Detailed Vietnam Trip Cost From India: Budgeting Your 2024 Holiday

Planning a trip to Vietnam from India? You’re in for a treat! Vietnam stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable travel destinations, making it a top pick for Indian travelers seeking memorable experiences with friends and family, thanks to its close proximity and vibrant culture. But the big question remains: exactly how much does a trip to Vietnam cost from India?

Understanding the potential expenses, covering key root attributes like the Amount, Currency, Origin (India), Destination (Vietnam), and package Inclusions, is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide will delve into the detailed Vietnam trip cost from India, breaking down every expense category. We’ll help you calculate your potential Vietnam travel budget from India, leveraging insights and sample packages to ensure you get the best value.

Understanding Currency Exchange and Banking in Vietnam for Indian Travelers

Managing your money effectively is crucial for budgeting your trip. Here’s what Indian travelers need to know about currency and banking in Vietnam.

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) and Exchange Rates

The official currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). You’ll encounter banknotes in various denominations, commonly ranging from 1,000 VND to 500,000 VND.

The INR to VND exchange rate fluctuates. It’s vital to check the current rate before your trip. As a general guideline (check for real-time rates before traveling), 1 Indian Rupee (INR) is approximately 300-350 VND in terms of amount.

Indian visitors can easily exchange Indian Rupees (INR) for Vietnamese Dong (VND) at airports (like Noi Bai in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City), banks, and authorized money exchange counters throughout Vietnam. It’s wise to exchange a small amount before leaving India and more upon arrival in Vietnam for immediate needs. For more comprehensive advice, see our guide on money matters, currency, payments, and tipping in Vietnam.

Banking Services: ATMs, Cards, and Transfers

ATMs are readily available in major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) and popular tourist areas. You can withdraw VND using your international debit or credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Remember to inform your home bank about your travel plans and be aware of potential international transaction fees they might charge, which can add to your overall Vietnam trip cost.

Prominent banks in Vietnam, such as Vietcombank, BIDV, and VietinBank, offer services like currency exchange and international money transfers. Typical banking hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday, though some branches might have Saturday morning hours. Vietnam also boasts a growing mobile banking scene, with apps like Coc Coc Map providing location info, though less common for short tourist trips unless using local services extensively.

While Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in larger hotels (like Melia Hanoi or New World Saigon Hotel), established restaurants, and shopping malls (like Trang Tien Plaza), carrying cash (VND) is essential. Cash is the preferred payment method in smaller towns, local markets (like Ben Thanh Market or Dong Xuan Market), street food stalls, and for smaller purchases.

Detailed Breakdown: Estimating Your Vietnam Trip Cost from India

Let’s break down the typical expenses category by category to help you budget effectively for your trip cost from India to Vietnam.

1. Vietnam Visa Fees for Indian Citizens

Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity beyond your tour dates. The cost for a standard single-entry Vietnam e-visa for Indian is approximately $25 USD (around 2,000 INR). If you opt for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) – available for specific entry points like Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and requiring a pre-approved letter – you’ll pay the visa letter fee online beforehand (takes 2-3 business days) and an additional stamping fee of $25-$50 USD (approx. 2,000 – 4,000 INR) upon arrival, depending on the visa type (single/multiple entry, duration). This visa fee is a fixed part of your Vietnam trip cost from India.

Pro Tip: Applying for the e-visa online in advance is often simpler and clearer regarding costs, allowing for a stay of up to thirty days.

2. Flight Tickets: India to Vietnam Cost

The cost of round-trip flight tickets from India to Vietnam is a significant part of your budget. Flights depart from major Indian cities like Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Kolkata (CCU), and Bangalore (BLR) to Vietnam’s main international airports: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.

Expect prices to typically range from 20,000 to 40,000 INR per person. Airlines like VietJet Air, Indigo, and Vietnam Airlines offer direct flights, potentially impacting cost and travel time (direct flights take around five to six hours, connecting flights 12-13 hours). This forms a core component of the Vietnam trip cost from India.

To secure lower fares and reduce your Vietnam trip cost from India, book flights well in advance (2-3 months minimum) and consider traveling during the off-peak or shoulder seasons (e.g., April-May or September-October). Remember, hassle-free connectivity from India is a major advantage.

3. Accommodation Costs in Vietnam (INR Estimates)

Vietnam offers a wide spectrum of accommodation, catering to all budgets. Here’s a general idea of nightly costs in INR for Indian travelers:

Budget-Friendly & Mid-Range Stays:

• Hostels: ₹500 – ₹1,500 per dorm bed. Great for solo travelers or backpackers.
• Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per room. Basic, clean, and functional.
• Mid-Range Hotels (3-star): Prices for 1 room (suitable for 2-3 people) typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per night (approx. 750,000 to 1,500,000 VND). These often include better amenities like pools and on-site restaurants. Examples might include properties like Ibis Saigon South or similar.
• Boutique Hotels: Expect to pay ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per night (approx. 900,000 to 1,800,000 VND) for properties offering unique character and more personalized service, like the Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa.

