Global Spa Awards 2026 Honour Kamalaya, Ananda, Lanserhof, Clinique La Prairie and Six Senses Vana

Written By: Mrinmay Karmakar

Mrinmay Karmakar

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March 10, 2026 11:10 PM |

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The global wellness tourism sector continues to expand as travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer relaxation, nature, and holistic wellbeing experiences. The Global Spa Awards 2026 recognised some of the world’s finest wellness retreats, spa resorts, and therapeutic travel destinations that deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The awards were organised to celebrate excellence within the international spa and wellness industry. They highlight destinations that offer high-quality hospitality, innovative wellness programs, and memorable travel experiences for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nominees for the third edition were selected by a panel of spa professionals, wellness experts, travel journalists, and sustainability specialists. In addition to expert evaluation, more than 85,000 public votes helped determine the final winners, ensuring the results reflect both industry standards and traveller satisfaction.

Each year, the awards showcase destinations that set new benchmarks in wellness tourism and luxury spa hospitality.

Rising Popularity of Wellness Tourism

Wellness tourism has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel industry. Travellers are increasingly prioritising health-focused holidays that include yoga, meditation, spa therapies, nature experiences, and nutrition-based wellness programs.

Global tourism organisations such as the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) report that many countries are now promoting wellness travel as part of their tourism development strategies.

In India, wellness tourism is promoted by the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of AYUSH, which highlight traditional practices such as yoga and Ayurveda through the Incredible India campaign. These initiatives encourage international travellers to explore India’s heritage of holistic healing and wellness.

The Global Spa Awards recognise destinations that successfully combine traditional wellness practices with modern therapies and high-quality hospitality.

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary Named Best Global Holistic Haven

The award for Best Global Holistic Haven was presented to Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa in Thailand. The retreat is known for integrating traditional healing methods with modern wellness programs.

Located in a peaceful natural setting, the sanctuary offers personalised programs focused on mindfulness, nutrition, relaxation, and emotional balance. Guests can participate in meditation sessions, wellness consultations, and holistic treatments designed to support long-term wellbeing.

Other highly commended destinations in this category included Chiva-Som Hua Hin in Thailand, Six Senses Vana in India, and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan in Indonesia.

Ananda in the Himalayas Wins Best Global Ayurveda Retreat

India received international recognition when Ananda in the Himalayas won the award for Best Global Ayurveda Retreat.

Ayurveda, one of India’s oldest traditional wellness systems, focuses on balancing lifestyle, diet, and natural therapies to maintain harmony between the body and mind. According to India’s Ministry of AYUSH, Ayurveda promotes preventive healthcare and holistic wellbeing.

Located in the Himalayan foothills, Ananda offers authentic Ayurvedic therapies combined with yoga, meditation, and nature-based wellness programs. The retreat attracts international travellers who want to experience India’s traditional healing practices in a tranquil setting.

Other recognised destinations in this category included Six Senses Vana in India, Ayurveda Parkschlösschen in Germany, and Kalari Rasayana by CGH Earth Ayurveda in India.

Germany’s Lanserhof Tegernsee Named Best Detox Retreat

The Best Global Detox Retreat award was presented to Lanserhof Tegernsee in Germany. Detox retreats are becoming increasingly popular among travellers seeking to reset their lifestyle and improve their overall health.

Lanserhof Tegernsee combines modern medical expertise with wellness therapies that include nutrition guidance, relaxation treatments, and structured wellness routines.

Other notable destinations in this category included Buchinger Wilhelmi Lake Constance in Germany, SHA Mexico, Park Igls in Austria, and Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland.

Clinique La Prairie Wins Best Medi-Spa

Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland received the award for Best Global Medi-Spa. Medi-spas combine luxury spa experiences with medical consultations and preventive healthcare programs.

Switzerland has developed a strong reputation for wellness tourism due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and scenic Alpine landscapes. Visitors often travel to such destinations for personalised wellness programs focused on long-term health and relaxation.

Six Senses Vana Named Best Global Wellness Retreat

India achieved another recognition as Six Senses Vana was named Best Global Wellness Retreat.

Located in a forest environment, the retreat offers wellness programs inspired by yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and Tibetan healing traditions. The property provides a peaceful setting where guests can reconnect with nature and focus on their personal wellbeing.

Global Wellness Tourism Continues to Expand

The Global Spa Awards 2026 highlight how wellness tourism is reshaping modern travel experiences. From Ayurvedic retreats in India to luxury spa resorts in the Maldives and sustainable wellness destinations in Malaysia, travellers now have more opportunities to explore health-focused holidays.

As governments and tourism organisations continue to promote wellness travel, the global wellness tourism sector is expected to grow further in the coming years.

These award-winning destinations demonstrate how travel can combine relaxation, culture, nature, and wellbeing to create meaningful and restorative experiences for visitors around the world.