Get high-quality treatment at lower costs! Medical tourism in India offers expert care by trusted doctors.

Offering complex surgeries to advanced therapies at a fraction of global costs, India is a trusted destination for international patients.

The increased number of medical tourists from 183k in 2020 to a provisional 635k in 2023 testify to its trustworthiness.[1]

Beyond treatment, India offers a unique blend of cultural richness and serene landscapes. It creates an ideal environment for recovery and exploration.

Nationalities from where medical tourists come to India

  • USA
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • Africa
  • The UK
  • The Middle East

Popular Medical Treatments People Travel to India for

India as a medical tourism destination, provide a range of treatments, including:

  • Dental Procedure: Advanced CAD/CAM technology and CEREC machines ensure precision in dental care.
  • Orthopedic Procedure: Robotic systems like the da Vinci Surgical System enhance surgical accuracy and outcomes.
  • Spine Procedure: Minimally invasive spine surgery offers highly effective solutions for disc-related issues.
  • Organ Transplant Procedure: Robotic-assisted laparoscopy ensures precise transplant and faster recovery.
  • Cancer Procedure: Groundbreaking treatments like CART-T cell therapy provides cutting-edge treatment regulated by CDSCO standards (FDA equivalent).
  • Bariatric Procedure: Advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques make bariatric surgeries less invasive
  • Stem Cell Therapy: Specialized tools like a Pass Box vacuum chamber reduce infection risks in this complex process

Why Medical Treatments Are Beneficial in India?

India provides quality treatments at 30-80% lower costs than the USA and Canada.

  • As the world’s third-largest drug producer[2], India exports to over 200 countries, ensuring affordable medicines and care.
  • Lower wages for healthcare staff as compared to counterparts in developed nations.[3]
  • Cost of living in India is, on average, 69.8% lower than in the United States.[4]
  • Hospitals often lease land or equipment, minimizing infrastructure costs.
  • More support staff helps doctors focus on critical tasks, boosting their efficiency.

Receive Cost Savings with Quality Care in India for all the medical treatments

Cost savings with quality medical treatment

Certified by JCI, NABH, NABL, AAID, ISO, ICOI, and other top organizations, Indian hospitals maintain global-quality standards.

They cater to local and international patients, benefiting those from countries with limited medical expertise.

Indian Hospitals and Clinics Accreditations - JCI, NABH, NABL, ICOI, AAID, AAHRPP

Indian Hospitals and Clinics Accreditations

India provides cutting-edge treatments in its hospitals and clinics.

These include:

  • Proton therapy: Cancer radiation treatment to minimize damage to healthy tissues.
  • CAR T-cell Therapy:Reprogramming of immune cells to target and destroy cancer.
  • TomoTherapy technology: Precise imaging and radiation to treat tumors.
  • Versius Next Generation Robotic Surgery: System enabling minimally invasive surgeries with improved outcomes.

Radixact x9 TomoTherapy for treatment of cancer patients

Radixact x9 TomoTherapy for cancer treatment
  • AI/ ML technologies: Revolutionizing diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient monitoring for efficient care.

Global patients choose India for quicker appointments.

This helps them to avoid the 21–28-day wait in the US and 10–62 days in the UK.[5]

The higher no. of doctors and staff is a contributing factor here.

Waiting Line at Apollo Hospital

Waiting Line at Apollo Hospital

Many Indian healthcare professionals are fluent in English.

Hospitals also often provide translators and coordinators to ensure clear communication.

Dr. Anant Kumar communicating with International Patient for Kidney Transplant (2)

Dr. Anant communicating with International Patient

Whether Ian from the UK or Terra from the USA, India's highly skilled surgeons with 20+ years of expertise are redefining global healthcare.

Affordable, advanced, and life-changing, that's the promise of Indian medical tourism.

Watch on YouTube
Medical Tourism in India: Your 2 Min Guide to Affordable Medical & Dental Care!

Cost Comparison: Medical Treatments in India vs. Other Countries

Health care tourism in India offers the same procedures at 1/10th the cost of those in the U.S. or U.K.[6]

Here’s a list of affordable treatments without compromising care.

