Vietnam vs Cambodia: Pick the Destination That Matches Your Travel Dreams

Vietnam vs Cambodia often becomes a real decision point for Indian travelers planning a Southeast Asia trip. Vietnam stretches across nearly 2,000 kilometers, offering busy cities, mountain regions, long coastlines, and a travel pace that stays active from morning to night. Cambodia feels quieter and more reflective, shaped by ancient temples, rural landscapes, and a rhythm that moves more slowly and deeply into history.

Both countries sit side by side, share a border, and welcome Indian tourists with ease. This Vietnam vs Cambodia travel guide compares weather, attractions, costs, and visa rules, helping you choose the destination that fits your expectations for a 2026 trip.

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Quick Comparison Overview

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The comparison below highlights the key differences between Vietnam and Cambodia, making it easier to judge costs, travel pace, and practical details before deciding where to go.

Category	Vietnam	Cambodia
Budget (5 days)	₹35,000–₹55,000+ per person	₹30,000–₹45,000+ per person
Best For	Food lovers, city explorers, beach seekers	Temple enthusiasts, history buffs, slow travelers
Visa	E-Visa (90 days), ₹2,200–₹4,400	E-Visa or Visa on Arrival (30 days), ₹2,500–₹3,000
Currency	Vietnamese Dong (VND); INR 1 = ~340 VND	Cambodian Riel (KHR) & US Dollar; INR 1 = ~48 KHR
Language	Vietnamese (English in tourist areas)	Khmer (English widely spoken in tourist zones)
Best Season	November–April	November–February
Ideal Duration	10–14 days	7–10 days

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Best Time to Visit Vietnam vs Cambodia

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Weather affects comfort, travel flow, and sightseeing more than many expect. The best time to visit Vietnam vs Cambodia helps you avoid heavy rain, extreme heat, and disrupted plans.

Vietnam Weather Patterns

Vietnam’s weather shifts noticeably from north to south. Three distinct climate zones shape travel conditions, so timing depends on the regions you plan to visit.

Season	Months	Temperature	Climate	Humidity	Highlights
Cool & Dry (North)	Nov – Feb	15°C – 22°C	Cool, occasional drizzle	Moderate	Scenic Ha Long Bay, fewer crowds
Warm & Dry (North)	Mar – Apr, Sep – Nov	17°C – 28°C	Pleasant	Low	Best time for Hanoi, Sapa treks
Dry (Central)	Jan – Aug	21°C – 35°C	Warm to hot	Moderate	Ideal for Hoi An, Da Nang beaches
Dry (South)	Nov – Apr	25°C – 32°C	Hot, sunny	Low	Best for Ho Chi Minh, Mekong Delta
Wet (Nationwide)	May – Oct	24°C – 33°C	Rainy	High	Afternoon showers, lush landscapes, lower prices

Northern Vietnam turns cooler between December and February, with temperatures sometimes falling below 15°C. Central Vietnam experiences rough weather from September through November due to typhoons. Southern Vietnam remains warm year-round, though the wetter months bring frequent afternoon showers.

Cambodia Weather Patterns

Cambodia follows a simpler weather pattern with two clear seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, offering blue skies and comfortable temperatures. The wet season lasts from May to October, with brief afternoon showers that usually pass within an hour or two

Season	Months	Temperature	Climate	Humidity	Highlights
Cool & Dry	Nov – Feb	21°C – 28°C	Pleasant	Low	Best weather, peak tourist season, ideal for temples
Hot & Dry	Mar – Apr	28°C – 40°C	Scorching	Moderate	Intense heat, fewer tourists, Khmer New Year
Wet	May – Oct	24°C – 32°C	Rainy	High	Afternoon showers, lush greenery, water-filled temple moats

December through February brings the most comfortable weather for visiting temples and spending long hours outdoors. March and April turn intensely hot, which makes sightseeing tiring during the day. 

The wet season still appeals to some travelers, with lighter crowds and water-filled moats around the Angkor temples adding visual appeal.

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Top Places to Visit in Vietnam vs Cambodia

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Where you spend your time matters as much as the country you choose. Vietnam and Cambodia offer very different highlights, and each one shapes your travel route in its own way.

Must-Visit Places in Vietnam

• Hanoi: The capital draws you in quickly with its constant motion and layered history. The Old Quarter’s 36 streets trace trades from centuries ago. Egg coffee, thick and custard-like, originated here. The Temple of Literature, founded in 1070, reflects Vietnam’s scholarly past.
• Ha Long Bay: Nearly 2,000 limestone islands rise from calm green waters. Overnight cruises allow time for kayaking through caves, swimming in quiet coves, and early mornings wrapped in mist.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly known as Saigon, this city moves at a fast pace. French-era buildings stand beside modern towers. The War Remnants Museum presents powerful accounts of recent history. Rooftop bars offer wide views across the city.
• Hoi An: Lanterns glow along the Thu Bon River each evening. Tailor shops produce custom clothing within a day. The Japanese Covered Bridge has linked the old town since the 16th century.

