Wellness seekers will find that their money stretches significantly further in Asia this year, according to new research from BookRetreats.com. The Wellness Cost Index, which analyzed 42 wellness destinations across five wellness travel expenses—a retreat, healthy food, massage, yoga class, and local transport found that 10 of the top 15 cheapest destinations for wellness are in Asia, including No.1.
Rishikesh: The Best Value Wellness Destination
Rishikesh, India, emerged as the best value destination for wellness overall, with all surveyed travel costs, including a three-four day retreat, averaging €131—less than a single massage treatment in Switzerland’s Valais region (€159). Located in the Himalayan foothills, the sacred city combines its deep-rooted yoga heritage with accessible wellness offerings: drop-in yoga classes from €4 and 90-minute massages at €28.
Affordable Wellness in India: Goa Takes Second Place
India’s coastal state Goa ranks second, making it the most affordable beach destination for wellness at €216—a marked contrast to similar coastal breaks in Florida (€965) and Cornwall (€681). Ubud, Bali, claims third place at €219. This value extends throughout Southeast Asia, with wellness costs in Siargao, Phuket, Hoi An, and Siem Reap all ranging between €380-450.
Africa: A Hub for Affordable Wellness
Beyond Asia, Africa also reveals itself as a hub for affordable wellness tourism. Morocco’s Agadir-Ida-Ou Tanane region ranks fifth, matching the Canary Islands’ year-round sunshine and pristine beaches while saving travelers €212. Reinforcing its recent status as the best value long-haul destination in Post Office Travel Money’s annual ranking, Cape Town comes in 8th position, combining high temperatures and healthy local food with affordable retreat prices.
Affordable Wellness in Europe: Surprising Destinations
Granada in Spain is the highest-placed of 19 European destinations surveyed, holding sixth place with a budget €200 less than Lisbon, Athens, and the Canary Islands. Bulgaria’s Varna is another destination in Europe to offer surprising value. The coastal resort city matches Asian prices with €9 yoga classes and spa treatments at half the cost of Tuscany, Amsterdam, and Helsinki.
Premium Wellness in Western Destinations
The study’s highest prices appear in Switzerland’s Valais region, where costs for a wellness break average €982; more than seven times the cost in Rishikesh. This premium pricing characterizes most of Europe, with Florida and Vancouver also ranking among the most expensive destinations, reflecting these regions’ high living costs and focus on luxury wellness tourism.
Sean Kelly on the Findings
Sean Kelly, Co-founder of BookRetreats.com, comments, “The Wellness Cost Index maps affordable wellness breaks worldwide. While European destinations continue to set luxury standards, our research shows that some of the most affordable journeys can be found in Asia and Africa, where wellness traditions are a way of life.
Travelers will find great value in destinations like India, Morocco, Nepal, and Bali this year, with trips costing 72% less than premium Western alternatives. As wellness becomes essential rather than an optional add-on during vacations, destinations that offer authentic experiences at accessible prices are set to lead the way.”
