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Medical Trips Cost Most, Wellness Spending Climbs
7 Oct
Summary
- Health and medical trips show highest average expenditures.
- Wellness and spa spending grew by 15% at one hotel.
- Travellers increasingly link wellbeing to overall travel.
Government data from the Domestic Tourism Expenditure Survey (July 2025-June 2026) highlights that health and medical trips record the highest average expenditures. Rural households reported an average of ₹29,454, while urban households spent ₹41,649. These figures specifically relate to health and medical travel, not wellness. Around 80% of visitors undertake overnight trips lasting five days or less.
Concurrently, the travel industry notes a growing trend in wellness-related spending. At Noor Mahal Delhi NCR, Autograph Collection by Marriott International, expenditure on wellness and spa experiences has increased by 15% in the past year. This suggests travellers are increasingly viewing wellbeing as an integral part of their holiday, extending spending to personalized spa therapies and mindful dining.
However, the commitment to wellness varies. Some guests prefer shorter relaxation periods, like spa treatments. Others, seeking dedicated wellness retreats, may opt for longer programs such as Ayurveda or nutrition-led stays, which can significantly increase overall travel budgets due to extended accommodation and food expenses.
For instance, Six Senses Vana offers programs ranging from five nights for sleep and detox to 14 nights for weight management and Ayurveda. Guests are actively seeking personalized wellness experiences that combine various practices. This indicates a flexible approach to wellness travel, catering to both short renewal breaks and longer, immersive journeys.
