Vietnam Vs Thailand 2025: Which is cheaper for Indian travellers?
If you're an Indian traveller planning a Southeast Asian escape in 2025, chances are you're torn between Vietnam and Thailand. Both promise beaches, buzzing cities, great food, and a wallet-friendly holiday. But when it comes down to Vietnam vs Thailand cost 2025, which destination will keep your budget happier?
Let's break it down, rupee by rupee, so you can decide where your next boarding pass should take you.
Flight costs – Who wins the take-off game?
For most of us, flights are the biggest upfront cost.
- Vietnam: Return flights from Delhi or Mumbai to Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City in 2025 hover between ₹18,000–₹24,000 if booked a couple of months in advance. Sales sometimes bring it lower.
- Thailand: Bangkok and Phuket are closer and more connected. Expect return fares between ₹14,000–₹20,000. Low-cost airlines also push deals during off-season.
Verdict: Thailand edges out here—it's quicker and cheaper to fly to.
Visa and entry rules – Easier in Thailand
- Vietnam: Indians need an e-visa. Cost is around ₹2,000, valid for 30 days, single entry. The process is simple but must be done online before arrival.
- Thailand: Thailand is offering a visa-free entry for Indians until May 2025, and it might extend further. Normally, visa on arrival is about ₹4,000.
Verdict: For now, Thailand is easier and potentially free, giving it a strong edge in the Thailand vs Vietnam for Indians debate.
Accommodation – Budget beds to boutique charm
- Vietnam: Budget hotels and hostels cost ₹1,200–2,000 per night. Even 3-star hotels rarely cross ₹3,500. Homestays in Sapa or Hoi An can be as low as ₹800.
- Thailand: Hostels start at ₹1,000, and mid-range hotels average ₹2,500–3,500. Popular islands like Phuket or Koh Samui can be pricier in peak season.
Verdict: Vietnam is slightly cheaper across the board, especially for longer stays.
Food – Street eats vs street eats
Both countries are paradise for foodies, but the costs differ a bit.
- Vietnam: A bowl of pho or banh mi sandwich costs ₹150–300. Meals in casual restaurants fall around ₹400–600. Coffee culture is strong and affordable (~₹100).
- Thailand: A plate of pad thai or green curry on the street sets you back ₹200–300. Mid-range meals hover between ₹500–700.
Verdict: Very close, but Vietnam wins on sheer affordability—especially for coffee lovers and vegetarians who will find "chay" (veg) dishes easily.
Getting around – Trains vs tuk-tuks
- Vietnam: Domestic flights are cheap (₹2,500–4,000). Overnight trains and buses cost less and double as adventure. Grab taxis are available in cities.
- Thailand: Thailand has better-developed local transport. Tuk-tuks, metros in Bangkok, and ferries in the islands are quick and cheap. Intercity buses cost ~₹800–1,200, flights ₹2,500+.
Verdict: Thailand is slightly easier to move around, but Vietnam keeps costs comparable.
Activities and attractions – Experiences matter
Vietnam:
- Halong Bay cruise: ₹3,000–4,000
- Cu Chi Tunnels tour: ₹600
- Sapa trekking: ₹1,200 per day
- Museums/temples: ₹100–300
Thailand:
- Island-hopping tour in Krabi: ₹2,500–3,500
- Grand Palace, Bangkok: ₹1,000
- Full-day Phi Phi trip: ₹4,000
- Night markets: free to browse, budget-friendly eats
Verdict: Vietnam comes in a little cheaper, though Thailand's polished tours may justify the extra cost for some.
Nightlife and shopping – Depends on your style
- Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have buzzing beer streets, with draft beer at ₹70–100 a glass. Shopping is cheap at local markets, though less flashy.
- Thailand: Famous for night markets, clubs, and cabaret shows. Drinks can be pricier (₹300+ for cocktails), but the variety is unmatched. Shopping ranges from dirt-cheap to high-end malls.
Verdict: Thailand wins for party lovers and shopaholics, Vietnam for low-cost chill vibes.
Sample 7-day budget for Indians in 2025
Vietnam (per person):
- Flights: ₹20,000
- Visa: ₹2,000
- Stay: ₹10,000
- Food: ₹5,000
- Activities + transport: ₹10,000
Total: ~₹47,000
Thailand (per person):
- Flights: ₹17,000
- Visa: Free (2025, until policy changes)
- Stay: ₹12,000
- Food: ₹6,000
- Activities + transport: ₹12,000
Total: ~₹47,000
So, Vietnam vs Thailand which is cheaper?
Surprise, both average out around the same!
- Choose Vietnam if you love mountains, culture-rich towns, and quieter experiences on a budget.
- Choose Thailand if beaches, nightlife, and easy connectivity matter more.
For Vietnam budget vs Thailand, Vietnam stretches your rupee further in food and accommodation, while Thailand scores in flights and convenience.
Plan smarter with Alike
Why stress about costs when you can book smarter? With Alike, you can:
- Compare packages for both Vietnam and Thailand.
- Grab affordable eSIMs to stay connected.
- Bundle attractions with the right pass to save money.
Plan your Southeast Asian holiday the Alike way—and make your rupees stretch further, whether you're sipping coffee in Hanoi or slurping noodles in Bangkok.
FAQs
Is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand for Indians in 2025?
Is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand for Indians in 2025?
Which country is better for a first international trip?
Which country is better for a first international trip?
How much money do I need for a week in Vietnam or Thailand?
How much money do I need for a week in Vietnam or Thailand?
Is vegetarian food easy to find?
Is vegetarian food easy to find?
Can I cover both in one trip?
Can I cover both in one trip?
