Vietnam Tour Packages

Reviewed by Thrillophilia Vietnam Operations Team

Updated as of April 2026

A Vietnam tour package with Thrillophilia starts at INR 38,990 for a 5-day trip covering Hanoi and Halong Bay. Everyone needs an escape from the city buzz and the fast-paced corporate life. When you walk around the Tran Quoc Pagoda on a weekday, without any worries of planning the future details of your trip, you start to realise that this might have been the best decision of your life. 

The sunlight hits your face as your cruise cuts through the water in Ha Long Bay, amongst limestone karsts in soft golden light. This becomes one of those travel memories that stays with you long after the trip. Our team at Thrillophilia, with 8+ years of experience in curating Vietnam tour packages, designs itineraries with details that are meant to stay with you long after your trip is over. 

One of our main goals while curating a Vietnam tour package is to focus on making it affordable yet comfortable for all Indian travellers. After closely working with Vietnam Tourism, we have designed over 40+ fully customisable itineraries. Each is curated to make sure your experience is smooth and hassle-free, all while being within your budget. 

From witnessing the early morning tai chi sessions in the heart of Hanoi to drifting through coconut groves in the Mekong Delta, all these experiences are handpicked by our team for you. Every package is customised to your needs and likes while prioritising your comfort. This is all because we understand that your preferences matter more than just a checklist of destinations. 

Note: Prices, visa timelines, and airline routes in this guide were last reviewed in April 2026. They are subject to change based on seasons and demand.

Vietnam Tour Overview: Costs, Duration, And Support 

• Price Range: INR 38,990-1,40,000+ per person, depending on routes, season, and duration
• Duration: 5-15 days
• Popular Plans: 7-9 day trips starting from INR 59,000
• Inclusions: Accommodations, intercity land transfers and selected flights; breakfast with vegetarian options; and selected activities depending on the package
• Thrillophilia Support: 24/7 on-ground support, visa guidance, and fully customisable itineraries

Vietnam Packages By Budget And Travel Style

Every Vietnam package includes a standard set of core services. The inclusions change depending on which package you choose, but without limiting your experience. Our expert-curated packages range from budget to luxury itineraries with the aim of making Vietnam accessible for all Indian traveller types.

1. Budget Vietnam Packages

• Duration: 4-6 days
• Price Range: INR 38,990-50,000 per person
• Inclusions: 3-star hotels, daily breakfast, guided city tours, shared transfers, and major sightseeing as per itinerary
• Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, students, and backpackers

Know more about: Vietnam Budget Tour

2. Standard Vietnam Packages

• Duration: 6-8 days
• Price Range: INR 55,000-85,000 per person
• Inclusions: 3-4 star hotels, selected internal domestic flights, Halong Bay cruise/overnight cruise, guided sightseeing across multiple cities, shared and private transfers, and selected meals
• Best for: Travellers with families and honeymoon travellers

3. Luxury Vietnam Tour Packages

• Duration: 8-10 days
• Price Range: INR 95,000-140,000+ per person
• Inclusions: 4-5 star hotels/luxury resorts, premium Halong Bay cruises, private transfers, curated experiences as per traveller type (candlelight dinner, spa sessions, cultural shows), and multi-city tours with internal flights
• Best for: Honeymooners and travellers wanting a luxurious and exclusive Vietnam experience

Know more about: Vietnam Luxury Tour

4. Combined Vietnam+Cambodia/Thailand Packages

• Duration: 10-15 days
• Price Range: INR 110,000+ per person
• Inclusions: Luxury package inclusions, cross-border guided sightseeing, inter-country flights, and multi-destination itineraries
• Best for: Travellers who want to experience multiple destinations beyond a single country

Vietnam Package Inclusions

• Accommodations: Overnight stays are included in all our packages
• Transfers: Shared/private airport and internal transfers. Some packages also include selected internal flights.
• Guided Sightseeing: All major sightseeing spots in your itinerary are guided by a local expert
• Select Meals: Breakfasts with vegetarian options are included in all our packages. Some packages also include other select meals.
• 24/7 On-trip Support: Our team always monitors your trip status via a network of local experts coordinated according to your itinerary. In case of any emergencies, make sure to contact your on-trip assistant immediately.

