Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable and rewarding destinations for Indian travelers. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant street food culture, you don’t need a fortune to experience the best the country has to offer. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a couple, or a group of friends, Vietnam delivers exceptional value for every rupee spent.
If you’re based in Gujarat and searching for Vietnam tour packages from Ahmedabad, this guide will help you understand how to plan a memorable and budget-friendly Vietnamese adventure.
1. Choose the Right Time to Travel
Timing your trip right can save a lot on flights and accommodation. The best time to visit Vietnam on a budget is during the shoulder seasons:
March to April: Before the summer rush.
September to November: After the monsoon, when prices drop and the weather is pleasant.
Avoid peak seasons like December to February (especially around Lunar New Year), when prices for flights and hotels shoot up.
2. Book Flights Smartly
Flights from India to Vietnam can vary significantly in cost. Follow these tips to save:
Use fare comparison tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak.
Be flexible with dates—midweek departures are often cheaper.
Consider flying from Ahmedabad via Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur, which often have cheaper connecting flights to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Book flights at least 2-3 months in advance for the best rates.
3. Get the Right Visa
Indian passport holders require a Vietnam visa, but it’s an easy and affordable process:
Apply for an e-Visa online for $25 (valid for 30 days).
No need to go through agents—do it directly on the official immigration website.
Keep a printed copy for arrival.
4. Plan Your Budget-Friendly Itinerary
Vietnam has something for every traveler and every budget. Here’s a sample low-cost itinerary:
Week-Long Sample Itinerary:
Day 1–2: Hanoi – Explore Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and street food tours.
Day 3–4: Ninh Binh – Take a local bus or train, visit Tam Coc, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Temple.
Day 5–6: Halong Bay (Budget Cruise) – Choose a one-night cruise with meals included.
Day 7: Back to Hanoi & Departure
Alternatively, start in Ho Chi Minh City and explore the south—Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, and day trips to Vung Tau.
5. Accommodation That Doesn’t Break the Bank
Vietnam has countless budget-friendly stays, from hostels to homestays and affordable hotels:
Hostels: INR 500–1000/night (many include free breakfast).
Budget Hotels: INR 1200–2500/night (Airbnb and Booking.com have great deals).
Homestays: Best value with local food and cultural experiences.
Look for places in central areas for easy access to attractions without transport costs. Cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Hoi An offer great affordable stays.
6. Local Transport Hacks
Transportation within Vietnam is cheap and efficient.
Flights: Domestic airlines like VietJet and Bamboo Airways offer low-cost flights between major cities.
Trains: The Reunification Express (Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City) is scenic and economical.
Buses: Sleeper buses connect all major tourist spots at budget rates.
Grab App: Use this for affordable bike taxis and rideshare instead of local taxis.
Walking is a great (and free!) way to explore places like the Old Quarter in Hanoi or the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An.
7. Eat Like a Local
Vietnamese street food is not just tasty—it’s incredibly budget-friendly:
Pho (noodle soup): INR 80–150
Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich): INR 60–100
Spring Rolls & Noodles: INR 100–200
Markets and roadside stalls offer the best value. For vegetarians, cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi have "Chay" (vegetarian) restaurants or Jain food options in Indian eateries.
A day’s meals can cost as little as INR 300–500 if you stick to local food joints.
8. Top Free & Low-Cost Attractions
Vietnam offers many cultural and natural experiences that don’t cost a fortune:
Free Walks: Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoi An old town, or Da Nang’s beaches.
Temples & Pagodas: Many have free entry or minimal donations, like Tran Quoc Pagoda or Linh Ung Pagoda.
Museums & History Sites: Entry to most is under INR 100–300.
Scooter Rentals: For INR 300–500/day, explore places at your pace.
9. Currency Exchange & Spending Tips
Vietnam’s currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Avoid exchanging currency at airports—use local exchange counters in the city.
Carry a travel card or use UPI-enabled forex cards for safer transactions.
Bargain at local markets—especially for souvenirs, clothes, and tours.
10. Consider Budget-Friendly Tour Packages
Booking a travel package may sound expensive, but it often turns out cheaper when you account for flights, accommodations, activities, and transfers.
At Go 360, we offer customized Vietnam tours that are designed for budget travelers. You get:
Pre-booked stays in central areas
Low-cost flights with checked baggage
Local transport and activities included
Optional vegetarian/Indian meals
It’s stress-free, cost-effective, and lets you enjoy Vietnam without worrying about the details.
Final Budget Tips
Buy a local SIM card for internet and Google Maps (costs under INR 400).
Download offline maps and translation apps.
Join free walking tours in major cities.
Carry a refillable water bottle—many hotels offer water refills.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam proves that an exotic, fulfilling international trip doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. With smart planning, local insights, and some flexibility, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, amazing food, and warm hospitality on a budget.
Whether you go solo or book through a reliable operator, exploring Vietnam tour packages can simplify the process and give you excellent value for your time and money.
Ready to plan your dream trip to Vietnam on a budget? Let Go 360 guide you every step of the way!
