4,500 tourists from Indian billionaire's company start Vietnam trip

The tourists from Sun Pharmaceuticals arrived in Vietnam in small groups early on Tuesday. After lunch, they started their tour of Hanoi, with their first stop at Hoa Lo Prison. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries is owned by Dilip Shanghvi, India's fifth richest individual. Forbes estimated the tycoon's net worth at $29.3 billion as of Aug. 26.

The group primarily toured the exhibits at the Hoa Lo Prison relic, including the prison cells, the male and female detention camps, and the dungeon. Additionally, their tour guide provided insights into the lives of political prisoners held at Hoa Lo, as well as the experiences of American pilots detained there between 1964 and 1973. In the picture, the group visit a detention camp where male political prisoners were held.

They examine a model of miniature Hoa Lo Prison.

Arjit Sahai from New Delhi, 27, stands in front of a souvenir shop inside Hoa Lo Prison. He said he loves Hanoi, appreciating the politeness and friendliness of its people.

Roshni, a 27-year-old resident of New Delhi, is excited to explore Vietnam in the coming days. She said that despite finding Hanoi quite hot, her experience so far has been good.

The group visit the outdoor exhibition area featuring artifacts from the underground sewers, which were used by political prisoners to escape in 1945 and 1951.

After leaving the prison relic, the group continue their visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. The temple was built in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong in honor of Confucius and other scholars. In 1484 King Le Thanh Tong ordered the installation of steles to honor people who pass top exams in the country.

Sourav Paul, one of the tourists in the group, said most of them are visiting Vietnam for the first time and impressed by the country's landscapes. He said the hospitality of the people has made their visit even more enjoyable. "In the future, I will be sure to recommend Hanoi to everyone," Paul said.

The temple provides a separate entrance and makes special arrangements to ensure the delegation had the best experience in Vietnam.

A tourist clasps hands and prays inside the temple.

The tourists pose for photos inside the temple.

The group of Indian tourists is scheduled to stay overnight in Hanoi for the duration of their trip to Vietnam. While in Hanoi, they will also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake. Starting from Aug. 29, the groups will move to Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay, both around two hours from Hanoi.