All our Vietnam tour packages are fully customisable. According to Thrillophilia’s internal booking data for 2025, over 70% of travellers opted for additional experiences rather than sticking to their base package. You can opt for upgrades like overnight cruises and choose spa sessions during your stay in Hanoi.

Vietnam Package Exclusions

• Personal Expenses: Shopping and other miscellaneous expenses are not included in the package.
• Meals Not Mentioned in Itinerary: Breakfast is always included. But apart from that, any meal not exclusively stated in the itinerary is not included. 
• Attraction Tickets: Tickets for attractions and experiences not mentioned in your itinerary are not included by default in your package. You can opt for them as an add-on.
• Travel Insurance: Starting at INR 500 per person, we highly recommend adding travel insurance to your trip package for protection against any unforeseen circumstances.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

1. Spring (March to April):

This window offers overall traveller-friendly weather all over Vietnam. Central Vietnam is warm and dry with clear skies and can be slightly humid. The north and southern regions, however, can experience light drizzle during this period. 

• Temperature: 20°C to 25°C in the north and 25°C to 30°C in the centre and south
• Best for: Trekking; watching spring blooms in Sa Pa and Moc Chau in Northern Vietnam and Hanoi; sightseeing in Central Vietnam (Hoi An and Hue); and overnight cruises
• Don’t Forget to Pack: Light, breathable cotton clothing, umbrella, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+) 

Booking Insight: This is the peak booking window for Vietnam tourism. The demand often results in inflated prices for flights and hotels, so make sure to book at least 3-4 months before you travel.

2. Summer (May-August):

North and South Vietnam experience the peak monsoon season from June. It’s also the most humid and hot window for the north. However, Central Vietnam has mostly dry and sunny weather with clear skies during this time. 

• Temperature: 25°C to 39°C
• Best for: Exploring central Vietnam beaches like Da Nang and Nha Trang; water sports and island hopping; and northern highland areas like Ha Giang and Bac Ha (before peak monsoon)
• Cultural Festivals of this Window: Ho Chi Minh River Festival (May), Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (May-July), Nha Trang Sea Tourism Festival (June)
• Don’t Forget to Pack: Loose clothing, cushioned walking shoes, insect repellent, and high SPF sunscreen

Booking Insight: If you are travelling in the peak monsoon window, make sure you have alternate itineraries for island-hopping. Coordinate with your trip assistant and plan for indoor activities or food walks in Hanoi City. Seafood catches are especially great during this window.

3. Autumn (September-November)

It's the peak rainy season in central Vietnam, while the south experiences sudden bursts of rain with pretty clear skies after. This is the best time for focusing on North Vietnam, with minimal rainfall, clear skies and low humidity. You’ll be good to go for enjoying Vietnam if you take basic rain precautions during this time.

• Temperature: 18°C to 28°C with minimal rain
• Best for: Rice fields in Sa Pa and Mu Cang Chai, Hanoi’s lakes, cafe hopping, and mid-autumn festivals like Tết Trung Thu in North Vietnam. For central Vietnam, visit Dalat for hiking, dramatic visuals, and waterfalls.
• Cultural Festival of This Window: Mid-Autumn (Full Moon) Festival (September-October), Hoi An Lantern Festival (October), Ok Om Bok Festival (November)
• Don’t Forget to Pack: Light hoodie/jacket, rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes

Booking Insight: The Tết Trung Thu festival is held on the 15th day of the Lunar 8th month, which means it falls somewhere in mid-September to early October. Plan your trip during this time to experience a unique cultural festival all across Vietnam. Focus on North Vietnam for good weather, golden rice fields, and minimal rain.

4. Winter (December-February)

While North Vietnam can get cloudy and misty in this window, you might get to see snowfall in Sa Pa. In Central Vietnam, you might experience some rainfall, especially in January-February, but the weather is otherwise great for sightseeing. South Vietnam has the best weather in the country during this time. It’s dry, sunny, low-humidity, and clear-skied, perfect for island hopping and relaxing on the beaches.

