Thailand vs. Vietnam: Which is the Best International Family Trip from Kerala? (2026 Guide)
Are you a family from Kerala planning your next big holiday? Confused between the bustling streets of Bangkok and the scenic beauty of Halong Bay? You are not alone!
Both Thailand and Vietnam are trending top destinations for Malayali travelers. They offer exciting culture, kid-friendly activities, and great value for money. But they differ significantly in visa rules, flight connectivity from Kochi, and food options.
This deep-dive comparison will help you decide which destination suits your family best, so you can book your Tourfly package with confidence.
Quick Verdict: At a Glance
Best for “First-Time” International Travelers: Thailand. (Shorter flights, Visa-Free entry*, and very Indian-tourist friendly).
Best for “Adventure & Nature” Lovers: Vietnam. (Cruises, cooler weather options, and unique landscapes).
Visa Status for Indians:
Thailand: Visa-Free (Current temporary exemption scheme).
Vietnam: E-Visa (Easy online process) OR Visa-Free (Only for Phu Quoc Island).
Ideal Duration: 4 Days (Thailand) vs. 5-7 Days (Vietnam).
1. Visa & Entry: The “Hassle-Free” Factor
Thailand (The Winner for Ease): Great news for Kerala tourists! Currently, Thailand offers Visa-Free entry for Indian passport holders (under temporary schemes).
Note: Always check the latest validity dates with Tourfly before flying, as government policies can change.
Vietnam (The “Easy Online” Option): While not fully visa-free (unless you visit Phu Quoc Island exclusively), Vietnam has a very smooth E-Visa system.
Process: You apply online, pay a small fee, and get the visa PDF in 3-5 working days.
Tourfly Tip: When you book a group tour with us, we guide you through the E-Visa process so you don’t have to worry about rejections.
2. Flights from Kochi (COK): Which is Easier?
Keywords: Flights from Kochi to Bangkok, Cochin to Vietnam flight time
Thailand (Bangkok/Phuket):
Connectivity: Excellent. Multiple airlines operate direct or short-connection flights from Kochi (COK) to Bangkok (DMK/BKK).
Time: Approx 4–5 hours.
Why it wins: Shorter travel time means less cranky kids!
Vietnam (Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh/Da Nang):
Connectivity: Usually requires one stop (via Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, or Singapore).
Time: 7–10 hours total travel time.
Tip: If you are traveling with elderly parents or infants, the longer transit might be tiring.
3. Budget: How Much Does it Cost from Kerala?
Keywords: Budget international trips from Kerala, cheap tour packages from Cochin
Thailand (4 Days / 3 Nights):
Estimated Cost: ₹35,000 – ₹55,000 per person.
Includes: Flights (Economy), 4★ Hotel, Sightseeing, Transfers.
Vietnam (6 Days / 5 Nights):
Estimated Cost: ₹65,000 – ₹85,000 per person.
Why the difference? Vietnam trips are usually longer (you need more days to see the North and South), and flight tickets from Kochi can be slightly higher due to connections.
Pro Tip: Looking for the cheapest option? Our Thailand Group Departures from Kochi are unbeatable in price because we bulk-book flights!
4. Food & Comfort: Will My Family Get “Nadan” Food?
Keywords: Indian food in Thailand, Vegetarian food in Vietnam
Thailand (The “Comfort” Zone):
Food: You will find Indian restaurants everywhere—from Bangkok to Pattaya. Whether you want Dal Fry, Dosa, or Biryani, it’s available.
Vibe: Very touristy. English is widely understood in tourist hubs.
Vietnam (The “Foodie” Adventure):
Food: Vietnamese food (Pho, Banh Mi) is delicious but different.
For Malayalis: In big cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Indian restaurants are available.
However, in remote areas (like Halong Bay or Sapa), Indian food options are limited. Tourfly Promise: On our Vietnam group tours, we pre-arrange Indian meals for our groups so you never miss the taste of home!
| Feature | Thailand 🇹🇭 | Vietnam 🇻🇳 |
| Kids’ Favorites | Safari World, Sea Life Ocean World, Coral Island speedboats. | Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge), Basket Boat rides, Water Puppet shows. |
| Best For Parents | Shopping in Pratunam, Thai Massages, Beach relaxation. | Halong Bay Cruises, Hoi An Ancient Town (Lanterns), History museums. |
| Nightlife | Vibrant, busy, and loud walking streets. | Chill night markets, riverside cafes, and lantern boat rides. |
6. Sample Itineraries for Kerala Families
Option A: The Classic Thailand Escape (5 Days)
Day 1: Fly Kochi → Bangkok. Evening Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise.
Day 2: Safari World & Marine Park (Kids love this!).
Day 3: Fly to Phuket/Pattaya. Beach relaxation.
Day 4: Coral Island Tour with water sports.
Day 5: Shopping at MBK/Indra Square → Fly back to Kochi.
Option B: The Vietnam Discovery (7 Days)
Day 1: Fly Kochi → Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2: Mekong Delta Tour (Rowing boats through coconut canals).
Day 3: Fly to Da Nang → Visit the stunning Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge.
Day 4: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town (Great for photos!).
Day 5: Fly to Hanoi.
Day 6: Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay (A once-in-a-lifetime experience).
Day 7: Return to Hanoi → Fly home.
7. Which Should You Choose?
Choose Thailand if: ✅ You want a short, budget-friendly trip (under ₹50k). ✅ You are traveling with small kids or elderly parents who prefer direct flights. ✅ You want guaranteed Indian/Kerala food options easily.
Choose Vietnam if: ✅ You have 7+ days and a slightly higher budget. ✅ You love nature, scenery, and “Instagram-worthy” landscapes (like the Golden Hand Bridge).
Ready to Fly from Kochi?
At Tourfly, we specialize in customized family packages from Kerala.
✈️ Fixed Group Departures: Travel with other Malayali families.
🗣️ Language Support: Malayalam-speaking tour managers available on request.
🍛 Food Sorted: We ensure Indian meals are part of the plan.
Need a price quote? Click below to WhatsApp our team in Kochi for the latest Thailand & Vietnam offers for next month!