Visa guidance · direct flights · cost in SAR · insurance + language notes · best season. Built for GCC patients planning a residential Panchakarma course.
Verify current requirements on the official Indian visa portal before applying — visa rules can change.
| Visa | Duration | Eligibility | Fee (USD) | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist Visa (30/60 days) | 30 / 60 | Saudi residents | $25 | 3 days |
| e-Ayush Visa (60 / 120 days) | 60 / 120 | AYUSH treatment specifically | $80 | 5 days |
| e-Medical Visa (60 days) | 60 | Medical treatment — treatment letter required | $80 | 5 days |
Kerala has 4 international airports — Kochi (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Calicut (CCJ), and Kannur (CNN). Direct flights from Saudi Arabia land mainly at COK + TRV.
King Khalid Intl (Riyadh) (RUH) Direct
Air India Express, Saudia, IndiGo to COK + TRV; ~5h
King Abdulaziz (Jeddah) (JED) Direct
Saudia, Air India direct to COK + TRV; ~5h
King Fahd (Dammam) (DMM) Direct
IndiGo, Air India Express to COK; ~5h
Airport → centre. Most classified Panchakarma centres arrange complimentary or paid pickup from the nearest airport. Typical drive times: COK→Kottayam 1h, COK→Thrissur 1h 30m, TRV→Kollam 1h 30m, CCJ→Wayanad 2h, CCJ→Kottakkal 1h. Confirm at booking.
Static conversion at 1 SAR ≈ ₹22.1. Exchange rates vary — confirm before quoting your booking.
SAR cards work at most centres via international Razorpay. Currency exchange easily available at Kochi, Trivandrum airports.
Arabic-speaking reception at major Kerala medical-tourism centres. English is universal at classified centres.
Saudi health insurance typically does not cover Ayurveda abroad. Bupa Arabia and Tawuniya offer some international medical riders — confirm scope with your provider before travel.
Best months: October–March. Karkidaka (mid-July–August) for monsoon Panchakarma.
What to pack: Lightweight cottons; modest dress recommended in temple regions. Bring prescription medication for first 30 days in original packaging.
Real patient stories from Saudi Arabia will appear here as they come in. If you've done a course in Kerala, share your experience — anonymously if preferred.
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