Vietnam: a rising star for Indian travelers seeking new horizons

Taking off to one of the world’s best cities

After a smooth 8-hour journey—4 to 5 hours of flying from India plus a short transfer to Da Nang via Hanoi—travelers arrive in the vibrant Han River city. The first afternoon is ideal for soaking in the city’s energy and checking in at the must-visit sites across Da Nang.

The Love Bridge, with its hundreds of padlocks symbolizing eternal devotion, is a romantic favorite among Indian honeymooners. The iconic Dragon Bridge, meanwhile, offers two equally exciting views: a golden morning glow reflected on the water, and the fire-and-water show on weekend evenings that never fails to dazzle.

Right in the middle of it all stands Novotel Danang Premier Han River, a five-star hotel on the city’s western riverbank. With a prime location in the heart of Da Nang’s center, the hotel is both a convenient launchpad for exploration and a peaceful sanctuary amid the city buzz.

The hotel is also praised for its buffet, complete with vegetarian and Halal-friendly options. Guests can also dine à la carte at The Square, where several dishes are adapted for Indian tastes. Beyond the hotel, Da Nang is home to several popular Indian restaurants—including Rang, a Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024 recipient, and the cozy, budget-friendly Mumtaz Indian Aroma, known for its wide-ranging menu.

After dinner, guests can head to Sky36—the tallest rooftop bar in the city, located on the 36th floor of Novotel Danang Premier Han River. Here, Indian snacks meet DJ beats and LED lights, all set against panoramic views of the city’s skyline and river below.

Above the clouds to a “miniature Europe” in the mountains

The next day is all about Ba Na Hills—a dreamlike destination on every traveler’s bucket list. Morning starts with a relaxing round of golf at the Ba Na Hills Golf Club, an international-standard 18-hole course designed by golf legend Luke Donald. The fairways wind through lush green hills and fresh mountain air, offering a refreshing contrast to city life.

Next comes a breathtaking ride on the Guinness World record-breaking cable car system—nearly 6 kilometers in length, carrying guests to altitudes above 1,400 meters. Floating clouds, dense forests, and deep valleys make the ascent unforgettable. At the summit, a medieval-style European village awaits travellers.

One of the favorite stops for Indian visitors is Beer Plaza, a festive venue filled with music, dance, and laughter. For Indian travelers who thrive in group activities, this space is a joyful escape—complete with interactive street performances and cheerful parades at Sun Kingdom.

Lunch is served at Bharata, the only Halal-certified restaurant on the mountain. Its buffet menu features Indian dishes prepared by local chefs, offering comfort food in an extraordinary setting.

In the afternoon, the exploration continues. Guests can stroll the Eclipse Plaza, beneath Renaissance-style vaulted arches and a green glass tower, reminiscent of a mini Louvre or even Vietnam’s Non La. For Indian groups, these expansive, light-filled spaces become perfect backdrops for photos, videos, and relaxed immersion.

The next highlight is the Golden Bridge—a global tourism icon in Vietnam. Designed as a pair of giant stone hands cradling a sky-high walkway, it’s more than architecture—it’s a social media sensation. Indian guests don’t just visit the bridge; they become part of it, capturing moments to bring home and share as a vibrant story of their journey.

Indian travelers often gravitate toward high-energy, dramatic experiences reminiscent of Bollywood blockbusters. The After Glow show fits this desire perfectly. With a 360-degree cabaret stage, over 15 international performers reimagine the tale of Queen Marie Antoinette through fiery choreography, entrancing music, and luxurious rococo costumes. From mysterious character entrances to a climactic queen-versus-queen showdown, it’s a spectacle that leaves lasting impressions.

Dinner at La Crique rounds off the evening with a buffet offering Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Indian-friendly selections. As night falls, the magical vibe of Ba Na Hills continues. Guests can snap a final set of photos under fairy-tale lights before retiring at the French-colonial-inspired Mercure hotel—the only mountain-top accommodation on site.

Continuing the journey to the capital of a thousand years

The third day begins early with a morning flight to Hanoi. By 9 a.m., guests are exploring one of Vietnam’s most culturally rich cities, known for its deep historical significance. Iconic landmarks include the Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dong Xuan Market, Long Bien Bridge, and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake.

A cultural highlight Indian guests particularly look forward to is the water puppet show—an ancient Vietnamese art form. With roots in storytelling and music, it resonates with Indian travelers’ appreciation for performance-based traditions.

Dinner offers a heartwarming return to Indian flavors. Beloved restaurants like Zaika and Namaste Hanoi are known for their inviting ambiance, robust vegetarian and Halal menus, and home-style dishes. After a full day of exploration, this familiar cuisine brings both comfort and closure to the evening.

Wrapping up the journey among natural wonders

The final leg of the journey leads to Ha Long after a scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi. Guests board the Ambassador Cruise II to explore this UNESCO-recognized natural heritage site.

As the cruise meanders past towering limestone formations and jade-green waters, travelers are immersed in Ha Long’s untouched splendor. The serene ambiance and otherworldly views offer a rare moment of reflection—something distinct from typical Indian tourist trails.

In the afternoon, guests visit Sun World Ha Long—a sprawling seaside amusement complex. First up is the Queen Cable Car, a double-decker ride that climbs over 200 meters, granting sweeping views of the bay. It’s a photo-worthy moment that Indian guests often post immediately to social media.

At the summit of Ba Deo, the journey continues through the Sun Wheel, Zen Garden, a fantasy castle, and a wax museum featuring global celebrities. For Indian tourists who love immersive, visual storytelling, these spaces offer a blend of East and West, perfect for discovery and sharing.

In just four days, Indian travelers can weave through Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ha Long—encountering not only iconic landmarks, but also rich layers of Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and hospitality. It’s a deeply textured experience that speaks to India’s visual and emotional style of travel. Vietnam emerges as a fresh yet familiar destination—an invitation thoughtfully crafted for Indian visitors seeking an accessible, unforgettable corner of Southeast Asia.