vietnam to Cambodia. It also covers visa fees for both countries, accommodation in 3-star hotels, all specified meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and travel insurance for passengers up to 79 years of age. All transfers and sightseeing will be done in an air-conditioned deluxe coach, and the package includes the cost of an English-speaking tour guide, entrance tickets, boating rides, and cruise charges as per the itinerary.
What's Not Included and How to Book
While the package is largely all-inclusive, travellers should budget for expenses not covered in the cost. These typically include personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, and any food or drinks ordered outside of the provided meals. It's also customary to tip local guides and drivers, which would be an additional expense. The package pricing is also subject to Tax Collected at Source (TCS), as per government regulations. Travellers interested in this Southeast Asian adventure can find all the details and make bookings through the official IRCTC Tourism website. Given the limited seats and the comprehensive nature of the tour, booking well in advance is highly recommended to secure a spot on this exciting international journey.
