- Research shows that yoga tourism in India is on the rise.
- India reportedly ranks 10th in the international medical and wellness tourism index.
In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent a remarkable 17 hours inside a luxurious “Rudra meditation cave” located a little over one kilometer away from Kedarnath. This occurred on the final day of the general elections, further raising their prominence and, in some cases, controversy.
The PM’s brainchild of meditation caves and spiritual retreats in India, envisioning a serene and secluded space for pilgrims to meditate, gained ground in the post-Covid period to combat dwindling tourism in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
The Modi association with yoga retreats gave a huge boost to wellness tourism in India. In 2022, there were 64 bookings of the yoga caves, according to Sudarshan Khatri, the regional manager of the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) in Rudraprayag and Pauri.
Moreover, in 2023, the respective governments of Goa and Uttarakhand signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote meditation tourism in India. This was part of the Centre’s “Dekho Apna Desh” program.
A chief shareholder in this promotion of yoga tourism in India, renowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev of Patanjali Ayurved Company suggested the incorporation of yoga and meditation rooms in hotels in tourist destinations to make these holistic mindfulness practices more accessible.
Speaking to the Indian magazine Outlook, he said: “The current century is of science and spirituality. India’s soft power is its spirituality that is being practiced in the country for centuries … The tourism department can also create space for yoga, wellness, and panchkarma sessions … The world is going through stress and anxiety. But yoga and meditation can offer solutions to these problems.”
Is Yoga Tourism Gaining Ground In India?
Yoga tourism in India is undeniably gaining ground, as more and more travelers from around the world are seeking transformative experiences that combine the ancient practice of yoga with the diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty of the country.
India, the birthplace of yoga, has become a global hub for those seeking to deepen their practice, rejuvenate their minds and bodies, and immerse themselves in the rich spiritual traditions that yoga embodies.
One of the main reasons behind the growth of yoga tourism in India is the increasing recognition of yoga’s health benefits and its ability to promote overall well-being. With modern life becoming increasingly stressful, people are turning to yoga as a means to find balance, inner peace, and a connection with their inner selves.
The tranquil and serene environment of India’s yoga retreat centers, often nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, provides the perfect setting for individuals to unwind and embark on a transformative journey during holidays or when they need space to recharge their energies—mentally and physically.
Best Yoga Destinations In India
As of 2023, India ranks 10th in the international medical and wellness tourism index. Back in 2022, the Ministry of Tourism even formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism.
The best yoga destinations in India are dotted across the country. Rishikesh, often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas.
It is home to numerous ashrams, yoga schools, and meditation centers, offering a wide range of yoga programs and spiritual retreats. Another popular destination in India is Kerala, known for its tranquil backwaters, lush greenery, and Ayurvedic traditions.
Goa, the tropical paradise on India’s western coast, is also a thriving yoga destination. With its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and wide range of yoga retreat centers, Goa attracts yogis seeking a combination of yoga, relaxation, and beachside bliss. Other known yoga centers in India include:
- Kanha Shanti Vanam in Hyderabad
- Osho International Meditation Resort in Pune
- Auroville in Pondicherry
- The Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru
- Vipassana International Academy in Igatpuri
- Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore
Therefore, yoga tourism in India is undoubtedly on the rise. Whether one is a seasoned practitioner or a beginner looking to embark on a wellness journey, India provides the perfect setting to explore the depths of yoga and find inner harmony.