India Set to Lead Global Medical Tourism with £45.3 Billion Market by 2035
India is poised to become a global powerhouse in medical and wellness tourism, with a projected market value of £45.3 billion by 2035. That’s a massive jump from approximately £14.2 billion in 2025, driven by sweeping healthcare reforms, digital innovation, and targeted government initiatives to attract international patients.
According to a joint report by the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) and KPMG, India’s medical tourism sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% over the next decade. The report, titled “Heal in India: Catalysing Medical and Wellness Tourism for a Healthier Global Future”, outlines India’s transformation into a world-leading healthcare destination.
Source: Travel and Tour World
What’s driving India’s medical tourism boom?
The rise of India as a go-to destination for international medical travellers is being fuelled by:
- ✔️ Digital Health IDs: Streamlined patient records through India’s Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
- ✔️ AYUSH Visas: Special medical and wellness visas that fast-track international patient entry
- ✔️ World-class hospitals: JCI and NABH-accredited facilities offering complex procedures like organ transplants
- ✔️ Government investment: A second Greenshoots initiative and public–private collaborations in healthcare
Top destinations in India for medical and wellness care
Three states are emerging as the core of India’s wellness and medical infrastructure:
- Kerala: Globally recognised for Ayurvedic care, panchakarma therapy, and holistic wellness in a culturally rich setting
- Maharashtra: A robust network of private hospitals and integrated wellness resorts
- Delhi/NCR: A hub for complex procedures such as cardiac surgery, IVF, and transplants
What treatments are most in demand?
India attracts nearly two million medical tourists annually, primarily from the GCC nations, Africa, South-East Asia, and Bangladesh. High-demand treatments include:
- ✔️ Cardiac surgery
- ✔️ Cosmetic surgery
- ✔️ IVF and fertility treatment
- ✔️ Dental and ophthalmology
- ✔️ Oncology, orthopaedics, and minimally invasive procedures
Challenges and opportunities
While metro cities are thriving, smaller Tier-II and Tier-III cities still lack adequate infrastructure, medical staff, and transport connectivity. Despite this, the report estimates over £24.9 billion worth of untapped investment opportunities in healthcare infrastructure nationwide.
How First Health Check connects UK patients to India’s healthcare success
At First Health Check, we bring the benefits of India’s booming medical sector to UK patients through our luxury 3-day preventative assessment packages. With NHS waitlists growing and private UK care becoming unaffordable for many, our all-inclusive India-based solution offers:
- ✅ Comprehensive health assessments and diagnostic imaging
- ✅ Specialist screenings including women’s health, cardiac, and more
- ✅ 5-star accommodation and concierge service
- ✅ VIP hospital access with consultant-led care
All assessments are completed within 3 days – no GP referral needed. You’ll return home with a full medical report, peace of mind, and often a few days of wellness and sightseeing too.
Start your health journey now. Click below to explore our assessment packages:
Disclaimer: This article summarises a publicly published report for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical guidance.
