VNAT’s Vice Chairman Pham Van Thuy at the Roadshow
Vietnam showcased tourism offerings in Hyderabad, highlighting growing arrivals from India, enhanced air links, and tailored products for Indian travelers.
As part of Vietnam’s efforts to expand its presence in the Indian travel market, the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) organized a tourism promotion and networking program in Hyderabad on September 9. The event was conducted in collaboration with the Vietnam Tourism Development Fund, the Vietnam National Music and Dance Theater, and Van Hoa Newspaper. Hyderabad, one of India’s fastest-growing economic and cultural hubs, was chosen to host the program due to its strong potential for outbound travel growth.
The Vietnamese delegation was led by VNAT Vice Chairman Pham Van Thuy, accompanied by representatives from local tourism authorities, Vietnam Airlines, and leading service providers from Vietnam. The program attracted considerable interest, with participants including Indian travel companies, cultural organizations, and media outlets.
Growing visitor flows from India
In his remarks, VNAT’s Vice Chairman Pham Van Thuy highlighted India’s long history, its role as the birthplace of many major religions, particularly Buddhism and its globally recognized cultural heritage. He emphasized that since 2016, when Vietnam and India established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, India has been not only a close friend but also a trusted partner across many fields, including tourism.
“Vietnam is committed to creating favorable conditions for Indian visitors, including e-visa procedures, visas valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entries, and a rapidly expanding aviation network directly linking major cities in both nations. Together with a safe, friendly environment and hospitable people, Vietnam ensures a convenient, complete, and memorable experience for Indian travelers.”, Mr. Thuy stated.
Vietnam welcomed 392,000 Indian visitors in 2023, rising to 507,000 in 2024. Between January and August 2025, the figure had already reached 443,000 arrivals, representing a 42.2% increase compared with the same period in 2024. These numbers demonstrate Vietnam’s growing appeal and the potential for further expansion of bilateral tourism flows.
Mr. Thuy also emphasized government efforts to support Indian travelers. Current measures include simplified e-visa procedures, multiple-entry visas valid for up to 90 days, and improved air connectivity linking key Indian and Vietnamese cities. He stressed that Vietnam aims to offer a safe, convenient, and welcoming environment for visitors from India.
Tailored tourism offerings
The event provided Indian stakeholders with updates on Vietnam’s tourism development, highlighting diverse experiences suitable for the Indian market. In addition to its natural attractions and UNESCO-listed heritage sites, Vietnam is focusing on specialized products such as MICE tourism, destination weddings, cultural and spiritual tours linked to Buddhism, and adventure travel.
Connectivity between the two countries has also expanded significantly. Currently, around 100 direct flights per week operate on India–Vietnam routes, making travel more accessible. At the same time, the presence of Indian restaurants in major Vietnamese destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Da Nang, Hoi An, Khanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City has enhanced comfort for Indian travelers and fostered cultural exchange.
Business networking and cultural exchange
A highlight of the Hyderabad program was the B2B networking session, which brought together nearly 30 Vietnamese travel companies and about 200 Indian industry delegates. Discussions centered on new product development, incentive policies, and potential joint ventures to serve the growing demand for cross-border travel.
Alongside business sessions, the program featured cultural performances by artists from the Vietnam National Music and Dance Theater. Traditional instruments such as the two-string fiddle, monochord, bamboo flute, and T’rung were presented, offering attendees a glimpse of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
The event concluded with the exchange of symbolic gifts between Vietnamese enterprises and Indian partners, reflecting mutual appreciation and the commitment to long-term cooperation.
Expanding market presence
For Vietnam, the Hyderabad initiative forms part of a wider strategy to strengthen its brand presence in India, a market with rising outbound demand and growing interest in Southeast Asia. By combining promotional activities with cultural showcases and B2B sessions, the program sought to deepen industry ties while positioning Vietnam as a preferred destination for Indian travelers.