Indian Outbound Travel Soars — Vietnam Captures Strategic Share

India’s outbound tourism market is experiencing a remarkable boom — driven by an expanding middle class, improved connectivity, and a post-pandemic appetite for new destinations. Vietnam, in particular, has emerged as one of the top beneficiaries of this surge, becoming a preferred choice for Indian travellers seeking both cultural discovery and high-value experiences.

According to the Mastercard Economics Institute, Indian outbound travel to Vietnam surged by 248% compared to 2019 levels — one of the fastest growth rates in Asia. (Livemint, 2025)

In 2024, Vietnam welcomed over 500,000 Indian visitors, a dramatic rise from just 138,000 in 2022. (Vietnam News, 2025) The increase reflects multiple factors:

• Simplified visa policies (including e-visa expansion to 90 countries).

• New direct flight routes from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.

• Affordable travel costs compared to Western destinations, while maintaining high-quality hospitality.

• Strong cultural resonance — shared Asian values, vegetarian and Jain cuisine availability, and a growing number of Indian wedding and MICE inquiries.

In fact, Vietnam is fast becoming the “new Thailand” for Indian travellers, offering a mix of beaches, heritage, and urban leisure — all within 4 to 5 hours of flight time. Industry analysts also note that Gen Z and millennial Indians now prioritize “new, unexplored destinations” and Instagram-worthy cultural immersion, which positions Vietnam perfectly in their mindset.

For B2B operators in India, this shift opens new collaboration models — from co-branded tour products and MICE programs to customised Indochina circuits (Vietnam–Cambodia–Laos). At Anvui Travel, we help Indian partners localize itineraries with cultural understanding, seamless ground handling, and competitive pricing.

As the Indian outbound market continues its explosive growth, Vietnam stands out as a natural next destination for discovery and business collaboration.

👉 Let’s connect to design your next Vietnam or Indochina travel products tailored for the Indian market.