• Temperature: 10°C to 20°C in the north and 20°C to 27°C in the south
• Best for: Hanoi and Halong Bay exploration, floating markets in the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc for a proper beach experience in South Vietnam. Sa Pa and the northern regions can get really cold, but the overall weather is very comfortable for sightseeing.
• Cultural Festivals of This Window: Dalat Flower Festival (December)
• Don’t Forget to Pack: Heavy jacket, warm layers, hiking shoes, water-resistant socks, and moisturiser

Thrillophilia Insight: Time your trip during late January to early February to celebrate Tet (Lunar New Year). Celebrate with the locals during your overnight Ho Chi Minh City stay to get a genuine cultural experience.

Indian Holiday Planning Guide

If you’re confused about which month and time to choose for your trip to Vietnam according to public and school holidays, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

April-June: School summer vacations

• Best for: Central Vietnam

September-October: Dussehra/Puja holidays

• Best for: North Vietnam 

October-November: Diwali holidays

• Best for: North Vietnam (early October) and South Vietnam (late November)

December-January: Winter Vacation and New Year

• Best for: South Vietnam

How to Reach Vietnam from India: Flights And Routes

There are multiple direct operational flights connecting Vietnam and major Indian cities, with an average flight time of 4-6 hours. Connecting flights with layovers in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore are also regularly available. 

Here’s a complete guide for the best flight routes for your upcoming Vietnam trip - 

1. Direct Flights

Departure Cities: Most major cities, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore

Arrival Cities: Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)

Flight Duration: 4-6 hours

Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, VietJet Air, and Vietnam Airlines

Price Range: INR 10,000-18,000 on average for one-way flights and INR 28,000+ for round-trip standard tickets

2. Connecting Flights

Departure Cities: Most major cities, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore

Layover Cities: Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore

Arrival Cities: Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)

Flight Duration: 7-12 hours

Airlines: Thai Airways (Bangkok layover), Singapore Airlines (Singapore layover), and Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur layover)

Price Range: INR 8,500-18,000 for one-way flights and INR 20,000+ for round-trip standard tickets

Thrillophilia’s India to Vietnam Flight Insights

• VietJet Air added two new direct flight routes to Bangalore and Hyderabad in 2025, as reported by the Vietnam Embassy. It also offers cheaper flight options to Vietnam as compared to other airlines.
• If your travel dates are fixed, book your flight tickets 4-6 months in advance for the lowest fares, especially if you’re travelling in peak season.
• The cheapest months to fly to Vietnam are February-March, September, and early December.
• If you are budget-conscious, we recommend going to Vietnam via direct flight and getting connecting flights while returning.
• Indians need a Vietnam e-visa, valid for 30-90 days for all trips to the country.

Vietnam Visa for Indians: E-visa 2026 Guide

Applying for an e-visa is a very hassle-free process. Although it can get confusing with the various documents and rules to keep in mind. Here is a thorough guide to help you with your application process 

E-visa Application Process Guide

Step 1: Make sure you have an updated Indian passport before applying.

Step 2: Go to Vietnam’s official e-visa application portal.

Step 3: Prepare all the required documents in the correct format as specified in the portal.

Step 4: Fill out the application form. Make sure to double-check all details with your documents.

Step 5: Pay the visa fee of USD 25-50 or approx. INR 2300-4600 per entry.

Step 6: Submit and wait for the standard processing time of 3-5 working days.

Step 7: Once processed, you will receive a PDF version of your e-visa. Download and print it.

E-visa Documents Checklist 

• Passport (original, valid for a minimum of 6 months from your travel date)
• Scanned copy of your passport’s data page
• Passport-sized portrait photograph (4x6 cm, white background JPEG format)
• Entry and exit details (confirmed flight tickets of arrival and departure)
• Accommodation address (confirmed hotel address in Vietnam)

Things to Keep in Mind: 

• A physical copy of your e-visa is mandatory for entry at the airport.
• Phu Quoc Island is visa-free for all Indian passport holders for up to 30 days. To qualify for this, you have to arrive directly in Phu Quoc or transit through a third country like Thailand or Malaysia.

Best Vietnam Itineraries for Indian Travellers 2026

All our 40+ itineraries are designed to suit every Indian traveller type. Whether you’re a solo traveller or on your honeymoon, our Vietnam travel experts have got you covered. 

