Travel Insurance

When planning a trip to Nepal, especially for trekking routes such as Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, or remote cultural tours, travel insurance is highly recommended.

In Nepal's high-altitude areas, there are risks like acute mountain sickness (AMS), injuries, flight delays, and emergency helicopter evacuations, which can be very expensive if you don't have the right insurance.

In fact, most trekking companies in Nepal strongly suggest that travellers get insurance before they arrive. This is because getting people out of the mountains can cost thousands of dollars and is often the only option in an emergency.

The terrain is the main reason why travel insurance is required for trekking in Nepal. Most trekking routes go above 3,000m to 5,000m, where the weather is unpredictable, and there aren't many medical facilities.
A good policy should have the following:

  • Coverage for high-altitude trekking (up to 5,500m–6,000m).
  • Helicopter evacuation from remote areas in an emergency.
  • Medical care and hospital stays in Nepal.
  • Protection against trip cancellations or delays.
  • When travelling internationally, bags can get lost or delayed.

Without this coverage, trekkers may have to pay for their own evacuation, which can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on where they are.

Recommended International Travel Insurance Providers

Travellers from all over the world can choose insurance from companies that are known to be reliable. Some well-known companies that offer trekking insurance in Nepal are:

  • USA & Canada: IMG Global, Allianz Travel Insurance, World Nomads
  • Europe & UK: True Traveller, Allianz Assistance, AXA Travel Insurance
  • Singapore & Southeast Asia: Singlife Travel Insurance, AIG Asia, NTUC Income
  • Malaysia: Allianz Malaysia, AIG Malaysia, Tune Protect
  • Australia & New Zealand: Cover-More Travel Insurance, Southern Cross Travel Insurance
  • Global Adventure Coverage: World Nomads, Global Rescue

These companies are frequently used for high-altitude trekking in Nepal, but it's crucial to make sure that your plan expressly covers both helicopter evacuation and trekking above 5,000 metres.

Notice for All Travellers

Please be aware that no trekking or tour packages in Nepal include travel insurance. Before beginning their trip, travellers must arrange their own insurance. It is highly advised that insurance be obtained prior to departure, or at the very least, prior to the start of the trek, for operational and safety reasons.