When talking about Kerala, we often think of popular spots like Munnar, Kochi, and Wayanad. However, Kovalam, a charming coastal town in Kerala, is gaining attention for all the right reasons. Digital travel platform Agoda has put together a list of the most refreshing wellness destinations in Asia, ideal for travelers looking for health-focused experiences. Surprise! Kovalam has taken the top spot. Read on to know more about this.
Wellness travel is on the rise as more individuals focus on self-care and mindful living, seeking getaways that blend relaxation with health advantages. From thermal spas to yoga retreats, these locations provide a wonderful mix of serenity and energy, perfect for anyone wanting to relax and recharge.
Kovalam, known as the birthplace of Ayurveda, is a paradise for those interested in traditional healing practices. Agoda describes Kovalam as, “With its peaceful beaches and top-notch Ayurvedic resorts, visitors can experience personalized treatments, yoga classes, and customized diets. It’s the ideal place for achieving mind-body balance.”
In second place is Gangwon-do, South Korea, recently acknowledged as one of the “2025 Outstanding Wellness Tourism Sites in South Korea” by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Gangwon-do is truly a wellness paradise.
Completing the top five are Beppu, Japan; Chiang Rai, Thailand; and Coron, Philippines. Here’s the full top 8 list:
- Kovalam, India
- Gangwon-do, South Korea
- Beppu, Japan
- Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Coron, Philippines
- Da Lat, Vietnam
- Jiaoxi, Taiwan
- Ipoh, Malaysia
Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President at Agoda, shared, “Wellness travel is all about finding balance, and Asia offers some of the most unique and rejuvenating experiences in the world. At Agoda, we’re thrilled to help travelers discover these incredible destinations where they can relax, recharge, and reconnect with themselves.”
How To Reach Kovalam
To get to Kovalam, the closest major transportation options are Trivandrum International Airport and Trivandrum Central Railway Station, both around 15-16 km from Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram. You can easily take a taxi, cab, auto-rickshaw, or bus from there to get to Kovalam.
