Hanoi witnessed a surge of excitement as nearly 500 tourists, the vanguard of a massive 5,500-strong contingent from India, touched down in Vietnam, marking the largest MICE group ever from the country to visit the S-shaped nation.
Rolling Out the Red Carpet for the Massive MICE Group
 |
| Indian tourists embarked on their journey in Hanoi by visiting the Temple of Literature. Photo: Hoai Nam/ The Hanoi Times |
As per a VietTravel report to the Hanoi Tourism Department, the 5,500-strong Indian delegation will arrive in smaller batches from August 27 to September 7.
These visitors are employees of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., hailing from diverse countries, predominantly India. They are classified as high-spending tourists, and their services were booked two to three months in advance. The company is owned by one of India’s top five billionaires, who is also part of this traveling group.
The Indian tourist group is exploring Vietnam as per a carefully crafted itinerary, taking in the sights of Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh Province before returning to Hanoi for their stay. At present, 11 five-star hotels in the capital are playing host to this massive group.
These hotels have gone the extra mile to cater to these special guests. Many have hired Indian chefs and imported authentic ingredients to offer a diverse menu of traditional Indian cuisine. Additionally, some Vietnamese specialties like beef rice noodle soup, rice vermicelli with fish, fish cakes, and Vong Village green rice flakes for dessert have been included for a touch of local flavor.
 |
| Indian tourists delving into Vietnamese culture at the Temple of Literature. Photo: Hoai Nam / The Hanoi Times |
The Hanoi Tourism Department has instructed local sites to collaborate with tour operators to organize priority sightseeing routes and dedicated ticket counters for the group, ensuring their safety and convenience during their stay.
The 11 five-star hotels accommodating the group have been advised to enhance their facilities while maintaining stringent safety, order, fire prevention, and food hygiene protocols.
On August 27, the first subgroup of nearly 500 tourists checked into Hanoi and took up residence at the Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha Hotel.
Nguyen Viet Thu, Cluster Director of Sales & Distribution at Novotel Hanoi, commended the efficient reception and check-in process, which left the tourists happy and satisfied. She attributed this success to the warm welcome extended by the hotel staff.
“Our guests also warmly greeted our staff with ‘hello’ in Vietnamese, expressing their appreciation and friendliness,” she added.
 |
| Melia Hanoi Hotel played host to a gala dinner for the Indian tourists. Photo courtesy of Melia Hanoi Hotel |
Meliá Hanoi, with its 306 rooms and prime downtown location, was the choice of accommodation for three of the six subgroups, each occupying over 300 rooms. The hotel will also be the venue for five gala dinners for the group.
“We have a rich history of hosting large-scale MICE events,” shared Antiago Cabre, general manager of Meliá Hanoi. “However, catering to the religious and cultural beliefs of Indian tourists is a challenge we embrace.”
To offer an authentic experience, Meliá Hanoi hired an Indian chef to collaborate with their culinary team. The menu features a diverse range of dishes, including chicken, goat, beans, lentils, vegetables, and fruits, seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs. These are accompanied by white rice and breads such as roti and naan.
 |
| Halal food presented to Indian tourists, showcasing Meliá Hanoi Hotel’s attention to cultural details. Photo courtesy of Meliá Hanoi Hotel |
Hanoi’s Attractions Captivate Indian Visitors
In the afternoon, the Indian tourists were divided into smaller groups to explore Hanoi’s iconic attractions, including the Hoa Lo Prison Relic, Temple of Literature, Ba Dinh Square, and other cultural sites.
According to Le Xuan Kieu, director of Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities, this massive group of tourists required careful planning for reception and management. The visitors primarily explored the exhibition areas of the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy.
A representative from Vietravel, the group’s transportation provider, shared that they had prepared a fleet of modern and luxurious tourist buses to ensure the comfort of the visitors during their journey to each destination on the itinerary.
Seizing Opportunities with the Indian Market
 |
| Indian tourists delving into Vietnam’s history at the Hoa Lo Prison Relic Site. Photo: Hoai Nam / The Hanoi Times |
According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), Vietnam welcomed over 392,000 Indian arrivals in 2023, a substantial increase of 231% compared to 2019. This momentum continued into 2024, with the country receiving 231,000 Indian arrivals in the first six months, reflecting a remarkable 164% year-on-year growth.
These impressive figures solidify India’s position as one of Vietnam’s top 10 international tourist markets. Vietnam is clearly a destination of choice for a significant wave of Indian travelers.
VNAT Vice Chairman Ha Van Sieu emphasized the rapid growth of the Indian market and its immense potential for Vietnam’s tourism industry. The 4,500-member group is a testament to this potential.
Experts agree that Vietnam’s convenient location and flight routes give it a competitive edge in attracting this market segment. Additionally, Vietnam’s diverse culture, cuisine, and natural resources make it an attractive and fresh destination for Indian travelers.
 |
| Indian tourists strike a pose with local travelers at Hanoi’s iconic Temple of Literature. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times |
Nguyen Viet Thu from Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha Hotel underscored the rapid growth of the Indian tourist market and its positive impact on Vietnam’s tourism development.
She noted that Indian tourists often opt for high-end four- and five-star services but also have unique trends, needs, and tastes, especially when it comes to cuisine.
Santiago Cabre, general manager of Meliá Hanoi, observed a significant increase in Indian guests at the hotel compared to the same period in 2023. He attributed this to the advantage of direct flights and Vietnam’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
“Indian tourists are considered high-end travelers, and we are optimistic that they will boost spending on travel services and shopping in Hanoi and its neighboring provinces,” he added.
Vietnam’s successful hosting of the 4,500-strong Indian tourist group presents a significant opportunity for localities to enhance their service quality and revenue from MICE visitors. Hanoi, in particular, with its well-prepared accommodation facilities, reinforces its position as a leading center for MICE tourism.
The majestic beauty of sacred Yen Tu Mountain
Yen Tu Mountain is located in the northeast of Vietnam, in Uong Bi city, Quang Ninh province, about 50km from Ha Long Bay and about 110km from Hanoi capital.
National Tourism Year 2018 to open on April 28 in Ha Long
NDO – The opening ceremony of the National Tourism Year 2018 is scheduled to be held at Sun Carnival Square in Ha Long city, the northern province of Quang Ninh on April 28.
Ha Long – a new city rises next to a world heritage
Rising next to Ha Long Bay, which has twice been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list, Ha Long is a standout tourism city in northern Vietnam with modern infrastructure, stunning natural scenery, and steady socio-economic development.
Along the most beautiful coastal road in Vietnam
The windy and sunny area of Ninh Thuan lures visitors with its long charming beaches from Ca Na to Ninh Chu, Vinh Hy and Binh Tien. The 80km coastline running from Ca Na beach to Binh Lap peninsula in Ninh Thuan with its wild and beautiful landscapes is regarded as one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Vietnam.
Cruising Ha Long Bay
Touring Ha Long by boat has now become the best way for both domestic and foreign tourists who wish to explore the beauty of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and a new natural wonder of the world.