Cost of Dental Procedures in India vs USA(in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Full Mouth Restoration $2,050 $30,000 93%
All-on-4 Dental Implants $3,000 $24,000 87%
All-on-6 Dental Implants $4,200 $28,000 85%
All-on-8 Dental Implants $6,000 $35,000 82%
Complete Denture/Jaw $630 $2,000 68%
Root Canal Treatment $50 $1,500 96%
E-Max Crowns $518 $2,000 74%

Dental work in India combines affordability with advanced techniques, making it ideal for international patients.

Cost of Orthopedic Procedures in India vs USA(in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Total Knee Replacement $4,950 $20,000 75%
Total Hip Replacement $5,500 $39,000 85%
Shoulder and Rotator Cuff Surgery $7,200 $20,000 79%
ACL $3,000 $13,500 77%

Orthopedic Surgery in India comes with the benefit of being performed by 25+ years of experienced surgeons.

Cost of Organ Transplant Procedures in India vs USA (in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Kidney Transplant $14,000 $4,42,500 96%
Liver Transplant $34,000 $8,78,400 96%

Get a comprehensive approach to organ transplants in India, from donor matching to successful surgery completion.

Cost of Spine Procedures in India vs USA (in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Scoliosis Surgery $15,000 $76,170 80%
Lumbar spine Fusion/ Decompression $4,900 $34,500 85%
Laminectomy $4000 $12,600 68%

Highly skilled surgeons provide minimally invasive spine surgery in India, for better treatment and aftercare

Cost of Cancer Procedures in India vs USA (in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Cart-T Cell Therapy $50,000 $4,50,000 88%
Breast Cancer Surgery $6,000 $20,000 70%
Lung Cancer Surgery $10,000 $30,000 66%
Prostate Cancer Surgery $9,000 $29,000 68%
BMT for Lukemia $22,000 $1,40,000 84%

CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in India boasts an 80% success rate, offering advanced treatment at affordable costs.

Cost of Bariatric Procedures in India vs USA (in USD)
Procedures India  USA  Savings
Gastric Bypass $6,100 $18,000 66%
Gastric Sleeve $5,800 $16,500 65%

With US-trained surgeons, experienced in thousands of successful procedures, weight loss surgery in India is an excellent choice.

Disclaimer: Price may vary depending on the type of treatment and the selected hospital

Here's a snapshot comparing the costs of major medical treatments in India and the USA.

Snapshot of Cost Comparison of Different Procedures

Overall Cost Comparison of Medical Procedures India vs USA

Explore other quality treatment options in India!

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India Medical Tourism Packages

With more savings and less expenditure, our top clinics and hospitals provide all-inclusive medical tourism packages.

These include:

  • Doctor fees
  • Primary team consultations
  • Diagnostic tests and implant costs
  • Hospital stay with meals (for specified durations)
  • Medications (as per the treatment plan)
  • Language interpreter services
  • Personal coordinator or case manager
  • Airport and hotel transfers
  • Follow-up care via telemedicine (the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients using telecommunications technology)

Get an idea of different medical tourism packages below:

India Ranks 3rd in Asia for Medical Tourism

1

India Ranks 3rd in Asia for Medical Tourism

India is 3rd in Asia and 10th out of 46 destinations in the world in the Medical Tourism Index (MTI) for 2020-21 by the Medical Tourism Association.

Destinations in India for Medical Tourism

Medical tourism is thriving across India, with leading destinations including:

  • Chennai - India’s health capital, renowned for organ transplants, with attractions like Marina Beach and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
  • Mumbai - Vibrant city life meets coastal retreats. Visit the Gateway of India or relax at Juhu Beach.
  • New Delhi and NCR - A blend of healthcare and history. Explore the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, or visit the Taj Mahal nearby.
  • Bangalore - Global healthcare hub with top hospitals and peaceful recovery spots like Nandi Hills.
  • Hyderabad - Historic sites like Charminar and Golconda Fort. Patients and visitors can also explore local arts, flavors, and traditions.
  • Pune - Home to world-class hospitals, Pune also offers iconic sites like Shaniwar Wada and Aga Khan Palace.
  • Chandigarh - A well-planned city with top hospitals, scenic gardens, and nearby hill stations
  • Jaipur - With medical facilities, Jaipur’s highlights include the Amber Fort & Hawa Mahal for a royal cultural experience.
  • Ahmedabad - With a growing medical sector, it also offers a rich history at Sabarmati Ashram & Adalaj Stepwell.
  • Rajkot - With cultural landmarks like Kaba Gandhi No Delo, it pairs exceptional healthcare with a rich heritage.
  • Kochi - Blends exceptional healthcare with serene backwaters, Mattancherry Palace, and vibrant markets.

