Vietnam is stepping up its efforts to attract Indian travelers, spotlighting its diverse tourism offerings and enhanced connectivity at a promotional program in Hyderabad on September 9. Organized by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) in collaboration with the Vietnam Tourism Development Fund, the Vietnam National Music and Dance Theater, and Van Hoa Newspaper, the event underscored the country’s growing ties with India’s outbound travel market.
Hyderabad—a key economic and cultural hub in India—was selected as the venue given its increasing role as a source market for international travel. The Vietnamese delegation, led by VNAT Vice Chairman Pham Van Thuy, included representatives from local tourism boards, Vietnam Airlines, and leading service providers. The program drew strong participation from Indian travel companies, cultural organizations, and media stakeholders.
Rising Visitor Numbers
In his address, Pham Van Thuy noted India’s deep cultural heritage and long-standing ties with Vietnam, highlighting tourism as a vital part of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2016.
“Vietnam is committed to creating favorable conditions for Indian visitors, with simplified e-visa procedures, multiple-entry visas valid for up to 90 days, and a growing aviation network connecting major cities in both countries,” he said. “With a safe, friendly environment and welcoming people, we aim to ensure a complete and memorable experience for Indian travelers.”
Vietnam welcomed 392,000 Indian visitors in 2023, climbing to 507,000 in 2024. Between January and August 2025 alone, arrivals reached 443,000—an increase of 42.2% over the same period last year—underscoring India’s position as one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing source markets.
Tailored Offerings for the Indian Market
The Hyderabad program spotlighted Vietnam’s appeal beyond its natural landscapes and UNESCO-listed heritage sites, with a focus on tourism products customized for Indian travelers. These include MICE tourism, destination weddings, spiritual and cultural tours connected to Buddhism, and adventure experiences.
Air connectivity has also expanded rapidly, with around 100 direct flights weekly between India and Vietnam. The growing presence of Indian restaurants in destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Da Nang, Hoi An, Khanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City further enhances comfort and familiarity for Indian visitors.
Business and Cultural Exchange
A key feature of the event was a B2B networking session that brought together nearly 30 Vietnamese travel companies with some 200 Indian industry delegates. The discussions centered on product innovation, incentive policies, and collaborative ventures to meet rising demand.
Complementing the business agenda were cultural performances by artists from the Vietnam National Music and Dance Theater, showcasing traditional instruments such as the two-string fiddle, monochord, bamboo flute, and T’rung. Symbolic gift exchanges between Vietnamese enterprises and Indian partners concluded the event, signaling mutual appreciation and a commitment to deeper cooperation.
Strengthening Market Presence
The Hyderabad initiative forms part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets. By blending destination promotion with cultural engagement and industry networking, Vietnam aims to position itself as a leading choice for Indian travelers seeking both leisure and business experiences in Southeast Asia.