Any itinerary you choose is fully customisable with add-on experiences, activities, and upgrades. Based on Thrillophilia 2026 booking data, these are our travellers' most loved itineraries.

1) 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary

Rated 4.7 stars by over 5000+ travellers

Areas Covered: Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Hanoi

Price Range: INR 52,000-68,990

Best for: First-time Vietnam travellers, travellers who want a fast-paced journey, and group travellers.

Avoid if: Slow-paced traveller (this itinerary contains many quick transfers to different regions)

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh sightseeing tour with a visit to Cu Chi Tunnels

Day 3: Arrive in Da Nang and enjoy a Hoi An walking tour with a boat ride included

Day 4: Visit Ba Na Hills and Golden Hands Bridge. Fly to Hanoi.

Day 5: Enjoy a day trip to Ninh Binh

Day 6: Cruise tour in Halong Bay

Day 7: Departure day

Thrillophilia Traveller Note: 

“Had a wonderful experience on my 7-day Vietnam tour with Thrillophilia. The itinerary was well-balanced with sightseeing and relaxation. The local food, city tours, and beautiful views made the trip unforgettable. Everything was managed smoothly from start to finish.” - Rohan Sharma

Verified Thrillophilia international booking, 2026 departure

2) 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary

Rated 4.7 by over 4500+ travellers

Areas Covered: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Ho Chi Minh

Price Range: INR 95,000-140,000+

Best for: Honeymooners, experience-focused travellers, premium travellers, first-time travellers, and solo travellers

Avoid if: Budget-conscious travellers (frequent flights and overnight cruises drive up the price)

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Day 2: Enjoy a day trip to Ninh Binh

Day 3: Enjoy an overnight cruise in Halong Bay

Day 4: Arrive in Da Nang

Day 5: Enjoy a tour to Ba Na Hills

Day 6: Arrive in Phu Quoc

Day 7: Relax with a leisure day

Day 8: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh

Day 9: Enjoy a tour of the Mekong Delta

Day 10: Depart from Ho Chi Minh

Know more about: 10 Day Vietnam tour packages

Thrillophilia Traveller Note: 

“A very professionally managed international tour. The hotels were equipped with all the necessities and located in beautiful spots. Coordination between the regional office and our driver was always spot on. Highly recommend for couples wanting comfort and local flavour. The cruise experience was the standout feature of the entire trip.” — Ishaan Mehta

Verified Thrillophilia international booking, 2026 departure

Top Places to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country of dramatic visuals, mountain landscapes, beaches, and cultural significance. Here are all the places that are a must-visit on your Vietnam trip - 

1. Hanoi

Hanoi is the cultural capital of Vietnam, filled with local markets, temples, and beautifully lit streets. This is the perfect place to unwind when you’ve had a busy day full of sightseeing. 

• Best Time to Visit: October-April (cool and dry weather)
• Highlights: Temples and markets of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai Street galleries and boutiques

2. Halong Bay

Halong Bay is famous for limestone karsts, Cat Ba Island and the floating villages. This is where you can enjoy kayaking or take a look at the local life of villagers while enjoying a boat ride. If you’re a nature lover or just want to slow down on your trip, Halong Bay is the best destination for you.

• Best Time to Visit: October-April (cool and dry weather)
• Highlights: Ti Top Island (crystal clear waters for swimming), Cat Ba Island (the largest in Halong Bay), and floating villages
• Kayaking: For a half-day guided tour, it’ll cost you INR 1,000-1,500. Full-day tours range from INR 2,200 to INR 7,000+, depending on the luxury level

3. Hoi An

Hoi An has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 for its exceptionally preserved trading-port architecture. It is also home to 1,600-year-old ruins of the Champa Kingdom with dramatic architectural structures. The beaches, lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and local markets make it an attractive destination for all Vietnamese travellers.

• Best Time to Visit: February-July (perfect weather for sightseeing)
• Highlights: An Nang Beach, Hoi An Central Market, and My Son Sanctuary

4. Ho Chi Minh City

This is the city where you witness Vietnam’s French colonies, and it takes you back to the wartime legacy of this country. From the underground tunnel network to the museum showcasing memorials of the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City serves as a cold reminder of the unforgettable history of Vietnam. 

• Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry and cool weather)
• Highlights: Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market

5. Hue

Hue is another important city of Vietnam that takes you back to its imperial past. With its grand temples and gardens of the Nguyen Dynasty and the seven-storey pagoda, where you can relax with scenic views of the Perfume River, Hue is the perfect place to unwind during your Vietnam trip.

• Best Time to Visit: March to August (mild weather, great for sightseeing)
• Highlights: Imperial City, Perfume River, and Thien Mu Pagoda

6. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is where you get beaches with soft sand, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving to take a look at the marine life of Vietnam. Nha Trang is also home to a popular amusement park, which is great if you crave some adventure in your itinerary. Exploring Nha Trang will be a highlight of your trip, packed with exhilarating activities. 

• Best Time to Visit: January to August (dry and sunny weather)
• Highlights: Nha Trang City Beach, Hon Mun Island, and Vinpearl Land
• Hon Mun Island Snorkelling: Half-day guided snorkelling tours typically cost INR 2,400-3,700 per person, while full-day tours start from INR 5,000.
• Vinpearl Land: Tickets start from approx. INR 2456 per adult for basic entry

7. Sa Pa

This is Vietnam’s best mountain escape, filled with scenic peaks, rice fields, dramatic visuals, and homestays in ethnic villages surrounded by mountain landscapes. Fansipan Mountain and Cat Cat Village offer trekking and hiking opportunities, which attract adventure-loving travellers to this destination in Vietnam.

• Best Time to Visit: September-November and March-May (perfect season for golden rice fields)
• Highlights: Fansipan Mountain, Cat Cat Village, and Muong Hoa Valley
• Fansipan Mountain Cable Ride: Round trips range between INR 2,700 and 3,500 per person
• Cat Cat Village Trekking: For guided treks to the village, it costs between INR 2,000 and INR 5,700 per person

8. Phu Quoc Island

From beaches to the national park, Phu Quoc offers a perfect balance between a leisurely and busy day. The Dinh Cau Night Market is famous for its fresh seafood and local items, which make for great souvenirs to bring back home as a memory of your time in Vietnam.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March (dry and cool weather for beach activities)
• Highlights: Sao Beach, Dinh Cau Night Market, and Phu Quoc National Park
• Phu Quoc National Park: General entry is free for independent visitors, while jungle safaris and trekking activities require separate charges that vary by season.

Activities Included in Vietnam Tour Packages

Vietnam offers a vast range of activities throughout its regions. If you’re confused about which ones to pick to include in your package, let us help you out.

1. Kayaking And Overnight Cruises in Halong Bay

Cutting through the clear waters of Halong Bay while dramatic limestone karsts surround you is an experience that draws travellers from all over the world. Vung Vieng Fishing Village or Ba Hang Fishing Village are great options for both cruises and kayaking opportunities.

Kayaking Cost: Ranges from INR 3,300 to INR 8,000 for day trips, generally including lunch and cave visits.

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, nature lovers, experience-driven travellers, and families

Cruise Price Breakdown

• Day Cruise: Ranges from INR 2,800 to INR 10,400 per person with standard inclusions like lunch, cave visits, and hiking. Best for travellers on a time crunch and first-time visitors.
• Overnight Cruise: Overnight cruises start from INR 9,300 and go up to INR 26,000 per person, depending on season and luxury level, for a 2-day stay. This includes most meals and access to onboard entertainment, along with swimming pools. This is the best option for couples and travellers who want to avoid the crowds of day cruises.
• Luxury Cruise: Ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 60,000 depending on your duration, cabin type, and season. This generally includes cabins with private balconies and all meals, along with activities like kayaking, Tai Chi sessions, squid fishing, and cave explorations. If you are someone who’s seeking exclusive and luxurious experiences, this option is for you.

2. Trekking in Sa Pa

Sa Pa offers some of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Vietnam. The golden rice fields, the scenic mountain landscapes, and the minority ethnic villages make for a stretch genuinely worth experiencing. To explore the entirety of Sa Pa, it would typically take you a 2-4 day trek. You can also opt for shorter 2-4 hour treks to Cat Cat Falls or Lao Chai. 

