Vietnam Trip Cost From India

Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia, making it a top choice for Indian travelers looking for a budget-friendly yet culturally rich experience. With its proximity and cultural similarities, Vietnam is perfect for trips with friends and family. However, many wonder about the actual costs involved. Let's explore the detailed expenses for a trip to Vietnam from India in 2024.

Currency Exchange and Banking

Currency

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), available in various denominations from 1,000 to 500,000 VND. The exchange rate fluctuates, so check the current rate before traveling. Currently, 1 Indian Rupee (INR) is approximately 300-350 VND. You can exchange INR for VND at airports, banks, and authorized exchange counters. It is advisable to exchange some money both before leaving India and upon arrival in Vietnam.

Banking

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw Vietnamese Dong using your international debit or credit card. Be aware of transaction fees that your home bank may charge. Major banks in Vietnam, including Vietcombank, BIDV, and VietinBank, offer services like currency exchange and international transfers. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets.

Cost Breakdown of Vietnam Trip

Visa Fees

Indian travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. The cost of a single-entry visa is approximately $25 USD (about 2,000 INR). If applying for a visa on arrival, there may be an additional stamping fee of $25-$50 USD (about 2,000 - 4,000 INR), depending on the type of visa.

Flight Tickets from Major Cities

The cost of round-trip flight tickets from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Vietnam (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City) typically ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 INR. Booking in advance or during off-peak seasons can help reduce costs.

Accommodation Cost

Vietnam offers a variety of affordable accommodation options for Indian travelers. Here's a quick guide on what to expect:

• Mid-Range Hotels: Prices for 1 room (2 - 3 pax) range from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per night (750,000 to 1,500,000 VND). Facilities often include pools and on-site restaurants.
• Boutique Hotels: Expect to pay ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per night (900,000 to 1,800,000 VND) for unique charm and personalized service.
• Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Starting at ₹7,000 and going up to ₹15,000 or more per night (2,100,000 to 4,500,000 VND), with top-notch facilities.
• High-End Boutique Hotels: Prices range from ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 per night (2,400,000 to 5,400,000 VND), combining luxury with unique design.

For a 7-day trip, budget travelers can expect to spend around 15,000 - 30,000 INR for 1 room, 7,500 - 15,000 INR for 1 pax while those opting for luxury stays may spend significantly more. Mid-range accommodations are especially recommended for a balance of comfort and affordability.

Transportation Costs

Local transportation costs in Vietnam include:

• Taxis: 15,000-20,000 VND (50-70 INR) per kilometer.
• Public buses: 7,000-10,000 VND (25-35 INR) per ride.
• Motorbike rentals: 100,000-150,000 VND (300-500 INR) per day.
• Domestic flights: 1,500-4,000 INR for one-way tickets between major cities.

Budget around 3,000-5,000 INR for local transportation over a week.

Food and Dining Costs

Vietnam offers a wide range of dining options:

• Street food: 30,000-50,000 VND (100-150 INR) per meal.
• Local restaurants: 100,000-200,000 VND (300-600 INR) per meal.
• Upscale dining: 500,000 VND (1,500 INR) and above per meal.

A budget traveler can expect to spend around 300-600 INR per day on food, totaling 2,100-4,200 INR for a week.

Must-See Attractions and Their Entrance Fees

Many famous attractions in Vietnam are free or cost a small entrance fee. Here are some notable ones:

• Ha Long Bay: 250,000-300,000 VND (800-1,000 INR)
• Trang An: 250,000 VND (800 INR)
• Cu Chi Tunnels: 110,000 VND (350 INR)
• Hoi An Ancient Town: 120,000 VND (400 INR)
• Imperial City of Hue: 150,000 VND (500 INR)

For a 7-day trip, budget around 3,800-4,800 INR for entrance fees to major attractions.

SIM Card and Data Costs

Staying connected while traveling is crucial. Here are the options and approximate costs:

• Local SIM Cards: ₹100 to ₹300 (30,000 to 90,000 VND), available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile shops.
• eSIM: ₹200 to ₹400 (60,000 to 120,000 VND), can be activated online through major providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.
• Data Short-Term Plans: ₹200 to ₹400 (60,000 to 120,000 VND) for 7 days (7-10 GB).
• Portable Wi-Fi: ₹200 to ₹500 (60,000 to 150,000 VND) per day, providing unlimited data access. Portable Wi-Fi routers for rent are provided by rental companies such as Klook and Tep Wireless.

Total cost for SIM card and data plan for a short stay (7 days) ranges from ₹500 to ₹1,200.

Additional Costs

Additional costs might include souvenirs, tips, and other personal expenses. Budget an extra 2,000-3,000 INR for miscellaneous expenses.

Total Estimated Cost

Here's a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Vietnam for an Indian traveler:

• Visa Fees: 2,000-4,000 INR
• Flight Tickets: 20,000-40,000 INR
• Accommodation: 7,500-15,000 INR (depending on preference)
• Transportation: 3,000-5,000 INR
• Food and Dining: 2,100-4,200 INR
• Attractions: 3,800-4,800 INR
• Additional Costs: 2,000-3,000 INR

The total estimated Vietnam trip cost from India may range from 40,400 to 76,000 INR. This estimate provides a general idea of the costs involved, but actual expenses may vary based on individual preferences and travel style.

Vietnam Travel Experiences and Tips

Vietnam offers incredible experiences for Indian travelers, with opportunities to save money while enjoying the best the country has to offer. Here are some tips for an optimized Vietnam trip cost from India:

• Travel Off-Peak: Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid high tourist season prices for accommodation and flights.
• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Opt for hostels or budget hotels which offer comfortable stays at affordable prices. Booking in advance can also help secure better rates.
• Local Street Food: Explore Vietnamese street food markets for delicious and inexpensive meals. This is a great way to experience local culture without overspending.
• Use Local Transportation: Instead of taxis, consider using local buses, trains, or even renting bicycles to explore cities and save on transportation costs.
• Negotiate Prices: When shopping in markets or hiring services like tours or taxis, don't hesitate to negotiate prices. It's a common practice and can often lead to savings.
• Free Attractions and Activities: Take advantage of free attractions such as temples, parks, and local festivals. Many cities offer free walking tours that provide insight into Vietnam's history and culture.
• Currency Exchange: Optimal currency exchange rates can be found at local banks or authorized exchange counters. Avoid exchanging currency at airports for better rates.
• Stay Hydrated Economically: Carry a refillable water bottle and use filtered water stations available in many cities to stay hydrated without purchasing bottled water.

Vietnam 7-Day Tour Package Sample With Prices

Here's an example of a popular 7-day classic tour in Vietnam offered by Vietnam-tour.in, which many Indian travelers have chosen. The tour starts from Ho Chi Minh City and includes visits to Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and concludes in Hanoi for the return flight to India.

• Day 1: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City. After clearing customs and immigration, transfer to a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City to relax and unwind.
• Day 2 (B, L): Visit attractions in Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnels in the countryside.
• Day 3 (B, L): Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta.
• Day 4 (B): Take a domestic flight to Hanoi and freely explore this ancient town.
• Day 5 (B, L): Take a day trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An eco-tourism site in Ninh Binh.
• Day 6 (B, L): Visit Halong Bay within a day by a short cruise.
• Day 7 (B): Explore Hanoi and fly back home.