India Health Tourism

India’s health tourism epicenter is situated in its healthiest state, Kerala. The life expectancy of locals here is higher than in other parts of India (approaching that of many Western nations), and the health-care system receives regular international praise.

Surprisingly, traditional medicine―namely aruvedic therapy―is still widely practiced here, presenting visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the revitalizing power of this ancient medicine. A number of upmarket aruvedic resorts cater to tourists with in-depth treatment plans drawn from ancient Kerala traditions.

Aruvedic therapy blends artful massage and herbal remedies to treat a range of medical conditions including diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, ulcers, psoriasis, asthma, anxiety and simple back pain. Beyond its physical benefits, aruvedic treatment is also touted as a means of rejuvenating the mind and the senses.

A unique branch of aruvedic therapy is known as sirodhara, in which a stream of oil or medicated milk is gently poured over the patient’s forehead. The act helps to center the patient, providing relief from stress-related ailments and disorders of the nervous system.

Western-style health spas are also widespread in India, though they emerged on the scene much more recently. Many upscale hotels operate their own spa facilities in large cities like New Delhi, while all-inclusive health spa resorts dot the Indian countryside.

Steam treatments, massage and aromatherapy are commonplace in these facilities. Many visitors (both medical and mainstream tourists) pause for an opportunity to pamper themselves while visiting India. Anything from a 30-minute facial to a weekend spa retreat is easily arranged.

Yoga’s roots are planted firmly in Indian culture and there are countless institutes that offer courses for tourists. Monastic retreats in rural India focus on honing body, mind and spirit through complex yogic instruction and meditation.

The finest wellness resorts in India blend all of these treatments and traditions into a single experience. Health retreat packages often include consultations with aruvedic doctors, intermittent massage therapy, thoughtfully-arranged menus and in-depth yoga instruction.

These all-inclusive health tourism packages involve some of the finest holistic treatment in the world, though they are made available at a fraction of what they would cost in Western nations. They offer benefits to patients in recovery, to those whom mainstream medicine has failed, or to holiday makers simply looking for an opportunity to indulge.