• Trekking Price Range: A full-day guided trekking experience starts from INR 2,300 approx., while a 2-day trekking experience starts from around INR 4,700. The prices vary depending on seasons, durations, and add-ons.
• Best for: Beginner hikers looking for short trips and adventurous hikers with 2-4 day treks

3. Motorbike Loop in Ha Giang: Is it Safe for Indians?

If you love biking, you should experience riding through mountain roads and valleys, surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges. Ha Giang famously attracts thousands of bikers each year with the promise of an adventure, and it does not leave them disappointed.

Safety Logistics for Indian Travellers

• Do not self-drive unless you have genuine experience with steep mountain terrain
• Hire an ‘Easy Rider’, a local guide, to drive you through the stretch
• Roads can be slippery with narrow cliff edges and landslides
• Keep proper documentation of your driving licence with you at all times

Easy Rider Price Range: Priced between INR 6,300 and INR 25,000, these trips vary depending on duration and inclusions. Packages range from 1 to 4 days, based on how much of the region you want to explore, with standard 1-day tours typically including a motorbike and a guide.

Best for: Adventure-seekers and experienced motorcyclists with proper experience in navigating mountain roads

4. Nha Trang Diving

If you love the sea, exploring the marine life of Nha Trang is sure to be a trip highlight for you, with over 300 coral species and 250+ marine species to explore. Some of the best diving spots include Hon Mun Marine Park, Whale Island (good for beginners), and Madonna Rock.

• Scuba Diving: Beginner scuba diving programmes usually start around INR 8,000, and multi-dive beginner-friendly dives start at approx. INR 9,000. Private tour packages generally start at INR 16,000+.
• Snorkelling: Half-day snorkelling tours typically start from INR 3,000, which includes equipment. The price can vary depending on add-on experiences like onboard BBQ, meals, private sessions, durations, and season.

Best for: Snorkelling is best suited for diving beginners and families with children. Scuba diving is best for more experienced divers, although there are a lot of beginner-friendly options.

Food Guide for Indians in Vietnam

One of the most important factors to consider before planning an international trip is your food options. Will you get Indian options there? Which Vietnamese food would you like? Are there vegetarian and family-friendly options? Don’t worry, we will answer all your questions here. 

Best Indian Restaurants in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

• Dalcheeni, Hanoi: This restaurant serves a wide range of Indian dishes and is especially popular with families and vegetarian travellers.
• Namaste Hanoi, Hanoi: Located in the Hoan Kiem district, Namaste Hanoi offers both northern and southern Indian cuisines. It’s very popular with travellers with families or friends.
• Namaste India, Ho Chi Minh City: Located on Bui Vien Boulevard, this restaurant offers Indian fine dining with a homely feel and live music on weekends. It is a dependable choice for travellers looking for familiar flavours, with a wide vegetarian selection and a comfortable dining atmosphere.
• Shri Natraj Indian Cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City: With a homely and welcoming atmosphere, Shri Natraj is a gem for all Indian travellers looking for a personal and authentic dining experience in Vietnam with their family.

Is Vietnam vegetarian-friendly?

Since Vietnam is primarily a Buddhist country, it has many vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have vegetarian options in both Vietnamese and Indian cuisines. To find dedicated vegetarian spots, use apps like HappyCow or Google Maps.

Thrillophilia’s Vegetarian Insights for Vietnam

• Look Out for the “Chay”: “Chay” means "vegetarian" in Vietnamese. Restaurant signs featuring the word “chay”, especially as "quán chay" or "cơm chay", mean that they are fully vegetarian.
• New/Full Moon Traditions: Locals have the tradition of eating vegetarian on full moon days (rằm) and new moon days (mồng một). You’ll find an even wider variety of vegetarian options during this time in Vietnam.
• Important Phrases: Learn a few Vietnamese phrases to make it easier when you want to order vegetarian dishes in authentic Vietnamese restaurants. "Tôi ăn chay" means “I am a vegetarian", and "không có nước mắm" means “no fish sauce", as many non-vegetarian restaurants commonly use fish sauce in their dishes.
• Safe Vegetarian Options: Dishes such as phở chay (vegetarian pho) and bánh mì chay (vegetarian banh mi) are commonly available as vegetarian options in many places.

