Backpacking trip to Vietnam - Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Sapa

3/3/2025

Backpacking trip to Vietnam

I gifted myself a backing trip to Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) after taking the bold step of quitting my job as a software engineer. I opted for budget-friendly destinations to extend my trip for five long weeks without any income in my account for the next one year. I was particularly eager to spend ample time in Vietnam, as I could relate its diverse landscapes to India. From the majestic mountains to the arid deserts, from the historic heritage sites to the lush forests, from the river deltas to the picturesque coastal stretches, from the islands to the tropical lowlands, Vietnam offered a breathtaking tapestry of natural beauty. While immersing myself in the rich cultural heritage and exploring the country’s wonders, adventure also held a special place in my heart. I began my journey in Ho Chi Minh City and ventured northward, covering the following destinations:

1. Vinh Long - River Island in Mekong Delta

The Mekong River Delta in southern Vietnam was my first destination after arriving in Ho Chi Minh City. Three provinces—Bến Tre, Vĩnh Long, and Cần Thơ—are popular among tourists. I decided to explore Vĩnh Long, which is conveniently accessible by bus from Ho Chi Minh City. A short ferry ride took me to An Binh, a picturesque green island located on the Tien River in Vinh Long province.
An Binh is home to the ethnic Viet people and offers a glimpse into their simple lifestyle. I stayed with the locals in a homestay and spent my days exploring the island, observing the locals’ daily routines, and taking a boat ride to the nearby floating market of Cai Be.

Vinh Long - River Island in Mekong Delta

2. Scuba Diving in Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam’s Scuba Diving hub, was a must-visit for me. As an advanced open water diver, I sought new challenges to enhance my skills and experience. While the nearby waters aren’t renowned for their marine life, I was eager to explore Vietnam’s diverse dive sites. The islands of Indonesia, Andaman and Lakshadweep had already left me in awe, but Nha Trang’s dive sites offered a unique experience. I relished the opportunity to dive in strong currents, a skill I hadn’t encountered before.
Beyond the diving, Nha Trang town exuded a laid-back charm. Its beautiful bay, white sand beaches, and vibrant bars and boutiques provided a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Scuba Diving in Nha Trang, Vietnam

3. Hoi An - UNESCO World Heritage Site

To explore Vietnam’s heritage, I visited Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Dutch architectural influences. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by this charming town adorned with creative Vietnamese lanterns. The town’s garden cafes served the best Vietnamese coffee I’ve ever tasted, enhancing my overall experience. I stayed in a cozy homestay nestled on the banks of a picturesque river that flows through the town. A short stroll through the fields led me to a breathtaking beach with majestic mountains in the background. The boutiques in the central town offered exquisite tailor-made replicas of high-end brands, leaving me in a state of delight. The heart of the town was filled with charming cafes overlooking the river, where artists performed live music under the twinkling lantern-lit streets. I can’t help but dream of returning to this enchanting town and spending a few months immersed in its beauty and tranquility.

Hoi An - UNESCO World Heritage Site

4. Trekking through rice terraces in Sapa

Sapa, a picturesque town nestled in the northern mountains near the Chinese border, was another captivating adventure destination in Vietnam. Inhabited by the Hmong ethnic Vietnamese tribe, Sapa offered a unique experience for me. I trekked to the Taphin village, where I stayed overnight in a homestay with the friendly local family. As the closest ethnic Vietnamese community to the Chinese border, they resembled Chinese people, adding to the cultural immersion.
The family treated me to delicious local cuisine, and I eagerly learned to use chopsticks, a skill I had been unconsciously practicing during my previous trips to Southeast Asia. As I explored the village, I marveled at the stunning cherry blossoms and breathtaking mountain views. The lady guide accompanied me, sharing insights and pointing out picturesque landmarks.
With a final goodbye, the lady guided me to the main trail, from which I descended to the town of Lao Can. There, I boarded a bus to Laos, leaving Sapa with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the cultural diversity of Vietnam.

Trekking through rice terraces in Sapa, Vietnam

Backpacking in Vietnam offered a diverse range of experiences, including trekking, scuba diving, exploring heritage and culture, savoring local cuisine and Vietnamese coffees, staying in homestays, and discovering picturesque locations. However, I feel I haven’t fully captured the essence of the country, as it has much more to offer beyond the destinations I visited.

If backpacking isn’t your preferred travel style, you can opt for Vietnam Tour Packages to plan your trip.

How to Travel to Vietnam:

I took the low-cost Air Asia flight from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City, with a layover in Malaysia. If you have time in Malaysia before heading to Vietnam, I highly recommend exploring Kota Kinabalu. You can book a Budget Hotel in Kota Kinabalu through a reliable hotel booking platform.

Visa requirements for Vietnam for Indians:

Vietnam has Visa on Arrival for Indian passport holders, with a visa approval letter which can be obtained through an online application with any of the online agent platforms. Once you have the approval letter, the visa will be stamped on arrival. The agents have a fixed application fee; however, they can charge a surcharge if you need the approval letter during any of their holiday seasons (mainly during the Chinese New Year holiday season).