Key Differences Between City Tiers

Get a quick overview of where city tiers highlight varying strengths and opportunities.

Tier 1 VS Tier 2
Higher Cost Lower
Advanced Medical Expertise Basic
Easy Travel Accessibility Moderate
Shorter Waiting Line Longer
Seamless Multilingual Staff Limited

Top Medical Tourism Hospitals in India

While many hospitals meet international standards, general public infrastructure may vary. Opt for accredited facilities.

Schedule your visit at India's top hospitals!

Schedule free consult

Best Doctors in India: Transform Health with Experts

Our top doctors in India are trained at prestigious international institutions like Harvard and in countries like Germany and the UK.

Affiliated with top global organizations like AO Spine, ADA, ASH, ICOI, and more they specialize in advanced treatments.

Want to know more? Scroll down

Here are informative videos from our expert surgeons, each specializing in their respective fields.

Consult India’s leading medical specialists today!

Book appointment

Medical Tourism Testimonials in India

Don’t just take our word for it! Listen to what these international patients have to say about their experiences.

Let us help you, like we helped them!

Start planning now

Telemedicine and Medical Tourism

Introduced with formal guidelines by the Ministry of Health in March 2020, telemedicine enables remote diagnosis and care through

  • Audio
  • Video
  • Text (or chat)
  • Medical image sharing like X-rays and scans

India's digital revolution has led hospitals to adopt advanced technologies, primarily for local practitioners.

Patient-consulting-doctor-over-video-call

Patient consulting doctor via video call

Many Indian doctors and medical tourism companies now offer these services to international patients, with necessary approvals, enhancing accessibility and ensuring continuous care.

Source: MoHFW [7]

Travelling to India

India is easily accessible, drawing global patients for quality medical care. Its well-connected airports and streamlined visa processes make traveling hassle-free.

How to Reach the Best Healthcare Tourism Destinations in India?

Delhi Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports  Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 13 hrs 40 min Nonstop
Dallas (DFW) 18 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Houston (IAH) 19 hrs 10 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 13 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Vancouver (YVR) 14 hrs 40 min Nonstop
London (LHR) 8 hrs 10 min Nonstop
Manchester (MAN) 12 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 13 hrs Nonstop
Sharjah (SHJ) 3 hrs 10 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi (AUH) 3 hrs 25 min Nonstop
Dubai (DXB) 3 hrs 15 min Nonstop
Cape Town (CPT) 14 hrs 45 min 1 stop
Nairobi (NBO) 10 hrs 1 stop

Chennai Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Houston (IAH) 19 hrs 35 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 18 hrs 50 min 1 stop
London (LHR) 9 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Manchester (MAN) 11 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 14 hrs 10 min 1 stop
Sharjah (SHJ) 3 hrs 50 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi (AUH) 4 hrs Nonstop
Dubai (DXB) 3 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Cape Town (CPT) 15 hrs 5 min 1 stop
Nairobi (NBO) 10 hrs 25 min 1 stop

Mumbai Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 14 hrs 30 min Nonstop
Dallas (DFW) 18 hrs 50 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 17 hrs 25 min 1 stop
London (LHR) 8 hrs 40 min Nonstop
Manchester (MAN) 12 hrs 25 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 17 hrs 5 min 1 stop
Melbourne (MEL) 16 hrs 50 min 1 stop
Sharjah (SHJ) 2 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi (AUH) 2 hrs 50 min Nonstop
Dubai (DXB) 3 hrs Nonstop
Cape Town (CPT) 13 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Nairobi (NBO) 6 hrs 15 min Nonstop

Bangalore Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 1 stop
Houston (IAH) 19 hrs 50 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 18 hrs 1 stop
London (LHR) 9 hrs 50 min Nonstop
Manchester (MAN) 12 hrs 10 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 11 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Melbourne (MEL) 14 hrs 1 stop
Sharjah (SHJ) 3 hrs 45 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi (AUH) 3 hrs 40 min Nonstop
Dubai (DXB) 3 hrs 30 min Nonstop
Cape Town (CPT) 14 hrs 40 min 1 stop
Nairobi (NBO) 11 hrs 30 min 1 stop