Luxury Accommodations:

• Luxury Hotels and Resorts (4-5 star): Costs start from ₹7,000 and can exceed ₹15,000 per night (approx. 2,100,000 to 4,500,000+ VND), offering premium facilities, services, and locations. Examples include Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort.
• High-End Boutique Hotels: Prices generally range from ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 per night (approx. 2,400,000 to 5,400,000 VND), blending luxury with distinct design elements, like The Oriental Jade Hotel.

Estimate for a 7-day Trip (Accommodation Only):

• Budget Traveler (Hostel/Budget Hotel): ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 per person.
• Mid-Range Traveler (sharing a room): ₹8,750 – ₹17,500 per person (based on ₹2,500-₹5,000/night room shared by 2).
• Luxury Traveler: ₹24,500+ per person.

Mid-range options offer a great balance of comfort and value, significantly impacting the overall affordability of your Vietnam trip cost from India.

4. Local Transportation Costs within Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is relatively inexpensive. Here are common modes and estimated costs:

• Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps (e.g., Grab, Gojek): Metered taxis cost around 15,000-20,000 VND (₹50-₹70) per kilometer. Apps like Grab or Gojek (accessible via recommended apps) are often slightly cheaper and more convenient. Mai Linh Taxi is another app alternative.
• Public Buses: Very cheap, around 7,000-10,000 VND (₹25-₹35) per ride within cities, but can be challenging for tourists due to language barriers and routes.
• Motorbike Rentals: Popular for exploring locally, costing 100,000-150,000 VND (₹300-₹500) per day (excluding fuel). Ensure you have the appropriate International Driving Permit (IDP) in English and always wear a helmet.
• Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): Negotiate the price beforehand; good for short distances.
• Cyclos: Primarily found in tourist areas (like Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Hue); agree on the price before starting the ride. More of an experience than efficient transport.
• Domestic Flights: For longer distances (e.g., Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City), flights are efficient. One-way tickets cost between ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 INR if booked in advance (Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways). This internal flight cost needs factoring into the total budget.
• Overnight Trains/Buses: A budget-friendly way to travel between cities like Hanoi and Da Nang/Hue, offering sleeper options.

For a typical 7-day trip involving city exploration and maybe one domestic flight or train journey, budget around ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 INR per person for local transportation. Understanding these options is key, and you can find more details in our comprehensive transportation guide for Indian tourists in Vietnam.

5. Food and Dining Costs in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is delicious and incredibly affordable. Dining costs vary:

• Street Food: A must-try! Enjoy iconic dishes like Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (sandwich), Bun Cha (grilled meat noodles), Goi Cuon (spring rolls), Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes) for 30,000-50,000 VND (₹100-₹150) per meal.
• Local Restaurants (Quan Com Binh Dan): Simple, hearty meals cost around 100,000-200,000 VND (₹300-₹600) per person.
• Mid-Range/Tourist Restaurants: Expect to pay ₹600 – ₹1,200 per person. Look for places like Morning Glory in Hoi An or Cha Ca La Vong in Hanoi.
• Upscale Dining: Fine dining experiences (e.g., The Deck Saigon) start from 500,000 VND (₹1,500) and can go much higher per person.
• Beverages: Local beer (Bia Hoi) is very cheap (₹30-50), while bottled water, soft drinks, and Vietnamese Coffee are also inexpensive (₹30-₹100).
• Indian Food Options: For those craving familiar flavors, restaurants like Tandoor Restaurant (HCMC), Maharaja Indian Restaurant (Da Nang), or Namaste Hanoi offer meals, potentially at a mid-range to higher cost compared to local food. Some tour operators offer packages like the Maharaj Tour specifically catering to this need.

A budget-conscious traveler eating mostly street food and local restaurants can manage on ₹500-₹800 INR per day for food. A mid-range budget might be ₹1,000-₹1,500 per day. For a 7-day trip, allocate roughly ₹3,500 – ₹10,500 INR per person for food, depending on your dining preferences and choice of cuisine type.

