The Full Guide to Medical Tourism in India

Updated on Dec 21, 2023 | Indian e-Visa

Medical tourism in India refers to people travelling to India worldwide to receive medical treatment. The main reasons behind the popularity of medical tourism in India are its high-quality healthcare services, affordable costs, and the availability of world-class facilities.

Medical tourism in India refers to people travelling to India from all over the world to receive medical treatment. The main reasons behind the popularity of medical tourism in India are its high-quality healthcare services, affordable costs, and the availability of world-class facilities. Additionally, the country has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional healing practices like Ayurveda, yoga, and other alternative therapies. These practices, combined with modern medical technologies, make India an attractive destination for people seeking medical treatment.

Government of India allows visit to India by applying for Indian Visa online on this website for several purposes. For example if your intention for travelling to India relates to a commercial or business purpose, then you are eligible to apply for Indian Business Visa Online (Indian Visa Online or eVisa India for Business). If you are planning to go to India as a medical visitor for medical reason, consulting doctor or for surgery or for your health, Government of India has made Indian Medical Visa Online available for your needs (Indian Visa Online or eVisa India for Medical purposes). Indian Tourist Visa Online (Indian Visa Online or eVisa India for Tourist) can be utilised for meeting friends, meeting relatives in India, attending courses like Yoga, or for sight-seeing and tourism.

Medical Tourism in India: Why Is It So Popular?

As per recent trends, approximately 2 million patients visit India annually from 78 countries for medical, wellness and IVF treatments, generating $6 billion for the industry, which is expected to reach $13 billion by 2026, backed by the government's Heal in India initiative.

The healthcare industry in India has grown rapidly in recent years, with an increasing number of hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes offering a range of medical services. India has some of the best hospitals in the world, with cutting-edge medical technologies and highly skilled healthcare professionals. These hospitals offer various treatments, from primary health check-ups to complex surgeries and treatments for chronic diseases.

One of the main advantages of medical tourism in India is its affordability.

The cost of medical treatment in India is significantly lower than many other countries, making it an attractive destination for people seeking medical treatment. This is especially true for people from developed countries, where the cost of medical treatment can be prohibitively high. For example, a heart bypass surgery in India can cost as little as one-tenth of what it would cost in a developed country.

Ayurveda

In addition to its affordability, India has a rich tradition of traditional healing practices, such as Ayurveda and yoga. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that has been practised for thousands of years. It involves using natural remedies and treatments and focuses on the balance of mind, body, and spirit to achieve good health. The popularity of Ayurveda has been growing in recent years, with people from all over the world travelling to India to receive treatment.

Yoga

Another traditional healing practice that is popular in India is yoga. Yoga is an ancient Indian discipline that involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. It is believed to have many health benefits, including reducing stress, improving flexibility, and promoting mental and physical well-being. The popularity of yoga has grown significantly in recent years, with people from all over the world travelling to India to learn the practice and to receive yoga therapy.

The popularity of medical tourism in India has grown rapidly in recent years, with an increasing number of people travelling to the country to receive medical treatment. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly decreased the number of people travelling to India for medical treatment. However, despite the pandemic, the medical tourism industry in India is expected to grow in the coming years, as more people become aware of its many benefits.

Thus, medical tourism in India is a growing industry that offers high-quality healthcare services at affordable prices. The country has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional healing practices like Ayurveda and yoga and has some of the best hospitals in the world. The popularity of medical tourism in India is expected to grow in the coming years, as more people become aware of its many benefits. Whether you are seeking medical treatment or just looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, India has something to offer to everyone.

The History of Medicine in India

The history of medicine in India dates back to ancient times when traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga were first developed. These practices have been passed down from generation to generation and are still widely used today.

The earliest written records of traditional Indian medicine can be found in the Atharva Veda, a Hindu text that dates back to around 1000 BC. This text contains information on the use of herbal medicines and the importance of maintaining good health through proper diet, exercise, and sleep.

Ayurveda, which means "the science of life," was formalised as a system of medicine in the 5th century BC. It is based on the belief that good health is achieved by maintaining a balance between the body, mind, and spirit. Ayurveda uses a variety of treatments, including herbal medicines, massage, and yoga, to restore this balance and prevent illness.