Must-Visit Places in Cambodia

• Siem Reap: This city serves as the base for visiting Angkor. Evenings bring energy to Pub Street, while the Phare Cambodian Circus blends acrobatics with traditional storytelling.
• Angkor Wat: The world’s largest religious monument rewards slow exploration. Sunrise lights the towers in gold tones. Long bas-reliefs stretch across the galleries, showing scenes from Hindu epics.
• Phnom Penh: The capital balances royal heritage with modern growth. The Royal Palace complex includes the Silver Pagoda, known for its silver-tiled floor. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum documents Cambodia’s recent past with care and restraint.
• Koh Rong: White sand beaches and clear water define this island. Bioluminescent plankton glows in the shallows after dark. Development remains limited compared to larger regional beach hubs.

The top places to visit in Vietnam vs Cambodia reveal very different travel styles. Vietnam offers busy cities and coastal scenery across long distances. Cambodia centers on heritage sites and relaxed island escapes.

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Activities and Experiences Compared

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Daily activities influence how each trip feels far more than hotels or transport. This Vietnam vs Cambodia holiday comparison focuses on how each country keeps you occupied, from land-based adventures to time spent on the water.

Vietnam Adventure Activities

Vietnam spreads its activities across a wide range of terrain. Northern regions around Sapa support multi-day treks through rice terraces and hill tribe villages. Central Vietnam adds scale through the cave systems of Phong Nha, where massive underground chambers rank among the largest on the planet. 

Coastal routes like the Hai Van Pass deliver long motorbike rides with sweeping sea views and constant elevation changes, making movement part of the experience.

Cambodia Adventure Activities

Cambodia concentrates most land adventures around a few key regions. Areas outside Siem Reap offer quad biking through countryside villages and zip-line courses near the outer edges of the Angkor temple zone. 

Remote regions like the Cardamom Mountains focus on wildlife and forest-based experiences, with an emphasis on conservation and slower exploration rather than distance-heavy travel.

Vietnam Water Activities

Vietnam’s long coastline keeps water activities close throughout the country. Nha Trang draws divers to coral reefs located minutes from shore. River life takes over in the Mekong Delta, where boat trips pass floating markets and canals lined with stilted homes. 

Surf culture continues to grow around Da Nang, where wave conditions suit beginners as well as experienced surfers.

Cambodia Water Activities

Cambodia’s water experiences revolve around inland lakes and select island destinations. Tonle Sap Lake expands dramatically during the monsoon, supporting floating villages with homes, schools, and shops built entirely on water. 

Coastal escapes like Koh Rong offer warm, clear water suited for easy snorkeling. River kayaking near Battambang passes rice paddies and traditional wooden houses, adding a rural feel to time spent on the water.

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Food and Cuisine Differences

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Food plays a major role in daily travel across both countries. Vietnam and Cambodia take very different approaches to flavor, ingredients, and dining style, which becomes clear after just a few meals.

Vietnam Culinary and Dining Experience

Vietnamese food focuses on balance and freshness, with rice, herbs, and slow-cooked broths forming the base of most meals. French influence appears through bread and coffee, while regional variation keeps flavors changing as you move across the country.

• Pho appears on daily menus across Vietnam, combining rice noodles with beef or chicken in a light, fragrant broth
• Banh mi fills crisp baguettes with pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and grilled meat
• Regional cooking styles change noticeably between northern, central, and southern Vietnam
• Street food meals usually cost ₹100–150 and are often eaten on small plastic stools
• Coffee culture includes egg coffee in Hanoi and iced condensed milk coffee in the south
• Cooking classes focus on spring rolls, dipping sauces, and herb balance
• Night markets sell grilled seafood, noodles, and fruit-based desserts

Cambodia Culinary and Dining Experience

Cambodian food feels earthier and more rustic, shaped by freshwater fish, rice, and fermented ingredients. Dishes remain less complex than Vietnamese cuisine but carry a strong local identity and comfort.

• Prahok, a fermented fish paste, forms the backbone of many Khmer dishes
• Amok features fish cooked in coconut curry and steamed inside banana leaves
• Lok lak offers stir-fried beef served with a lime and black pepper dipping sauce
• Street food dishes usually cost ₹80–200 across most towns
• Pub Street in Siem Reap mixes Khmer food with international options
• Kampot pepper appears widely and holds global recognition
• Fried tarantulas appear as a novelty snack, though they are not part of daily eating

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Transportation and Getting Around

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Daily travel affects both your budget and energy levels throughout the trip. Vietnam offers a wider mix of transport options across long distances, while Cambodia keeps movement simpler due to its smaller size.

Vietnam Transportation

Vietnam stretches from north to south, so travel planning matters. Flights, trains, buses, and motorbikes all play a role, depending on time and budget.

• Domestic flights connect major cities in under two hours and often cost under ₹3,000 when booked early
• Overnight trains with sleeper berths reduce hotel costs while covering long distances
• Long-distance buses operate nationwide and suit budget-focused travel
• Grab works across major cities, removing the need for fare negotiation
• Motorbike rentals cost around ₹300–500 per day and allow flexible local travel
• Trains from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City take over 30 hours and pass through scenic regions
• Ferries connect coastal islands, with schedules changing by season

Cambodia Transportation

Cambodia feels easier to cover since distances remain shorter. Road travel handles most routes, with tuk-tuks playing a major role inside cities.

