In the list of the top 10 preferred destinations for Indian tourists, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) ranks 6th, and Hanoi ranks 8th. This holds significant meaning as currently, only about 1% of Indian tourists travel abroad, with the majority preferring domestic tourism. This trend has emerged since the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the booking platform Booking.com and the consulting company McKinsey, Indians undertook 1.7 billion trips in 2022, with only 1% of these being international travel.

This trend is expected to continue until 2030. A report released in October forecasts that Indian tourists will undertake 5 billion trips in 2030, with 99% of them being domestic.

The most populous country globally is anticipated to become the fourth-largest spender in tourism by 2030, primarily due to the increasing average income and household income expected to rise by an additional $35,000 per year by that time. Concurrently, spending on tourism and travel by Indian tourists is predicted to reach $410 billion – an increase of over 170% compared to $150 billion in 2019.

Moreover, according to McKinsey, the population of India is youthful, with an average age of 27.6, which is 10 years younger than most major economies.

Currently, the most visited destinations by Indian tourists are large cities, but there is a notable trend towards an increasing preference for smaller cities.

Ho Chi Minh City

Vibrating with energy, innovation, and traffic – lots of traffic – Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region. A freewheeling, cosmopolitan metropolis, HCMC's dynamic cityscape draws together old and new Vietnam in the most compact of spaces, representing the city’s past as well as its future.

Walk down Dong Khoi Street to acquaint yourself with the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city's Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. On a more local level, Ben Thanh Market and the Jade Emperor Pagoda are worth a visit.

Ho Chi Minh City has consistent temperatures year-round, and the weather is generally warm. Photo: Vietnamnomad

The Chinese neighborhood known as Cho Lon is great for exploring on foot. Head for Binh Tay Market, a colossal wholesale trading center, and Thien Hau Pagoda, an atmospheric temple that pays homage to the goddess of the sea.

Ho Chi Minh City locals love to gather around dented metal tables across the city for incredible roadside feasts. Don't miss highlights such as bánh mì, southern-style savory pancakes (Banh Xeo), and broken rice (Com Tam).

Ho Chi Minh City has consistent temperatures year-round, and the weather is generally warm. Heatwaves hit the city from April to May, welcoming the rainy season from May to November. Slightly cooler temperatures emerge in December and January.

Hanoi

Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history, with the streets of its rambling Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Wandering these tree-lined lanes past crumbling colonial facades will transport you back in time. However, today's Hanoi is about much more than the past. The ancient city is being invigorated with modern cafes, world-class restaurants, and cool art galleries.

For an authentic taste of Hanoi, look to the street kitchens of the Old Quarter. Steaming pots of its star anise-infused Pho broth simmer on every corner; while every day, the scent of Bun Cha fills the air as barbecued pork sizzles over hot coals.

Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history, with the streets of its rambling Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Photo: Vietnam Tourism

Hanoi’s Old Quarter serves up a sensory overload. Wisps of incense drift out onto streets from ancient temples, while the clang of blacksmiths’ hammers mingles with mobile fruit sellers’ calls. Jump in a cyclo and tour this intoxicating maze.

Hanoi is Vietnam’s art capital. The elegant Fine Arts Museum houses the country’s foremost collection, such as ancient Cham artifacts and impressionist pieces. For something more contemporary, head for Manzi or the Vietnam Art Gallery.

Hanoi is most inviting from April to June, but the capital is particularly beautiful in May when trees suddenly come into bloom. September and October are also excellent months to visit as temperatures cool and the sky clears.

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