An Extensive Guide to Medical Tourism in India

Updated on Jun 24, 2024 | Indian e-Visa

India has a long history and legacy in medicine. It began centuries ago. Even now, India provides world-class medical care to everyone. This encouraged international visitors to come to India for medical treatment. When the flow increased, the government of India launched an Indian e-Visa type called Medical e-Visa, which is for individuals traveling to India for medical purposes.

We are going to discuss the medical tourism in India. We hope you will get an extensive idea about India’s legacy in medicine.

A Brief History of Medicine in India

Ancient Roots

The history of medicine starts from the Vedic period. During this period traditional medical practices like Ayurveda flourished. The Vedic texts and Samhitas explain so many medical practices. Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, and Ashtangahrudhaya are the 3 major texts in Ayurveda. Sushruta, The great physician of 800 BC is known as the ‘Father of Surgery’. He explained many surgical tools, recovery methods, medicines, etc. in the ‘Sushruta Samhita’. Furthermore, he detailed 'nose job' cosmetic surgery at that age. The list continues. All of the Ayurvedic treatises of that era are incredible.

Medieval Period

The invasion of the Mughals introduced India to a new branch of medicine. The Arab and Persian scholars introduced Unani to India. In this era, people hospitals, and medical schools started to flourish. The introduction of Unani and the improvement of the medical field enriched the Indian heritage.

Colonial Era

The introduction of Allopathy has happened in this era. This era introduced modern medical infrastructure for hospitals, medical institutions, etc. Also, it led to the blend of both traditional and modern medicine. This helped the groundwork of the current medical system in India.

Post Independence

Economic liberalization, Globalization, Global success stories, Government initiatives, etc. boosted the medical system post-independence. The government launched many initiatives to boost medical tourism in India. Due to globalization travel, information, knowledge, and the flow of international patients to seek world-class medical treatments increased.

Why Choose India for Medical Tourism?

There are more reasons why people choose India for medical treatments. Here is a small list of them-

Popular Treatments

Cardiac surgery, Orthopedic surgery, Oncology, Cosmetic surgery, Fertility treatments, etc. are the major popular treatments in India. People choose India for these treatments and surgeries because of the world-class treatment and success stories.

High-Quality Health Care

Indian hospitals are equipped with high-quality technologies and highly talented medical staff. Whatever the treatment is you will get high-quality health care for sure.

Cost-Effective

All treatments in India, from therapy to surgery, are less expensive and of higher quality. If you are taking treatments in India you will never have to worry about the cost as well as the quality.

Wide Range of Services

You can get a variety of medical services in India. The list is endless and includes Ayurveda, Allopathy, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Unani, etc. Furthermore, top-notch surgeons do all kinds of surgeries here, from minor to major.

Ayurveda & Yoga

Most Indian medical e-visa holders are visiting India to pursue Ayurvedic treatments and Yoga-based healing. There is no doubt about it. If you wonder why, please continue reading and we will explain why.

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old natural medicine system. Even though it is dated 5000 years ago, research is going on to determine the actual age. Ayurveda naturally heals our body, and mind with its holistic medicinal practices. Let’s see some aspects of Ayurveda -

Panchakarma

This detoxification process has 5 parts/practices Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana.

Herbal Medicine

Since Ayurveda is all about natural healing all the medications are herbal. They collect herbs and naturally make medicines out of them.

Diet & Lifestyle

One of the most important parts is diet & lifestyle. You need to follow a good diet and lifestyle during the treatment. It will automatically boost your immunity and spirit within a few days.

There are more things to add to this list. However, you can find many Ayurvedic resorts in India where you can enjoy your treatments as well as the ambiance.

Yoga

Yoga is another ancient healing practice in India. Yoga enhances the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of people. Practicing Yoga helps people to have a flexible mind and body. Let’s see some benefits of Yoga-

Stress Reduction

Yoga helps in stress reduction. Breathing exercises like Pranayama and meditation boost mental health and peace.

Flexibility

Those who practice Yoga can remain flexible mentally and physically. In yoga, there are numerous asanas (postures) that support one's flexibility, health, and happiness.

Holistic Healing

Yoga enables holistic healing in people. There are medical aids to practice along with asanas and meditation. Yoga has the power to change a person in a good way.

Yoga and Ayurveda are India's pride. It has a unique ability to heal and transform individuals. Yoga and Ayurveda practitioners are among the happiest people we know. It is difficult to explain these two in one article. Travel to India to discover true healing through Ayurveda and Yoga.

Plan Your Medical Trip to India

Obtain Indian Medical e-Visa

The most important part is to obtain an Indian Medical e-Visa. The procedure is so simple just visit the Indian e-Visa website. Check for your eligibility, find the application form, and apply for your Indian Medical e-Visa. If someone from your close family or friends circle or a nurse accompanies you, they need an Indian Medical Attendant e-Visa to enter India. Understand more about them and proceed with the application process.

Research & Choose the Right Hospital

It is very crucial to choose the right hospital. Conduct research and choose the right hospital with international accreditation.

Consult With Your Resident Doctor

Please consult a doctor at your place and ensure you can travel this far. Not only that discuss the whole plan and ensure you are medically fit for it and understand the procedures.

Accommodation and Transportation

Many hospitals offer accommodation and transportation facilities. If not, choose a nearby stay for your convenience. Do a small research and plan accordingly.

Medical tourism in India provides world-class treatments, cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure, and a positive medical experience. As previously mentioned in this article, India is a hub for all types of medicinal practices. Apply for an Indian Medical e-Visa today to experience them directly.


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.