As if you needed another reason to plan a trip to one of the world’s most luxurious hot springs, now science is doing its part to make it a medical expense. Throughout Europe and Asia, several of the world’s academic types have devoted themselves to the cultivation of a science known as balneology, or the “treatment of disease by bathing.” Specifically, these folks try to determine whether or not hot springs have some medicinal benefit that validates the age-old belief that hot springs can improve blood flow, metabolism, and increase your body’s supply of important minerals. Wait, you say you haven’t heard of balneology? Probably because it’s mostly hooey — but it still sounds science-y enough to help you rationalize a trip to one of these gorgeous hot springs scattered across the world.
1. Khir Ganga, India
Grab a therapeutic dip at remote Khir Ganga in the Himalayas. You’ll need to hike about 4 hours to get there, but the workout is a great primer for the luxurious soak in these stunning Indian hot springs.