• Buses connect Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville on well-maintained highways
• Tuk-tuks dominate city travel and work well for temple visits and short distances
• Full-day Angkor temple tours by tuk-tuk usually cost ₹1,500–2,000
• PassApp and Grab operate in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with fixed pricing
• Intercity buses cost around ₹500–1,200 and take five to seven hours
• Ferries to nearby islands leave from Sihanoukville and take 45 minutes to two hours

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Budget Comparison: Vietnam vs Cambodia Costs in 2026

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Money plays a clear role in trip planning, and knowing the Vietnam vs Cambodia travel cost helps set realistic expectations. The breakdown below outlines typical expenses across different budgets, making it easier to plan your spending.

Category	Vietnam (per day)	Cambodia (per day)
Budget Travel	₹1,250 – ₹4,100+	₹1,100 – ₹7,200+
Accommodation (Budget)	₹500 – ₹1,500+	₹500 – ₹1,200+
Food	₹100 – ₹800+	₹80 – ₹700+
Transportation (Local)	₹150 – ₹400+	₹100 – ₹300+
Activities	₹500 – ₹2,000+	₹400 – ₹5,500+ (Angkor pass included)
Total	₹1,250 – ₹4,700+	₹1,080 – ₹7,700+

The Vietnam vs Cambodia expensive or cheap depends solely on how you travel and what you choose to prioritize. The daily expenses can stay around ₹2,000–2,500 if you stick to budget stays, street food, and local transport. A more comfortable mid-range trip usually lands between ₹4,000 and ₹6,000 per day. 

The main gap appears in attraction fees. Angkor Wat’s three-day pass costs about ₹5,100, while most sights in Vietnam charge ₹200–500. 

Even with these differences, both countries offer strong value for money. Compared with destinations in Europe or Australia, neither Vietnam nor Cambodia places heavy pressure on your travel budget.

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Visa Requirements for Indian Travellers

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Indian passport holders can visit both countries without running around for consulate appointments. Here’s what each destination requires.

Vietnam Visa Process: E-Visa (90 days)

Indians must apply for an e-visa before traveling to Vietnam. The processing takes 3-5 working days. Your passport needs at least six months of validity from your arrival date.

Print your approved e-visa before departure. Immigration officers at airports and land borders accept e-visas at designated entry points. The extensions require visiting the Immigration Department in Vietnam.

Cambodia Visa Process: E-Visa or Visa on Arrival (30 days)

Cambodia offers Indian passport holders two visa options. You can apply for an e-visa that arrives by email within about three business days, or choose a visa on arrival at international airports and major land borders.

All air travelers must complete the Cambodia e-Arrival Card online within seven days before arrival. This free digital form replaces the earlier paper documents. Visa extensions of up to 90 days are available through the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh.

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Vietnam vs Cambodia: Which Destination Should You Choose?

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Your choice comes down to how you like to spend your days on the road. Vietnam fits travelers who want constant variety, with beaches, mountain regions, and energetic cities all part of one trip. Cambodia appeals to those who prefer a slower rhythm, where temple visits take center stage and evenings unfold in relaxed towns.

You also have the option to visit both. Overland buses link Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh in about six hours, and short flights connect major cities in under two hours. 

Many travelers start with a week or more in Vietnam, then continue into Cambodia for Angkor and the surrounding areas. A combined trip works well when time and budget allow, giving you a broader view of the region without rushing.

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FAQs

Which is cheaper for Indian travelers, Vietnam vs Cambodia?

In the Vietnam vs Cambodia expensive or cheap comparison, Cambodia often edges out on daily costs, though the Angkor Wat pass adds a one-time expense. Vietnam balances this with very low street food prices and attractions spread over several days.

How many days do you need for Vietnam vs Cambodia?

Vietnam works best with 10–14 days to cover the north, central coast, and south comfortably. Cambodia fits into 7–10 days, with most time spent around Siem Reap, Angkor, and Phnom Penh. Shorter trips often feel rushed in both countries.

Can you combine Vietnam and Cambodia in one trip?

Yes, many travelers do exactly that. The buses link Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, and short flights connect major cities on both sides. A common plan includes about ten days in Vietnam followed by five to seven days in Cambodia, with separate visas arranged in advance.

Is Vietnam or Cambodia safer for solo travelers?

Both countries feel welcoming to solo travelers, including women. Vietnam offers stronger tourist infrastructure and transport apps in major cities. Cambodia remains safe in popular areas, though services feel simpler, so basic precautions help in crowded places.

Which destination is better for first-time travelers to Southeast Asia?

Vietnam often feels easier for first-time visitors due to smooth transport, modern airports, and widely accepted food options. Cambodia rewards patience with deep historical experiences and quieter towns. A combined Vietnam vs Cambodia trip gives a well-rounded first look at the region.