During the medieval period, Indian medicine continued to develop and evolve, with the introduction of new treatments and the development of new medical texts. The Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita are two of the most important medical texts from this period, and they continue to be widely used today.

In the 19th century, Western medicine was introduced to India, and Indian doctors began to study and adopt Western medical practices. This led to the development of modern medical facilities and the introduction of new technologies, such as x-rays and microscopes.

Today, India is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with world-class hospitals and highly skilled healthcare professionals. The country continues to be a leader in the field of traditional medicine, and traditional practices such as Ayurveda and yoga remain an important part of the healthcare system.

Thus, the history of medicine in India is rich and diverse, with a tradition that spans thousands of years and encompasses both traditional and modern medical practices. Whether using traditional remedies or modern technologies, India remains at the forefront of medical innovation and the pursuit of good health.

Yoga and Ayurveda in India

India is known for its long history of traditional medicine practices, including yoga and Ayurveda. These practices are an integral part of Indian culture and are becoming increasingly popular among Western tourists seeking alternative forms of medical treatment.

Yoga originated in ancient India as a physical, mental, and spiritual practice. It is designed to improve overall health and well-being, and it is based on the belief that the body and mind are interconnected. Yoga involves a series of physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques, and it is widely recognized as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. It is based on the belief that health and well-being depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of natural treatments, including herbal remedies, massage, and diet, to promote overall health and wellness.

In India, yoga and Ayurveda are often practised together, as they are seen as complementary forms of medicine. Many medical tourists visit India to experience these traditional practices, and they often combine their medical treatment with yoga and Ayurveda for a more holistic approach to healthcare.

Whether for the physical and mental benefits or for their cultural significance, yoga and Ayurveda are essential parts of the medical tourism experience in India. These practices offer a unique and holistic approach to healthcare, and they are increasingly popular among Western tourists seeking alternative medical treatment.

Advantages of Medical Tourism in India

Affordability: One of the main advantages of medical tourism in India is its affordability. The cost of medical treatment in India is significantly lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive destination for people seeking medical treatment. This is especially true for people from developed countries, where the cost of medical treatment can be prohibitively high.
High-Quality Healthcare Services: India has some of the best hospitals in the world, with cutting-edge medical technologies and highly skilled healthcare professionals. These hospitals offer various treatments, from essential health check-ups to complex surgeries and treatments for chronic diseases. The quality of healthcare services in India is comparable to that of developed countries, making it an attractive destination for people seeking medical treatment.
Availability of Traditional Healing Practices: India has a rich tradition of traditional healing practices, such as Ayurveda and yoga. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that has been practised for thousands of years. Yoga is an ancient Indian discipline that involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. The popularity of these practices has been growing in recent years, with people from all over the world travelling to India to receive treatment.
World-Class Facilities: The healthcare industry in India has grown rapidly in recent years, with an increasing number of hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes offering a range of medical services. These facilities offer world-class services, modern medical technologies and highly skilled healthcare professionals. The world-class facilities in India make it an attractive destination for people seeking medical treatment.
Cultural Experience: India is a culturally rich country with a long history and diverse traditions. The country is famous for its food, music, art, and architecture. Medical tourists in India can enjoy a cultural experience while receiving medical treatment, making their visit more enjoyable and memorable.

The Rising Popularity of Western Tourists Seeking Healthcare Services in India:

India has become a popular destination for Western tourists seeking affordable, high-quality healthcare services. With the cost of medical treatment rising rapidly in many developed countries, more and more people are looking to India for affordable medical treatment.

One of the main reasons for the popularity of medical tourism in India among Western tourists is the affordability of medical treatment. In India, medical procedures that can cost tens of thousands of dollars in Western countries can be performed for a fraction of the cost. This makes India an attractive option for people seeking medical treatment but who cannot afford it in their home countries.
Another reason for the popularity of medical tourism in India is the high quality of healthcare services available in the country. India is home to some of the world's best hospitals and medical professionals, and medical tourists can receive treatment from highly skilled doctors and medical staff. In addition, many of the hospitals in India offer modern facilities and state-of-the-art medical technologies, making them comparable to the best hospitals in the world.
The popularity of traditional medicine practices, such as Ayurveda and yoga, is also a factor driving the growth of medical tourism in India among Western tourists. These practices are seen as a more holistic and natural approach to healthcare. They are becoming increasingly popular among Western tourists looking for alternative forms of medical treatment.

