Popularly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam is the largest city and the financial and cultural capital of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is a fast-paced city deeply rooted in its cultural roots whilst quickly having adapted to the demands of urbanisation. Here you will find ornate temples and olden shrines of various faiths standing side by side alongside towering skyscrapers and shopping malls. Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which is the busiest airport in the country services Ho Chi Minh City.
Tan Son Nhat Airport serves as an international as well as domestic airport for Ho Chi Minh City. One can reach the city from India through various flight companies including Malindo Airways, Thai Airways, Air India, Malaysia Airlines, Thai AirAsia and many more from various India cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata etc.
The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is during the months of December to March. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 32°C. This period marks the dry period in Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding regions when temperatures are relatively cool during the day and chilly at night.
Overcoming a turbulent period in its past with its peak at the Vietnam war, Ho Chi Minh City has since grown leaps and bounds to become arguably the most iconic tourist destination in the country. There are several historical attractions such as the Cu Chi and Ben Dinh Tunnels which are remnants of its war-torn past. Other places of interest include the Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House and Central Post Office which were built during the rule of the French and brilliantly showcase classical French architecture. These prominent tourist spots are located in District 1 of the city, all close to each other.
Local markets such as Ben Thanh and Binh Tay offer visitors a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, electronics and bric-a-brac souvenirs. Catering to more modern and lavish tastes, Ho Chi Minh City is home to many eccentric shopping malls, fine dining restaurants and glitzy nightclubs as well.