Visa guidance · direct flights · cost in GBP · insurance + language notes · best season. Built for European 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 / 90 / 365 | UK passport holders | $25 | 3 days |
| e-Ayush Visa | 60 / 120 | For AYUSH treatment | $80 | 5 days |
| e-Medical Visa | 60 | For medical treatment | $80 | 5 days |
Kerala has 4 international airports — Kochi (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Calicut (CCJ), and Kannur (CNN). Direct flights from United Kingdom land mainly at COK + TRV.
London Heathrow (LHR) 1 stop
Air India + British Airways via Delhi or Mumbai; 1 stop, ~13–14h total
London Gatwick (LGW) 1 stop
Via Dubai (Emirates) or Doha (Qatar); 1 stop
Manchester (MAN) 1 stop
Via Dubai or Doha; 1 stop
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 GBP ≈ ₹106. Exchange rates vary — confirm before quoting your booking.
GBP cards work at all major centres. Razorpay handles GBP via international rails. Consider Wise or Revolut for better FX than UK bank cards.
English universal at classified centres. Malayalam is the local language.
NHS does not cover treatment abroad. Most UK private insurance (Bupa, AXA, Aviva) does NOT cover Ayurveda. Some specialist travel insurers (e.g. Holiday Extras Wellness) offer cover — verify before booking.
Best months: October–March (winter escape window). Karkidaka (mid-July–August) for monsoon Panchakarma.
What to pack: Light cottons for tropical climate. Light raincoat or umbrella if travelling Jun–Aug. Modest cover-ups for temple visits. Bring your usual prescription meds in original packaging.
Real patient stories from United Kingdom 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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