Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a captivating destination known for its unique mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its landscapes range from scenic terraced rice fields in the north to bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, making it a destination that caters to all types of travellers. 

In 2023, Vietnam welcomed an impressive 12.6 million international arrivals, with 392,000 visitors from India alone—an over-threefold increase from 2019. As of the end of July 2024, the country had already welcomed 272,000 Indian visitors, solidifying Vietnam as a sought-after destination for Indian travellers. This constant growth reflects Vietnam’s strategic focus on enhancing its connectivity with India, offering more flight options and simplified visa processes. 

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Apply with Atlys for a fast and hassle-free Vietnam e-visa!

Travelling to Vietnam from India by Air

Vietnam is well-connected internationally, with major airports located in key tourism and business hubs. Although the country has numerous international airports, the primary gateways for Indians include Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, Da Nang International Airport, and Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Additionally, direct international flights to other tourist destinations like Nha Trang and Phu Quoc are also available, although these flights are less frequent.

Here’s detailed information about the three main airports, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, connecting to India’s major cities. 

India to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) 

One of the most popular airports in Vietnam is the Noi Bai International Airport, which serves as a primary entry point for travellers heading to Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, and northern regions. The airport has two main terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international flights, connected by a shuttle bus running every 10–15 minutes from 6 am to 1 am. The modern T2 terminal offers a range of amenities, including duty-free shops, ATMs, and luggage storage options, ensuring a comfortable experience for international travellers.

Distance from airport to Hanoi city centre: Approximately 27 kilometres; around 1 hour by car.

Noi Bai is served by multiple airlines, which connect to various destinations across Asia, Europe, and other regions. There are frequent flights to major hubs. It serves as a hub for Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air.

Arriving at Noi Bai International Airport? Read our Hanoi arrival guide

Points to Note

• The average round-trip flight cost from India to Hanoi ranges from INR 30,000 to INR 55,000, depending on the departure city, booking time, and airline.

• The average flight duration from India to Hanoi varies, generally between 6 to 10 hours, including layovers. 

• Delhi and Kolkata typically offer shorter flights (6-8 hours), while most flights from Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore are longer (8-10 hours).

• Be aware of baggage allowances, especially with budget airlines like VietJet Air and AirAsia, as they may charge extra for checked luggage or have strict carry-on policies.

• Although it may seem that flights from India to Hanoi are comparatively cheaper, please note flight prices and seat availability can fluctuate depending on the season and demand. Book in advance, especially if travelling during peak tourist seasons, like spring and fall, in Vietnam.

India to HCMC’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) 

Tan Son Nhat is Vietnam’s busiest airport, serving the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh and southern Vietnam. According to WorldData.info, the airport is served by 41 airlines connecting 54 destinations worldwide! With its two terminals, T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international, the airport is efficient and well-equipped with amenities like duty-free shops, lounges, and restaurants. However, given its high traffic, be sure to allow extra time for security checks.

Distance from airport to HCMC city centre: 7 kilometres ~ 30 minutes by car (approximately)

Points to Note

• The average round-trip flight cost from India to Ho Chi Minh City ranges from INR 30,000 to INR 70,000, depending on the city and airline.

• Flight durations vary, with Delhi having the shortest at 6-8 hours and Kolkata the longest at 10-12 hours.

• Major airlines on these routes include Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and AirAsia.

• Check baggage policies carefully, especially when flying with budget airlines, as extra charges may apply.

• Some flights may have layovers in transit hubs like Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur; verify layover durations when booking. Moreover, depending on the layover destination, make sure to check if you need to apply for a transit visa. 

India to Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

Da Nang International Airport serves the vibrant central region of Vietnam, including the city of Da Nang and nearby tourist spots like Hoi An and My Son. The airport operates with two terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international. These terminals are conveniently connected by a covered walkway. Known for its modern design, Da Nang Airport is generally less crowded than the larger hubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering a smoother experience for travellers. 

Distance from the airport to Da Nang city centre: 3 kilometers, approximately 10-15 minutes by car.

Points to Note

• Round-trip flights from India to Da Nang typically range between INR 35,000 and INR 60,000, depending on the departure city, airline, and booking time.

• The average flight duration from India to Da Nang is 8-12 hours, generally including layovers. Delhi and Kolkata have shorter travel times (around 8-10 hours) and comparatively cheaper flights.

• Common airlines on this route include Vietnam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, VietJet Air, and AirAsia.

• Many flights to Da Nang have layovers in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore. Be sure to check layover durations and confirm if a transit visa is required, as per the layover country’s regulations.

As you can see, flying from India to Vietnam is the fastest and most convenient way to reach this Southeast Asian gem. If minimising travel time is essential, Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) are the best options. Flights from Delhi and Kolkata tend to have shorter durations, with fewer or shorter layovers, making these cities ideal starting points if you’re based in North or East India. If you're prioritising cost over travel time, flights to Hanoi and Da Nang often offer competitive pricing, especially with budget carriers like VietJet Air and AirAsia. 

Travelling to Vietnam from India by Road

Travelling from India to Vietnam by road is theoretically possible, but it involves a complex, multi-country route through Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos or Cambodia, finally arriving in Vietnam. This route requires:

• Multiple visas: Visas for Myanmar, Thailand, Laos (or Cambodia), and Vietnam are necessary, each with specific requirements.

• Permits: Myanmar requires special travel permits for foreign vehicles, which adds to the complexity.

• Long travel time: The overland journey is lengthy and can take several weeks, covering thousands of kilometres across varying terrains.

• Border crossings: Each country has its own regulations, customs checks, and vehicle documentation requirements.

Due to the logistical challenges, lengthy travel time, and visa requirements, road travel to Vietnam from India is also not a practical option for most travellers.

Travelling to Vietnam from India by Rail 

Currently, there is no direct train service from India to Vietnam. If at all you are considering the rail route, you would first need to reach China by train from India (which requires multiple transfers and separate visas) and then travel by train through China into Vietnam, typically entering via the Nanning–Hanoi route. 

However, this journey is long, complicated, and involves multiple international train connections, visas, and thorough planning. Due to these logistical complexities, it’s not a recommended route for casual travellers.

Once you decide on your preferred route from India to Vietnam, make sure to read our comprehensive guide on the 10 essential things to know before travelling to Vietnam. 

Conclusion

Vietnam has rapidly become a favoured destination for Indian travellers, thanks to its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and increasing accessibility. Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant cities, historical sites, or serene countryside, Vietnam offers something for every traveller. Flying from India is undoubtedly the most practical and efficient way to reach Vietnam, with multiple cities and airlines offering convenient connections. For a hassle-free journey, remember to plan your flights and visa well in advance and enjoy the captivating experiences that await you in Vietnam!

Ready to create the trip of a lifetime? Make sure to read our expertly crafted 7-day Vietnam itinerary.