11 Medical Tourism India Benefits, Costs and Risks

7. Travel, lodging and recovery costs to budget for

Beyond medical bills, travel and stay costs add up and should be part of your decision. Budget for round-trip flights for you and a companion, local transfers, visa fees such as the Ayush Visa (or other medical visa categories), and comfortable lodging near your hospital if required. Some patients stay in recovery hotels or rehab centres for weeks after major surgery, which adds to the bill but can protect against early complications. Companion costs — food, local transport, and intermittent flights — often double your non-medical expense. Also factor in extra nights if pre-op tests or scheduling changes occur. For longer treatments like IVF cycles or transplant assessments, multiple trips may be needed, so tally round-trip costs accordingly. Many hospitals partner with nearby hotels and can help arrange discounts; ask whether hospital shuttle services are available. Planning these logistics ahead prevents surprises and makes recovery less stressful.