Thus, the popularity of medical tourism in India among Western tourists is driven by several factors, including the affordability of medical treatment, the high quality of healthcare services available, and the popularity of traditional medicine practices. Whether for routine medical procedures or more complex treatments, India is an increasingly popular destination for Western tourists seeking healthcare services.

The Most Common Places that Tourists Visit for Medical Tourism in India

Delhi: Delhi is a popular destination for medical tourists, with many world-class hospitals and medical facilities. The city offers various medical treatments, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, orthopaedics, and cardiology.
Mumbai: Mumbai is another popular destination for medical tourists, with many high-quality hospitals and medical facilities. The city is known for its expertise in plastic surgery, orthopaedics, and cardiology, and it attracts medical tourists worldwide.
Bangalore: Bangalore is one of India's leading destinations for medical tourism, known for its high-quality healthcare services and affordable medical treatments. The city is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country, and it offers a wide range of medical treatments, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, orthopaedics, and cardiology.
Hyderabad: Hyderabad is a rapidly growing destination for medical tourism, with many high-quality hospitals and medical facilities. The city is known for its expertise in orthopaedics, cardiology, and oncology, and it attracts medical tourists worldwide.
Chennai: Chennai is another popular destination for medical tourism, with many world-class hospitals and medical facilities. The city is known for its expertise in orthopaedics, cardiology, and oncology, and it attracts medical tourists worldwide.

These are some of the most common places tourists visit for medical tourism in India. Each of these cities offers a wide range of medical treatments, home to many high-quality hospitals and medical facilities. Whether for routine medical procedures or more complex treatments, these cities are popular destinations for medical tourists worldwide.

The India Medical eVisa

The India Medical eVisa is an electronic visa that allows foreign nationals to enter India for medical treatment. The visa is designed for medical tourists and is available for stays of up to 60 days. The India Medical eVisa is a fast, convenient, and secure way for foreign nationals to obtain a visa for medical treatment in India.

To obtain an India Medical eVisa, applicants must submit an online application and provide the following information:

Personal details: This includes the applicant's full name, date of birth, and passport information.
Travel information: This includes the travel dates, the trip's purpose, and the name of the hospital or medical facility where the treatment will be received.
Health information: This includes details of the medical condition and the treatment required.

The India Medical eVisa is processed quickly, and applicants typically receive their visa within 3 - 5 business days. Once approved, the visa is electronically linked to the applicant's passport and is valid for a single entry into India.

The India Medical eVisa is a convenient and cost-effective way for foreign nationals to obtain a visa for medical treatment in India. It provides a fast, secure, and easy way for medical tourists to enter India. It is an integral part of the country's efforts to promote medical tourism and attract foreign visitors.

Read More:

India eVisa Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for Medical Tourists in India:

Choose the right hospital or medical facility: India has many high-quality hospitals and medical facilities, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Research the hospital or medical facility and its reputation, as well as the qualifications and experience of the doctors and medical staff.

Plan ahead: Medical treatment can be a time-consuming and complex process, so it is important to plan ahead. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and medical records and arrange for any necessary medical tests or procedures before you arrive in India.
Get travel insurance: Medical treatment can be expensive, and it is important to have travel insurance to protect yourself against any unexpected costs. Make sure your insurance covers medical treatment in India and familiarise yourself with the policy and any exclusions or restrictions.
Communicate with your doctor: Communication is key when it comes to medical treatment. Make sure you understand the medical procedures and treatments you will be receiving and discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your doctor.
Familiarize yourself with Indian culture: India has a rich and diverse culture, and it is important to familiarize yourself with the customs and traditions of the country. Be respectful of the local culture and traditions and be open-minded to new experiences.
Take care of your health: Medical treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding, so it is important to take care of your health. Make sure you get enough rest and nutrition and stay hydrated.
Enjoy your trip: Medical treatment can be stressful, but it is also an opportunity to experience a new culture and see a new part of the world. Make sure you take some time to explore and enjoy your trip, and make the most of your time in India.