Ahmedabad Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 25 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 17 hrs 15 min 1 stop
Vancouver (YVR) 18 hrs 30 min 1 stop
London (LHR) 12 hrs 1 stop
Manchester (MAN) 12 hrs 20 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 15 hrs 5 min 1 stop
Sharjah 2 hrs 30 min Nonstop
Dubai 2 hrs 35 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi 2 hrs 40 min Nonstop
Nairobi 10 hrs 35 min 1 stop

Chandigarh Airport: Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (IXC)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 25 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 17 hrs 5 min 1 stop
London (LHR) 12 hrs 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 17 hrs 5 min 1 stop
Sharjah 10 hrs 55 min 1 stop
Abu Dhabi 6 hrs 40 min 1 stop
Dubai 3 hrs 20 min Nonstop
Cape Town 14 hrs 45 min 1 stop
Nairobi 13 hrs 45 min 1 stop

Jaipur Airport: Jaipur International Airport (JAI)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 40 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 19 hrs 15 min 1 stop
London (LHR) 13 hrs 25 min 1 stop
Sydney (SYD) 18 hrs 35 min 1 stop
Sharjah 2 hrs 55 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi 7 hrs 25 min 1 stop
Dubai 8 hrs 20 min 1 stop
Nairobi 10 hrs 35 min 1 stop

Hyderabad Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA)

Flight Details: Duration and Routes
International Airports Flight Duration Stops
New York (JFK) 17 hrs 40 min 1 stop
Toronto (YYZ) 18 hrs 1 stop
London (LHR) 9 hrs 25 min Nonstop
Sydney (SYD) 14 hrs 10 min 1 stop
Sharjah 3 hrs 25 min Nonstop
Abu Dhabi 3 hrs 35 min Nonstop
Dubai 3 hrs 25 min Nonstop
Nairobi 10 hrs 45 min 1 stop
Disclaimer: Flight Duration and stops vary depending on the chosen airlines.

Travel Guidelines and Required Documents

  • e-Medical Visa: 6-month stay for treatment (except organ transplants).[8] Complete online process with no facilitation of embassy
  • Medical Attendant Visa: Given to those who are accompanying a patient who has been granted a medical visa as his/her escort. Maximum two attendants are permitted with a patient.
  • Proof of medical condition and need for treatment in India.
  • Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages.
  • Two recent color photos (5x5 cm, white background, 70% face zoom).
  • Copy of passport bio-data page (and second passport, if applicable).
  • Minors (under 12) with a copy of the parent’s Passport or ID.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement, passbook copy).
  • Copy of flight ticket booking.
  • Signed and stamped hospital invitation letter on official letterhead with applicant details. Check the format.
  • Apply for an online e-Medical Visa by uploading req. documents and paying a Visa fee.
  • Check the status online.
  • Processing time is 2-4 weeks.
  • Visa fees vary by type and duration.
  • Mandatory registration within 14 days of arrival for visas valid over 180 days.
  • No medical visa is required for unexpected medical consultations.
  • Visa-on-Arrival is available for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and UAE (60 days, double entry, limited to six airports).
  • A Medical Visa can be extended for up to one year by the local FRRO/FRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office/Foreigners Registration Office).
  • The visa extension beyond one year can only be granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Call toll-free 1800111363 or 1363 for 24x7 multilingual assistance (12 languages).
  • Medical visas are available to citizens from 167 countries as of August 2019.[9]

Intercity Travel in India

After arriving in India, understanding how to commute within its cities becomes the next step.

Top Train Options: Choose premium trains like Shatabdi, Rajdhani, Vande Bharat, or indulge in luxury trains.

Comfort Classes: Opt for 1st AC or 2nd AC for better privacy and comfort. 3rd AC may lack similar amenities.

Benefits

  • Air-conditioned comfort on premium trains.
  • Fast and efficient connections between major cities.
  • Cleanliness in major stations has significantly improved.

Vande Bharat Train - Superfast and Facilitated Train in India

Vande Bharat Train - Superfast Train in India

Travel Tips

  • Major stations are well-maintained. Smaller ones may still face crowding and less frequent cleaning challenges.
  • Carry sanitizers, wipes, and bottled water to ensure personal hygiene. Do this, especially when traveling through less-equipped stations.