Must-try Vietnamese Dishes on Your Trip

1. Bánh Cuốn: A North Vietnamese dish, bánh cuốn is a steamed rice roll traditionally filled with ground pork and mushrooms, served with a tangy nước chấm (dipping sauce) made with fish sauce. It’s often garnished with fresh herbs and has a light, savoury taste. 

2. Bún Chả: A famous Hanoi speciality, this dish serves grilled fatty pork on top of steamed white rice noodles along with a dipping sauce. Bún Chả became even more popular when President Barack Obama tried it during his visit to Vietnam.

3. Phở Bò: This dish features rice noodles in a beef broth garnished with thin slices of beef, herbs, bean sprouts, and lime. This is a very popular breakfast choice amongst the locals and travellers alike.

4. Bánh Xèo: These are crispy, savoury rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. If you want to enjoy them like the locals, wrap them in lettuce and dip them in the fermented soybean sauce as served with the dish. With so many different textures, it feels like a burst of flavours in your mouth.

5. Bún Bò Huế: For all the spice lovers, try this spicy beef and pork noodle soup, which originated in the city of Hue. Its broth is flavoured with lemongrass and shrimp paste and served with thick rice noodles. It’s often topped with beef and pork slices and sometimes even congealed pig’s blood.

6. Gỏi Cuốn: Traditionally wrapped in rice paper, these are more commonly known as fresh spring rolls and stuffed with greens, herbs, shrimp, and/or pork. It’s usually served with a peanut sauce or nước chấm for dipping.

Thrillophilia Insight: Although most of these dishes traditionally contain meat, they are also available as a vegetarian version in many places. If any of the dipping sauces or garnishes are something you’re not comfortable with having, don’t hesitate to inform the server. Always prioritise your comfort while trying new dishes, especially when you’re in a foreign country.

India-Vietnam Travel Insights

Although Vietnam is a very traveller-friendly country, it’s the small, ignorable issues that become a problem when you’re actually in the country. Here are some tips that will help you in easy navigation of Vietnam during your stay

1. Currency and Payments: The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong. 1 INR = 283.06 VND as of 2026. Digital payments, especially via QR code, are increasingly becoming more widely accepted in Vietnam. Payments via apps like MoMo, ZaloPay, and VNPay are easily accepted at cafes, stores, and restaurants. We would still suggest carrying some cash in case you plan on visiting souvenir shops or markets in rural areas.

2. SIM Cards: You can use Indian SIM cards (Jio, Airtel, Vodafone) in Vietnam by activating an international roaming pack before your arrival. We recommend purchasing a local Vietnamese SIM card at the airport (Viettel or Mobifone) for faster connectivity and to save significantly on roaming charges.

3. Transport Apps: Uber does not work in Vietnam. The best alternative is to use Grab, a similar cab service like Uber. They’re often cheaper than local taxis and can prevent scams or overpaying. Alternatively, you can also use Be and Xanh SM instead of Grab in case you face any issues with it.

4. Basic Vietnamese Phrases: It’s good to be familiar with primary Vietnamese phrases for connecting better with local people. "Xin chào" (hello), "Cảm ơn" (thank you), and "Bao nhiêu tiền?" (How much?) are especially helpful at restaurants, in markets, and for availing cab services.

Safety Tips for Indian Travellers in Vietnam

Vietnam is a safe country in general, but it never hurts to take precautions. Here are some things you should be mindful of while visiting the country – 

• While at markets, always bargain with the vendors before paying. Foreigners often get overcharged, especially at festival stalls or markets in tourist spots.
• Vietnam is generally safe, but phone-snatching is a common occurrence on busy streets. Be careful and aware of your belongings. If you’re carrying shoulder bags, wrap the strap around your hand for extra safety.
• Eat at popular restaurants. While low-customer restaurants also serve good food, it’s better not to risk your health while you’re on a trip. Eating at places well-recommended and liked by fellow travellers or your local guide is the better way to go about it. 
• If you’re carrying a lot of cash or jewellery, don’t stash it in one place. Use your hotel’s safe/locker to keep them safe during your stay. Have copies of your passport and other documents along with the originals ready and handy at all times.
• Save the address to your hotel on your phone to help with the language barrier, especially with cab services.