Embarking on a journey to a foreign land is a wondrous experience that fills our hearts with anticipation and excitement. It is a chance to immerse ourselves in a new culture, discover new tastes, and explore breathtaking landscapes that we have never seen before. In this 5-day budget-friendly itinerary of Vietnam, we follow the path less travelled, taking in the unexplored sights of a country that has an abundance of history and natural beauty to offer. Our journey begins in the bustling capital city of Hanoi, where we stroll through its ancient streets, experiencing the charming atmosphere and savouring the tantalizing aroma of street food. We visit the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, soak in the stunning scenery of the countryside in Ninh Binh, and marvel at the intricacies of the water puppet shows. In the end, we return home with a sense of renewal, an appreciation for the vastness of our world and its cultures, and a desire to return again someday.
Here's a detailed 5-day budget-friendly Vietnam itinerary for backpackers and friends:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Fly from Delhi to Hanoi (flights can cost around INR 15,000-20,000 round-trip).
Check in to a budget-friendly hotel or hostel in the Old Quarter (around INR 1,500-2,500 per night for a double room).
Spend the day exploring the city's charming streets and markets on foot, enjoying delicious street food (around INR 500 per meal per person).
In the evening, visit Hoan Kiem Lake to watch the sunset and see the locals practicing tai chi.
Day 2: Ha Long Bay
Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay to experience the stunning scenery of the limestone karsts and islands (boat tours start at around INR 3,000-3,500 per person, including lunch).
Return to Hanoi in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant (around INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person).
Day 3: Ninh Binh
Take a day trip to Ninh Binh to explore the stunning countryside and rivers (private car hire can cost around INR 3,000-3,500 per day for a group of four people).
Visit the Tam Coc rice fields and take a sampan boat ride through the area (boat rides cost around INR 1,500-2,000 per person).
Have lunch at a local restaurant (around INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person).
Return to Hanoi in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant (around INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person).
Day 4: Hanoi
Spend the day exploring Hanoi's temples, museums, and historical sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature (entrance fees start at around INR 100-200 per person).
Have lunch at a local restaurant (around INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person).
In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show (tickets cost around INR 500-800 per person), followed by dinner.
Day 5: Departure
Spend the morning exploring the local markets and shops in the Old Quarter.
Have lunch at a local restaurant (around INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person).
Take an afternoon flight back to Delhi (flights can cost around INR 15,000-20,000 round-trip).
Overall, this itinerary can cost around INR 35,000-40,000 per person, depending on flight and accommodation choices, as well as the cost of car hire and boat tours. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on the time of year, so it's best to check for updated prices before booking.
Here is a price breakdown:
Flights: INR 15,000-20,000 round-trip
Accommodation: INR 7,500-12,500 for four nights (INR 1,500-2,500 per night for a double room)
Food: INR 8,000-12,000 for five days (INR 1,000-1,500 per meal per person)
Transport: INR 6,500-7,500 for day trips (INR 3,000-3,500 for car hire per day, INR 1,500-2,000 for boat tours per person)
Miscellaneous: INR 500-1,000 for tickets to museums and shows
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