These are some of the tips for medical tourists in India. Whether you are seeking medical treatment or simply exploring the country, it is important to be well-prepared and take care of your health and well-being. By following these tips, you can make the most of your medical trip to India and have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience.

In conclusion, India is one of the world's leading destinations for medical tourism, offering affordable and high-quality healthcare services, as well as a rich history of traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga. From advanced medical facilities to ancient healing practices, India has something to offer everyone looking for medical treatment.

With the convenience of the India Medical eVisa and the popularity of western tourists seeking medical treatment, the country is well-equipped to accommodate the needs of medical tourists. Whether you are looking for medical treatment or simply exploring the country, India is a safe, welcoming, and culturally rich destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are a medical tourist or simply interested in experiencing India's rich cultural heritage, this beautiful country is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Tourism in India:
What is medical tourism in India?

Medical tourism in India refers to the practice of travelling to India for medical treatment. India is one of the world's leading destinations for medical tourism, offering affordable and high-quality healthcare services, as well as a rich history of traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga.

What kind of medical treatments are available in India?

India offers various medical treatments, including orthopaedic surgery, heart surgery, cancer treatment, cosmetic surgery, dental treatment, and fertility treatments. India is also known for its traditional healing practices, such as Ayurveda and yoga.

Why is India a popular destination for medical tourism?

India is a popular destination for medical tourism for several reasons, including its affordable and high-quality healthcare services, the availability of English-speaking medical staff, and the popularity of traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga. The country also offers a welcoming and culturally rich environment, making it an attractive destination for medical tourists.

How can I get a visa for medical treatment in India?

Foreign nationals can obtain a visa for medical treatment in India by applying for the India Medical eVisa. The eVisa is an electronic visa that allows foreign nationals to enter India for medical treatment for stays of up to 60 days. The visa is processed quickly and applicants typically receive their visa within 3-5 business days.

What are the benefits of medical tourism in India?

Medical tourism in India offers several benefits, including affordable and high-quality healthcare services, the availability of English-speaking medical staff, and the popularity of traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga. The country also offers a welcoming and culturally rich environment, making it an attractive destination for medical tourists. Additionally, medical tourists can often save money on medical treatment in India compared to their home country, and can also take advantage of the opportunity to explore the country and immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage.

Is it safe to receive medical treatment in India?

India is generally considered safe for medical tourists and has advanced medical facilities and highly trained medical staff. However, as with any medical treatment, there are risks involved, so it is important to thoroughly research the medical facilities and treatment options before making a decision. It is also important to be prepared for any possible complications, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of access to familiar medical facilities and resources.

What should I consider when choosing a medical facility in India?

When choosing a medical facility in India, it is important to consider the following factors: the reputation and expertise of the medical staff, the quality of the facilities and equipment, the availability of English-speaking staff, the location of the facility, and the cost of treatment. It is also important to research the facility's accreditation and certification, as well as the availability of aftercare and support services.

How can I find a reputable medical facility in India?

To find a reputable medical facility in India, it is important to research the facilities and treatment options available, and to seek recommendations from friends, family, or medical professionals. It is also important to consult with medical tourism organisations or travel agencies, who can provide guidance and support in finding the right medical facility and treatment plan.

In conclusion, medical tourism in India offers a unique combination of affordable and high-quality healthcare services, as well as a rich history of traditional healing practices such as Ayurveda and yoga. Whether you are seeking medical treatment or simply exploring the country, India is a safe, welcoming, and culturally rich destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Citizens of many countries including United States, Canada, France, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Italy, Singapore, United Kingdom, are eligible for Indian Visa Online (eVisa India) including visiting beaches of India on tourist visa. Resident of over 180 countries quality for Indian Visa Online (eVisa India) as per Indian Visa Eligibility and apply the Indian Visa Online offered by the Government of India.

Should you have any doubts or require assistance for your trip to India or Visa for India (eVisa India), you can apply for the Indian Visa Online right here and if you need any need any help or require any clarifications you should contact Indian Visa Help Desk for support and guidance.