India's Medical Tourism Market To Reach USD 13 Billion In 2026, 7 Top Cities Leading The Boom

Medical tourism means travelling to another country for medical treatment - often because it is more affordable, faster to access, or not available at home. India's medical travel sector has been growing rapidly, and Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat recently highlighted the country's rising achievements and ambitions in this fast-expanding space.

At the 6th edition of the FICCI Medical Value Travel Awards, held during the 8th edition of Advantage Healthcare India (AHCI) 2026, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat noted how India has been emerging as a preferred global destination for medical tourism, supported by internationally accredited institutions and globally respected medical professionals.

Pointing at India's medical value travel (MVT) market, the minister said, “The sector, valued at approximately USD 6 billion (Rs 49,800 crore) in 2022, is projected to surpass USD 13 billion (Rs 1.18 lakh crore) by 2026. This growth is the result of sustained efforts by healthcare providers, facilitators, policymakers, and industry bodies such as FICCI,” reported FortuneIndia. 

The minister further emphasised that initiatives in the healthcare ecosystem, such as the Heal in India campaign, which has taken major steps to streamline medical visa processes and develop integrated medical and wellness hubs, set new benchmarks in trust and transparency.

Why Is India Such A Popular Medical Tourism Destination?

The has positioned India as a centre of Ayurveda, Yoga, Sidha, Naturopathy, etc., alongside the spiritual philosophy which is integral to the Indian way of life. Common treatments include dental care, surgery, and fertility treatments at top-tier Indian healthcare organisations. 

India has emerged as one of the world's most sought-after medical travel hubs thanks to its blend of advanced healthcare and affordable pricing. Travellers can access specialised treatments at significantly lower costs than in many Western nations, without compromising on quality. Major Indian hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and a large number of doctors come with international training and global clinical experience.

Adding to this appeal are shorter waiting times, streamlined processes, and dedicated teams that assist foreign patients with everything from appointments to stay arrangements - making medical travel to India convenient and reassuring.

Union Budget 2026-27 To Boost India's Medical Tourism

In the Union Budget 2026-27, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed a new scheme to support states in developing five regional medical hubs in collaboration with the private sector. Each hub will include AYUSH centres, medical value-travel facilitation services, and dedicated infrastructure for diagnostics, post-treatment care, and rehabilitation. 

Additionally, the Finance Minister also announced the establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda to strengthen research and academic capacity in the field. "Ancient Indian yoga, already respected around the world, achieved widespread global recognition when the Prime Minister presented it at the United Nations," she . 

7 Best Medical Tourism Spots In India 

Here are 7 of the best medical tourism spots in India, according to a report by Skyscanner:

1. Chennai 

Considered the “health capital of India,” Chennai is extremely popular for cardiac surgery, organ transplants, orthopaedics, oncology and advanced eye care. The city also stands out for its smooth medical visa help and recovery services. 

2. Mumbai 

Mumbai is another major centre for medical tourism in India, known for transplant surgery, cancer care, cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, orthopaedics and bariatric surgery. Many hospitals here also offer full support packages, from airport pickups to post-operative care coordination.  

3. New Delhi 

Many hospitals in the nation's capital offer a wide range of specialities, including cardiology, neurology, organ transplants, orthopaedics and complex general surgery. The healthcare centres are also well-versed in handling overseas cases and often have dedicated international patient departments.  

4. Ahmedabad 

Ahmedabad is emerging as one of the affordable medical tourism destinations in India, due to its speciality in cardiac care, kidney treatment, orthopaedics, eye procedures and dental work. The city's hospitals offer peaceful environments for those seeking low-cost surgery. 

5. Goa 

Recognised for wellness-focused medical tourism in India, Goa doesn't provide procedure-heavy surgeries like larger cities. Instead, it is popular for rehabilitation, dental care, minor treatments, and holistic therapies such as Ayurveda and naturopathy.

6. Bengaluru

Bengaluru has become one of India's most trusted cities for specialised medical care, especially for brain, spine, orthopaedic and fertility treatments. Hospitals here are known for their high-tech facilities and smooth, digitally supported patient systems that simplify everything from consultations to follow-ups. The city's mild weather and abundance of green pockets also make recovery more pleasant.

7. Kochi (Kerala)

Kochi offers a rare mix of modern medical expertise and Kerala's age-old wellness traditions. The city is noted for its strengths in cardiac care, orthopaedics and fertility treatment, while also being a gateway to authentic Ayurvedic therapies designed to support healing and rehabilitation. With tranquil backwaters and lush natural surroundings, Kochi provides a restful atmosphere that appeals to travellers seeking both effective treatment and a calming recovery environment.