As the world becomes increasingly health conscious amid mounting air pollution and congested urban hubs, India is noting an uptick in wellness tourists seeking to rebalance their body, soul and mind.
Baby Mathew, chairman and managing director of Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, noted an increase in interest from Asia, especially Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, and notably among the young.
“India is famous for Ayurveda, yoga and natural remedies, and we’re seeing more people looking for spirituality and healing, while wanting to escape the pollution and cities,” said Mathew.
Aman Amola, inbound manager at Explore Bharat, also noted an uptick in increasingly younger people investing in medical tourism.
“Young people are now seeking healthier lifestyles, they are health conscious, and this health trend is increasingly bringing them to India,” he told TTG Asia.
He said that in addition to wellness tourism, Delhi – India’s capital territory – is luring both domestic medical travellers as well as a rising number of young people from Bangladesh, Afghanistan and other countries in South Asia seeking fertility treatment.
“Delhi has some of the best hospitals in the region for this, and this is becoming a big sector,” Amola noted, adding that India’s affordable healthcare is also luring international visitors needing other forms of treatment.
In 2024, the nation’s medical tourism market was valued at US$7.69 billion, with an estimated 7.3 million foreigners visiting for treatment. This is expected to hit US$8.71 billion this year.
Mathew said the government’s announcement of visa relaxations will help drive business to India’s medical tourism industry, making it easier and cheaper for many nationals to enter the country.