6. Must-See Attractions and Their Entrance Fees

While wandering streets and soaking in the atmosphere is free, many key attractions have entrance fees. Factor these into your Vietnam trip cost:

• Ha Long Bay: Day cruises or overnight cruises vary significantly in price. Entrance fee for the bay itself is around 290,000 VND (₹900-₹1000), but cruise packages (often including food, activities like kayaking, transport) range from ₹3,000 (day trip) to ₹8,000+ (overnight). This is a major cost driver if included.
• Trang An Landscape Complex (Ninh Binh): Boat tour costs around 250,000 VND (₹800) per person.
• Cu Chi Tunnels (near Ho Chi Minh City): Entrance fee is about 110,000 VND (₹350). Tour packages often include transport.
• Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance ticket costs 120,000 VND (₹400), granting access to several specific heritage sites within the town.
• Imperial City of Hue: Entrance fee is around 200,000 VND (₹650).
• Temple of Literature (Hanoi): ~30,000 VND (₹100)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex (Hanoi): Generally free entry to the complex, fees for specific museums inside.
• War Remnants Museum (HCMC): ~40,000 VND (₹130)
• Water Puppet Show (HCMC/Hanoi): Approx. cost is usually around 100,000-200,000 VND (₹300-₹600).

For a 7-day trip visiting several key sites, budget approximately ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 INR per person specifically for entrance fees and mandatory tours (like Trang An boat trip). Ha Long Bay cruises will increase this significantly.

7. SIM Card and Data Costs for Connectivity

Staying connected is easy and affordable in Vietnam.

• Local SIM Cards: Purchase from major providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone at the airport or city stores. A tourist SIM with data costs roughly ₹200 to ₹500 (approx. 60,000 to 150,000 VND) for a decent data package (e.g., several GB valid for 15-30 days).
• eSIM: If your phone supports eSIM, you can activate a plan online before you travel or upon arrival. Costs are similar to physical SIM cards, around ₹200 to ₹400 (60,000 to 120,000 VND) for short-term plans (e.g., 7-10 GB for 7 days). This is a convenient, potentially cost-effective option.
• Portable Wi-Fi Routers: Rental options available (e.g., via Klook, Tep Wireless) for ₹200 to ₹500 (60,000 to 150,000 VND) per day, useful for groups needing multiple connections, though adds to the daily cost.
• Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and even some public areas.

Total cost for a SIM card/eSIM and data plan for a typical 7-10 day stay usually ranges from ₹500 to ₹1,200 INR.

8. Additional Costs (Shopping, Tips, Miscellaneous)

Always budget for unforeseen expenses and personal spending:

• Shopping: Souvenirs like Vietnamese Coffee, handicrafts (lacquerware, bamboo products), tailor-made clothes (especially in Hoi An), conical hats (Non La), lanterns – costs vary greatly based on what you buy and your bargaining skills. Popular spots include Ben Thanh Market (HCMC), Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi), and Hoi An Night Market.
• Tips: While not mandatory in most local places, tipping is appreciated for good service, especially from tour guides, drivers (around $3-5 USD/day/group), and staff in upscale establishments.
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for peace of mind against unexpected events! Costs vary based on coverage and duration (estimate ₹1,000 – ₹3,000). Investing in adequate travel insurance for your Vietnam trip is a crucial part of responsible budgeting.
• Personal Expenses: Laundry, snacks, unexpected activities.
• Potential Value Adds: Some providers like SOTC might offer reward points on bookings or EMI payment options, which could influence perceived value even if not reducing the base cost directly.

Budget an extra ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 INR per person for these miscellaneous expenses, adjusting based on your shopping habits and need for buffer.

Total Estimated Vietnam Trip Cost from India (7-Day Trip Example)

Based on the breakdown above, here’s a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Vietnam per person from India, ranging from budget to mid-range:

• Visa Fees: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 INR
• Flight Tickets (Round Trip): ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 INR
• Accommodation (Mid-Range, Shared): ₹8,750 – ₹17,500 INR
• Local Transportation: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 INR
• Food and Dining (Mid-Range): ₹7,000 – ₹10,500 INR
• Attractions & Activities: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 INR
• SIM Card/Data: ₹500 – ₹1,200 INR
• Additional Costs (Incl. Insurance Estimate): ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 INR

Therefore, the total estimated Vietnam trip cost from India for a 7-day moderately comfortable trip typically ranges from ₹48,250 to ₹93,200 INR per person. This range covers the key root attributes: the estimated Amount in INR Currency for a trip from the Origin of India to the Destination of Vietnam, including typical travel Inclusions.

Disclaimer: This is an estimate. Actual costs depend heavily on your travel style (Budget vs. Luxury), booking time, specific destinations visited (e.g., adding expensive cruises to Ha Long Bay or trips to Phu Quoc), shopping habits, and flight deals secured. The price can vary significantly.