Luxury Buses: Air-conditioned Volvo buses with reclining seats and Wi-Fi, perfect for long-distance or overnight travel.

India offers various bus services ranging from luxurious Volvo buses to basic state-run options.

Benefits

  • Comfortable travel with luxury buses, ideal for overnight journeys.
  • Affordable compared to air travel.
  • Connects many cities and towns, even those not served by trains or flights.

Volvo Buses India - Comfortable and Facilitated Bus in India

Volvo Buses India - Comfortable Bus Facility

Travel Tips

  • Basic buses can be uncomfortable, overcrowded, and prone to delays.
  • Avoid them for long journeys if comfort is a priority.
  • For long-distance travel, it’s better to opt for luxury bus services such as those offered by VRL Travels and SRS Travels.

India offers a mix of private taxi services and self-driving options for travelers, but the experience can vary:

Private Taxi Services: App-based services like Ola and Uber operate in major cities with GPS tracking.

Self-Driving Options: Companies like Zoomcar and Revv offer self-drive rentals.

Chauffeured Cars: Services like AVIS and MyTaxiIndia offer convenient car facilities with professional drivers.

Comfortable Taxi Services in India

Facilitated Taxi Services in India

Benefits

  • Full control over your itinerary and travel time.
  • Cost-effective option for those familiar with driving in foreign countries.

Travel Tips

  • Traffic congestion is common in major cities, and taxis may have limited availability in rural areas.
  • Expect potential delays, particularly during peak hours.
  • Always check fare details before booking a taxi.
  • First-time drivers, while self-driving, should be cautious.
  • It’s advisable to understand local traffic rules and driving customs.

Air travel is the quickest mode of transport across India, with frequent flights connecting major cities.

Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air operate nationwide.

Benefits

  • Fastest way to travel long distances in India.
  • Comfortable and convenient, especially for medical tourists who need to reach destinations quickly.
  • Airports in metro cities are equipped with medical facilities and multilingual staff.

Air Travel - Fastest mode to travel within India

Air Travel - Fastest mode to travel within India

Travel Tips

  • Airports in metro cities are well-equipped, but smaller regional airports may lack similar amenities.
  • Prepare for possible delays or inefficiencies at less popular airports.
  • Always check for any additional services or requirements.

Need help with your travel plans?

Talk to us

Best Time To Travel India

Unlike the West, where we see 4 distinct seasons:

Spring, Summer, Sall, and Winter

India experiences 3 vivid Seasons:

Summer, Monsoon (Rains), and winter.

Spring and Fall can be witnessed mildly during the transition period.

The balanced weather supports physical therapy, enhances mobility, and promotes overall well-being.

  • Months: March to June
  • Prepare Yourself:
    • Carry ORS and plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated.
    • Use a sunblock with a high SPF, wear light, and carry a hat and umbrella.
    • Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours; stay in temperature-controlled environments.
    • Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol and have cooling foods like yogurt and buttermilk.

Beautiful Rajasthan in Summers

Beautiful Rajasthan in Summers
  • Months: July to September
  • Prepare Yourself:
    • Carry rain shoes, waterproof clothing, and mosquito repellent.
    • Avoid stagnant water to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
    • Stick to bottled or boiled water and maintain personal hygiene.
    • Pack quick-dry towels and anti-fungal powder to prevent infections.

Mesmerizing monsoon in India

Mesmerizing monsoon in India
  • Months: Mid October - February
  • Prepare Yourself:
    • Carry thermal wear, warm blankets, and hot water bottles.
    • Keep medications handy for cold, joint, or muscle pain.
    • Use moisturizing creams to prevent dry skin and lip balm for chapped lips.
    • Avoid icy paths and wear non-slip footwear for safe mobility.

Snowy Winters in Shimla (near Chandigarh)

Snowy Winters in Shimla (near Chandigarh)

Note of consideration for medical tourists:

  • Spring/Fall is the ideal season to get dental, orthopedic, spine, cosmetic, and bariatric treatments.
  • Cooler weather reduces fatigue and makes cancer treatment more manageable.
  • Certain procedures like organ transplants can proceed, as the surgery takes precedence over weather concerns

Food in India

India’s diverse culture is best experienced through its wide array of cuisines.

