The report ranked Sri Lanka first among the world’s fastest-growing wellness travel destinations, recording an impressive 100 percent year-on-year increase in traveller interest through the platform. Australia secured second place with an 85 percent increase, followed by Morocco (83%), England (82%), and Spain (80%). Nepal and Thailand ranked sixth and seventh respectively.
The findings are based on a survey of 1,040 travellers in the United States, which revealed that nearly half (49%) plan to spend on a wellness retreat in 2026. The report highlights a growing global trend towards travel focused on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, rather than traditional leisure holidays.
Sri Lanka’s rich Ayurvedic heritage, spanning more than 2,000 years, has been identified as a major factor behind the country’s growing popularity. The island is renowned for its doctor-led Ayurvedic treatments, yoga retreats, meditation programmes, and holistic healing experiences, offering authentic wellness services at competitive prices. According to BookRetreats.com, three- to four-day wellness retreats in Sri Lanka start at approximately US$372.
The report also credits Sri Lanka’s tourism-friendly policies for enhancing its appeal. From May 25, 2026, the Government waived visa fees for visitors from 40 countries, making the destination more accessible and affordable for international travellers.
Beyond wellness experiences, Sri Lanka’s year-round beach destinations, made possible by its dual monsoon seasons, provide visitors with favourable weather regardless of the season. The island’s diverse wildlife, including wild elephants and offshore blue whales, also offers travellers unique experiences between wellness activities.
BookRetreats.com noted that the global wellness tourism industry is expanding rapidly. The Global Wellness Institute forecasts the sector will reach a value of US$1.4 trillion by 2027, reflecting increasing demand for health-focused travel experiences worldwide.
The report ranked the world’s top trending wellness destinations for 2026 as follows:
1. Sri Lanka (+100%)
2. Australia (+85%)
3. Morocco (+83%)
4. England (+82%)
5. Spain (+80%)
6. Nepal (+52%)
7. Thailand (+48%)
8. Mexico (+44%)
9. Costa Rica (+42%)
10. Canada (+36%)
Sri Lanka’s top ranking is expected to further strengthen its reputation as a premier wellness tourism destination while supporting ongoing efforts to attract high-value international visitors and boost the country’s tourism sector.
