How India Can Leverage Local Traditions to Boost Wellness Travel

Skift Research’s recent report on India inbound travel opportunities revealed strong traveler interest in wellness and holistic tourism (including yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and spa retreats), with 25% of travelers choosing India over other Asian countries.

The Skift India Travel Perception Index measures how travelers perceive India compared to other Asian destinations. Ratings range from 1 (much worse) to 5 (much better) across various travel-related categories.

According to the index, India has a 3.0 rating for hospitality and wellness tourism. That reflects a neutral perception, indicating that India is seen as comparable to its regional peers.

Leveraging its heritage in Ayurveda, yoga, and wellness retreats, increased investment in these areas could solidify India’s standing as a leading destination for both holistic and luxury travel experiences.

A report published by Hotelivate, a hospitality consulting firm, states that in 2023 and 2024, leisure hubs such as Rishikesh and Srinagar recorded the highest revenue per available room (RevPAR), at ₹9,786 ($115) and ₹8,940 ($106), respectively.

These figures highlight a growing traveler preference for premium stays in destinations known for wellness, adventure, and serene experiences — underscoring a broader shift toward niche, experience-driven tourism.

Our India inbound travel report, based on a survey, revealed the top experiences motivating respondents’ trips. While interest levels varied across categories, we also analyzed the economic impact of each segment by calculating the average spend per traveler based on their primary motivation.

Wellness tourism emerged as a high-value niche, with travelers in this segment spending an average of $3,822 per person — a figure likely influenced by demand for premium retreats, Ayurvedic treatments, and holistic wellness offerings. Despite its specialized nature, this segment presents strong potential for revenue growth.

Top Wellness Tourism Hubs in India

India presents a diverse landscape for wellness tourism. Each state boasts its own medicinal practices and healing methods, each unique in its own way.

Kerala is recognized as the cradle of Ayurveda, offering authentic treatments and retreats in its serene backwaters and beaches — Ayurveda involves a slow and mindful healing process that calms the nervous system and builds immunity.

Rishikesh stands as the yoga capital of the world, providing spiritual wellness experiences along the Ganges.

And while Uttarakhand offers peaceful mountain escapes for holistic detox and spiritual journeys in the Himalayas, Goa combines beach relaxation with Ayurveda and yoga. In Goa alone, there are around 120 hotels offering wellness retreats.

The state of Maharashtra features upscale wellness resorts near Mumbai and Pune, blending Ayurveda, yoga, and modern wellness techniques; Dharana is another example within the state offering luxury and wellness, and marketed as a place where time slows down and nature’s beauty takes center stage.