We've curated a list of wholesome recovery meals and India's rich regional cuisines. Choose what suits you best, following your doctor’s advice.

  • Soft idlis (steamed rice cakes)
  • Vegetable Khichdi (mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables)
  • Dosa (fermented rice and lentil crepe)
  • Poha (flattened rice cooked with vegetables)
  • Dalia (nutritious cracked wheat porridge)
  • Upma (semolina cooked with spices and veggies)
  • Dhokla (steamed gram flour cake, soft and tangy)

Sambhar and Dosa - A famous and healthy South Indian Dish

Sambhar and Dosa
  • Gol Gappa or Paani Pri
  • Sarson ka Saag and Makke ki Roti
  • Vada Pav (spicy potato fritters in a bun)
  • Dal Baati Churma (lentils, baked wheat balls, and sweet crumble)
  • Jalebi (syrupy dessert)
  • Goan Fish Curry with coconut flavors
  • Chana Samosa
  • Macher Jhol (Bengali fish curry)
  • Thukpa (clear soup made with vegetables or meat)
  • Momos

Vada Pav - A famous and affordable snack of Maharashtra

Vada Pav

Hotel and Staying

India offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious seven-star hotels.

As a medical tourist, choosing reputed hotels with facilities tailored to support your recovery is advisable. This will ensure comfort, hygiene, and necessary amenities.

Top Hotels Nearby Clinics in India

Tips to Choose the Suitable Hotel

  • Choose accommodations within 2–5 km to reduce travel fatigue.
  • Ensure elevators, wheelchair access, and nearby pharmacies.
  • Read reviews from other medical tourists to know their first-hand experience.
  • Ensure the accommodation's booking policies are flexible, allowing changes or cancellations.
  • Ask if the hospital offers discounted stay-and-treatment medical packages.
  • Prices may surge during peak tourist seasons (winter or festivals).

Cultural Considerations

To make your experience seamless and respectful, keep these cultural aspects in mind:

  • Though handshakes are common in urban settings, the traditional greeting involves placing your palms together and bowing slightly.
  • Be mindful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples, respecting food restrictions in certain areas, and avoiding wearing revealing clothes.

Foreigner lady greeting in Indian style (Namaste)

Prefer doing Namaste in India

Language and Communication

  • Medical staff in major hospitals and cities often speak fluent English.
  • Many hospitals provide in-house translators. Request, if unavailable.
  • Use apps like Google Translate to bridge minor language gaps.
  • Ensure your treatment plan, medication details, and post-care instructions are provided in English.
  • Some non-medical staff may lack English proficiency. Politely request assistance.
Source: IJLPA [10], ISOT[11]

Aftercare

Medical tourism itself tends to combine medical trips with tourism. But it’s important to create a balance between recovery and travel.

Here's a closer look at popular treatments and tips:

  • Recovery: Quick and typically swift, with a short rest period.
  • Do's: Engage in moderate activities like visiting parks, shopping centers, or historic sites.
  • Dont's: Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods.

Dentist-with-happy-international-patient-at-Dent-Ally,-New-Delhi

Dentist with an international patient at Dent Ally, Delhi
  • Recovery: Requires rest and physiotherapy, especially for joint replacements.
  • Do's: Light tourism, such as visiting scenic spots or gardens is manageable
  • Dont's: Avoid long walking tours or physically demanding activities until cleared by the doctor..

Doctor assessing Knee Replacement patient

Doctor assessing Knee Replacement patient
  • Recovery: Longer periods with multiple sessions of therapy.
  • Do's: Always consult your healthcare provider before planning trips during or after treatment.
  • Dont's: Avoid traveling during treatment if continuous medical supervision is required.

Cancer Patient assissted by doctor

Cancer Patient assisted by doctor
  • Recovery: Requires significant post-operative care and follow-up visits.
  • Do's: Follow medication schedules and adhere to restrictions that may limit mobility.
  • Dont's: Always discuss travel plans with your doctor before proceeding.

Kidney-transplant--patient-Mr. Earl-in-India

Happy Kidney Transplant Patient Mr. Earl with Dr. Shafiq
  • Recovery: Demands significant post-operative care.
  • Do's: Engage in light activities like visiting museums or parks once cleared by the doctor.
  • Dont's: Avoid long flights or extensive travel during the early recovery phase.

Spine-Surgery-in-India

Spine Surgery in India

Safety and Travel Tips for Medical Tourists

  • Currency Exchange: Exchange larger amounts at accredited bureaus.
  • Medical Documents: Carry prescriptions and prior medical records.
  • Vaccinations: Consult a doctor for recommended vaccines.
  • Safe Food and Drinks: Drink bottled water and avoid uncooked street food.
  • Essentials: Pack meds, sanitizer, travel pillow, and water bottles.
  • Travel Safety: Political protests may disrupt travel; stay updated.

Avoid-drinking-tap-water-in-India

Avoid Drinking Tap Water in India

Emergency Contacts

  • 112: National emergency number
  • 100: Police emergency number
  • 1363: Tourist helpline number
  • 1322: Indian Railway security helpline
  • Contact no. of medical assistance company and hospital

Communication

English is common in India, and many people speak it, especially in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. However, India is a diverse country with regional languages.

Knowing a few words of Hindi, which is a common language across the country, is beneficial

  • Help me - 'Madad Karo'
  •  Yes - 'Haan'
  • No - 'Nahi'
  • I want water - 'Mujhe paani chahie'
  • Thank You - 'Shukriya'
  • Sorry - 'Mujhe maaf karna'

Why Should You Use a Medical Tourism Company?

Using a Medical Tourism Company can be a great choice for many patients seeking care abroad. Here's all you need to know:

Benefits of Using a Medical Tourism Company

  • Hassle-Free Planning: Seamless management of travel and medical logistics saves time.
  • Local Expertise: In-depth knowledge ensures smooth navigation of foreign healthcare systems.
  • Package Deals: Cost-effective all-in-one solutions for treatment, travel, and stay.

How To Choose the Right Medial Tourism Company?

  • Ensure they provide end-to-end services, from hospital selection to post-procedure consultations, for a seamless experience.
  • Look for clear, itemized pricing and transparent policies, including those for cancellations and unforeseen complications.
  • Verify the credentials of partnered hospitals and medical professionals to ensure high-quality care.
  • Check if they offer other services like visa assistance, transportation, and accommodation.
  • Request patient testimonials to assess the company’s reputation and service quality.

How Medical Tourism Corporation (MTC) Can Assist You?

Our partnerships with top facilities allow us to offer affordable, personalized medical tourism packages in India.

From your airport arrival, our destination manager will meet all your needs.

Here’s how we assist:

  • Pre-trip consultations with physicians
  • Travel and tourism guidance
  • Mobile phone and internet service
  • Post-discharge consultations
  • Optional medical complications coverage

Contact us now to get started with your treatment planning!

Ready to visit India for medical care?

Plan your trip with MTC

FAQs About Medical Tourism in India

How long does it take to get a medical visa for India?

Completing an online medical visa application takes about 3-5 minutes. The approved visa is usually emailed within 72 hours.[10]. Apply early to avoid delays. Reach out to us for guidance on your visa arrangements.

Does India accept US health insurance?

U.S. Medicare/Medicaid doesn’t cover overseas medical costs. On the other hand, private insurance companies may or may not cover all expenses. For further assistance, contact MTC.

How to find the right hospital and doctor in India?

Selecting the right hospital and doctor can be challenging on your part. Thus, consider consulting trusted medical tourism companies like MTC.

We connect you with accredited hospitals and experienced doctors, ensuring personalized, high-quality care. Contact us to start the process now.

 

 

How long does it take to schedule a surgery in India?

In India, wait times are generally short. Some treatments can be scheduled within a week.

 

How do Indian hospitals ensure patient safety?

Indian hospitals ensure safety through NQAS guidelines, ISO certifications, and strict adherence to infection control, surgical protocols, and medication safety.

They train staff on evidence-based practices, involve patients in decisions, and focus on continuous improvement for high-quality care.

Are follow-up consultations possible after leaving India?

Yes, many hospitals offer virtual consultations to continue care remotely.

 

Conclusion

From providing monetary benefits to comfort, Medical Tourism in India covers all your needs.

MTC will help you get a successful treatment from top hospitals and surgeons in India.

References