Tips for Optimizing Your Vietnam Trip Cost from India

Want to make your Vietnam adventure more budget-friendly? Here are some actionable tips:

• Travel During Shoulder/Off-Peak Seasons: Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-October) often offer pleasant weather (best time varies by region North/Central/South) and lower prices for flights and accommodation compared to peak season (Dec-Feb).
• Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Opt for well-rated hostels, guesthouses (Nha Nghi), or budget hotels. Booking platforms like Agoda or Booking.com can help find deals. Book in advance!
• Embrace Local Street Food: It’s delicious, authentic (try Pho, Banh Mi), and significantly cheaper than restaurant dining. Look for stalls popular with locals.
• Utilize Local Transportation Wisely: Use Grab for fair-priced taxis/bikes, consider overnight buses/trains for long distances instead of flights, and walk or rent bicycles for city exploration. For detailed options, refer to our guide on getting around Vietnam – a transportation guide for Indian tourists tailored to every travel style and budget.
• Negotiate Prices (Respectfully): Bargaining is common in markets (like Han Market in Da Nang) and sometimes for services like motorbike taxis or independent tours. Do it with a smile!
• Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, walking along Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting free temples/pagodas, relaxing on beaches (like My Khe Beach), or exploring local parks.
• Optimize Currency Exchange: Compare rates at banks or reputable gold/jewelry shops (often offering good rates) versus airport counters (usually less favorable). Minimize ATM withdrawals to reduce fees. Use apps like Xe Exchange for rate checks.
• Stay Hydrated Economically: Carry a refillable water bottle. Many hotels and cafes offer filtered water refill stations. Buying large bottles is cheaper than small ones.
• Consider Tour Packages: Sometimes, package deals (like those from Vietnam Story, SOTC, Flamingo Travels) covering accommodation, transport, and some tours can offer better value and convenience than booking everything separately. Look for packages matching your desired duration and inclusions.
• Look for Value-Added Offers: Check if tour operators offer EMI payment options (like SOTC mentions) or reward points which can provide additional value beyond the base price.
• Consider Customization: Opting for a customizable itinerary (offered by agencies like TravelTriangle, Vietnam Story) allows you to control costs by selecting preferred activities and accommodation levels.

Sample Vietnam Tour Packages from India (with Price Ideas)

For those seeking a structured itinerary and a clearer idea of package costs contributing to the overall Vietnam trip budget from India, here are examples based on common offerings:

Example 1: Classic 7-Day Tour (Similar to Vietnam Story / Flamingo Travels ‘Vietnam Classic’)

• Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days
• Itinerary Idea: Often covers key highlights like Ho Chi Minh City (incl. Cu Chi Tunnels), Mekong Delta day trip, flight to Hanoi, Ninh Binh (Trang An/Bai Dinh) day trip, Ha Long Bay day trip (or optional overnight cruise at extra cost), Hanoi exploration.
• Indicative Package Cost: Approximately ₹30,000 to ₹35,000 INR per person (based on double/twin sharing). Flamingo Travels lists ‘Vietnam Classic’ starting from ₹33,090. SOTC also offers packages starting around ₹33,200. This generally covers accommodation, specified meals, tours, entrance fees, guides, and internal transport as listed, but typically excludes international flights and visas.
• Focus: Covers major highlights, balances guided tours with some free time. Can be offered as a group tour or potentially upgraded to a private tour at a higher cost.

Example 2: Extended Tour with Da Nang/Phu Quoc (Similar to Flamingo/SOTC options)

• Duration: 8 Nights / 9 Days or 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Itinerary Idea: Builds on the classic tour, adding destinations like Da Nang (with potential visits to Hoi An, Ba Na Hills) or the island of Phu Quoc for beach relaxation.
• Indicative Package Cost: Ranging from approximately ₹49,000 to ₹57,000+ INR per person. Flamingo lists ‘Vietnam With Da Nang’ (8N/9D) from ₹49,000 and ‘Vietnam With Phu Quoc’ (9N/10D) from ₹56,170. These prices usually have similar inclusions/exclusions as the classic tour but cover more ground.
• Focus: Offers a broader experience, combining cultural sites with beaches or mountain resorts.

Example 3: Combined Country Tour (Similar to Flamingo ‘Signature of Vietnam & Cambodia’)

• Duration: 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Itinerary Idea: Covers key sites in Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City) and then travels to Cambodia (usually Siem Reap for Angkor Wat).
• Indicative Package Cost: Around ₹53,000+ INR per person (Flamingo lists from ₹53,420). Requires additional visa considerations and potentially more internal flights, impacting the overall cost.
• Focus: Suited for travelers wanting to explore multiple Southeast Asian countries in one trip.

Especially for first-time visitors from India, opting for a reputable tour operator like Vietnam Story, or comparing offerings from SOTC, Flamingo Travels, or TravelTriangle, can simplify planning and ensure a smooth experience. The ability to get a customizable tour allows tailoring the trip to your budget and interests, ensuring great value for your money when considering the overall Vietnam trip cost from India.

Vietnam Story utilizes its extensive network to offer quality services at competitive prices. Explore various Vietnam tour packages for Indian travelers or contact their experts to customize your dream Vietnam holiday within your budget today!