Medical Tourism in India: 2026

Overview of Medical Tourism in India

Medical tourism in India has evolved into a significant economic driver, blending high-quality healthcare with affordability, advanced technology, and cultural wellness options like Ayurveda. As of 2026, India attracts millions of international patients annually from regions including South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and even developed countries in Europe and North America. The sector benefits from government initiatives like “Heal in India,” which promotes streamlined visas (including the Ayush Visa for traditional therapies) and partnerships with accredited hospitals. This has positioned India as a top global destination, competing with Thailand, Turkey, and Mexico.

Detailed Scenario of the Indian Medical Tourism Market

The Indian medical tourism market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by cost savings (treatments often cost 60-80% less than in the US or UK), skilled English-speaking professionals, and internationally accredited facilities. Key market insights include:

• Market Size and Growth Projections: In 2026, the market is valued between USD 12.32 billion and USD 20.4 billion, with projections reaching USD 22.11 billion by 2031 (CAGR of 12.42%) or up to USD 65.1 billion by 2036 (CAGR of 12.3%). Earlier estimates from 2022 pegged it at USD 9 billion, expected to hit USD 13 billion by 2026. Globally, India’s share contributes to the broader medical tourism industry, valued at USD 84.5 billion in 2026 and projected to USD 174.1 billion by 2035 (CAGR 8.4%).
• Key Drivers:
  • Affordable, high-quality care with minimal wait times.
  • Expansion into tier-2 cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, and Chandigarh, reducing pressure on metros and offering cost-effective options.
  • Rising inbound tourists: In early 2025, over 131,856 foreign arrivals were for medical purposes, accounting for 4.1% of total FTAs.
  • Source Markets: Bangladesh leads (54% of medical tourists), followed by West Asia (22.7%), Eastern Europe (21.2%), and South Asia (19.8%).
  • Trends: Integration of digital health, AI-driven diagnostics, wellness tourism (e.g., spas and preventive care), and post-COVID focus on structured care journeys. The sector also faces challenges like varying treatment costs and the need for regional outreach.

• Regional Breakdown:

The market is segmented by treatment type (e.g., cardiovascular at 22.46% share in 2025), service providers (private hospitals dominate), and patient demographics. Outbound medical tourism is the fastest-growing segment.

Popular Treatments in Indian Medical Tourism

India offers a wide range of treatments, often combining modern medicine with traditional therapies. Popular ones for medical tourists include those where cost savings and expertise are significant. Based on demand, here are key recommendations:

• Cardiac/Heart Surgery: Bypass, angioplasty, valve replacements, and transplants. India performs high volumes with success rates comparable to global standards.
• Orthopedics and Spine: Knee/hip replacements, joint surgeries, and minimally invasive procedures. Ideal for patients seeking quick recovery.
• Oncology/Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgical oncology, and proton therapy. Growing at 16.73% CAGR.
• Cosmetic and Aesthetic Surgery: Plastic surgery, breast enhancement, tummy tucks, and dental procedures. Fastest-growing segment in some reports.
• Fertility/IVF and Reproductive Health: Assisted technologies with high success rates.
• Neurology/Neurosurgery: Brain tumors, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, and spine surgeries.
• Transplants: Bone marrow, organ (e.g., liver, kidney), and stem cell therapy.
• Alternative/Wellness Therapies: Ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy for arthritis, stress relief, and holistic care.
• Other Specialties: Bariatric surgery, ophthalmology (e.g., LASIK, cataracts), and dental treatments.

These are recommended for their affordability (e.g., heart bypass in India costs ~USD 7,000 vs. USD 100,000+ in the US), advanced facilities, and minimal language barriers.

Top Hospitals for Medical Tourism in India

India boasts over 839 NABH-accredited and numerous JCI-accredited hospitals. Leading ones for international patients include multi-specialty chains with dedicated medical tourism desks, translators, and visa assistance. Here’s a selection: