Setting a Realistic Budget
First, let's clarify the numbers. A budget of ₹35,000 for seven days primarily covers your expenses within Vietnam—think accommodation, food, local transport, and some activities. This budget generally does not include the cost of round-trip international
flights from India, which can vary widely. With the current exchange rate, ₹35,000 gives you a substantial amount of Vietnamese Dong (VND), making daily expenses quite manageable. This translates to roughly ₹5,000 per day, a solid amount for a backpacker-style trip focused on authentic experiences.
Visa and Flights: The First Hurdles
While flights are an extra cost, you can save significantly by booking 2-3 months in advance. Use flight comparison websites and look for deals from budget airlines that fly to Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). For your visa, the most straightforward option for Indian citizens is the e-visa. It typically costs around $25 (approximately ₹2,100) for a single-entry visa and can be applied for online through the official government portal. This process is generally quick, taking 3-5 working days, but it is wise to apply at least two weeks before your trip.
Accommodation: Sleep for Less
To stay within budget, skip the fancy hotels. Vietnam has a fantastic network of hostels and homestays that are both affordable and a great way to meet other travellers. A bed in a clean, well-rated hostel can cost as little as ₹700–₹1,200 per night. These often include breakfast, saving you more money. Look for accommodation in central locations to save on transport costs. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, staying near the Old Quarter or District 1, respectively, puts you within walking distance of many attractions.
Food: A Street Food Paradise
One of the biggest joys and best money-savers in Vietnam is its street food. You can have a delicious and filling meal for as little as ₹100–₹300. A classic bowl of Pho (noodle soup) or a Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) from a street vendor is not only authentic but incredibly cheap. Aim to eat like the locals do. Avoid tourist-centric restaurants where prices are inflated. A daily food budget of ₹600–₹800 will allow you to eat very well. Don't forget to try the local coffee, which is famous worldwide and costs a fraction of what you'd pay at a cafe back home.
Transportation: Getting Around on a Dime
For travelling between cities like Hanoi and Hue, sleeper buses are a popular and economical choice. They are surprisingly comfortable and save you the cost of one night's accommodation. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Grab are prevalent and offer affordable motorbike taxis (GrabBike) and cars. This is often cheaper and more convenient than traditional taxis. For shorter distances, walking is the best way to explore, as it allows you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. City buses are also extremely cheap, though they can be a bit challenging to navigate without apps like BusMap.
Activities: Free and Low-Cost Fun
You don't need a huge budget to have a good time in Vietnam. Many of the best experiences are free or very cheap. Wandering through Hanoi's Old Quarter, walking around Hoan Kiem Lake, and visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex are all free activities. Many temples and pagodas across the country have no entry fee. Instead of booking expensive tours for everything, consider a mix. For a major attraction like Ha Long Bay, look for budget-friendly day trips or overnight cruises. For other days, simply explore the cities on foot, enjoy the local parks, and visit bustling markets.
