Kerala Named India’s Best Wellness Destination in Travel + Leisure India Awards 2025

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has been selected as the country’s best wellness destination, Minister for Tourism and Public Works, Mohammed Riyas, announced. The state secured a place in Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025 list. The selection was made through online voting, the minister said.

Under the LDF government, Kerala has emerged as one of India’s safest and most beautiful global tourism hotspots. The number of domestic and international tourists visiting the state has reached an all-time high. According to figures for the first six months up to June 2025, Kerala welcomed 12.37 million (1,23,72,864) tourists. Of these, 11.99 million (1,19,89,864) were domestic tourists, while 383,000 were foreign visitors.

The growth has been attributed to expanded tourism marketing strategies aligned with changing times and the implementation of diverse tourism projects. As part of the “Look East Policy,” Kerala strengthened tourism marketing and cooperation in countries ranging from China to Australia. Kerala is the only state in India with four international airports.

Kochi has also been included in the list of must-visit destinations for 2026. The city featured in Booking.com’s list of the top 10 trending destinations. Kochi earned its place alongside world-class destinations on the list.

Booking.com noted that Kochi’s inclusion was aided by its presentation of South India’s cultural wealth and natural beauty to the world. The platform described Kochi as a reflection of centuries of global trade and cultural exchange.

Kerala’s natural attractions—such as backwater cruises in Alappuzha, trekking through the mist-covered hills and tea plantations of Munnar, and relaxing on the golden sands of Marari Beach—were described as beyond words. Booking.com also highlighted Kochi International Airport as a major gateway to Kerala, offering excellent connectivity from across the world.