A New Gateway to Indochina
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is expanding its international travel offerings with the "Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia" tour package, now available for travellers starting from Chennai. Following a successful launch from Bengaluru,
this move makes two of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations more accessible to residents of Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions. The package is designed as a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, bundling flights, accommodation, meals, and guided tours, allowing travellers to focus on the experience rather than logistics. This positions IRCTC not just as a rail ticketing giant, but as a comprehensive travel solutions provider.
The Itinerary: From Temples to Golden Bridges
The seven-night, eight-day journey, scheduled from November 17 to 25, 2026, is packed with iconic sights. The tour begins with a flight from Chennai to Da Nang in Vietnam. In Vietnam, travellers will explore the Marble Mountains, the famous Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands in the Ba Na Hills, and the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town. From there, the itinerary moves to Hanoi, the nation's capital, to visit landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake. A major highlight is an overnight cruise on the stunning Ha Long Bay, where guests can kayak or take a bamboo boat among the limestone karsts. The final leg of the journey takes the group to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cost and What's Included
The package pricing is structured to be comprehensive, starting from approximately ₹1.5 lakh per person. The cost for double occupancy is ₹1,53,750 per person, while single occupancy is priced at ₹1,75,200. For families, a child with an extra bed costs ₹1,31,500. These costs cover a wide range of services, making it a convenient option for those who prefer pre-planned travel. Inclusions cover return airfare in economy class, three-star hotel accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and all transfers and sightseeing in an air-conditioned coach. Crucially, the package also includes visa fees for both Vietnam and Cambodia, travel insurance for passengers up to age 79, and the services of an English-speaking guide at all destinations. All entrance tickets for monuments, boat rides, and cable cars as per the itinerary are also part of the deal.
Know Before You Book
While the package is largely all-inclusive, prospective travellers should be aware of a few exclusions. Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and tips, are not covered. Any optional tours or activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary will also incur additional charges. It's also important to note that IRCTC has stated that flight schedules are subject to change, and refunds will not be provided for services missed due to airline delays or cancellations. To book, travellers will need a passport with at least six months of validity from the date of return to India and a clear, scanned copy of recent photographs meeting visa specifications.
How to Secure Your Spot
Booking this Southeast Asian adventure is straightforward. Interested individuals can visit the official IRCTC Tourism website, www.irctctourism.com. On the website, navigate to the 'Holidays' section and then to 'Packages,' where you can search for international air tour packages. The "Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia" ex-Chennai tour will be listed with its full itinerary, inclusions, and booking options. The booking process involves selecting the package, providing passenger details, and making a secure online payment. For specific queries or counter bookings, travellers can also contact IRCTC's regional offices.
