Travel insurance for Nepal trekking is an insurance policy mainly for coverage against the risks during trekking in the remote and high-altitude parts of Nepal. It is best to cover the trekkers against mishaps like medical emergencies, evacuation costs, trip cancellations and loss or damage of equipment.
The ideal travel insurance for Nepal trekking has a full package of cover for the treatment of altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation and medical emergencies since these are the main problems that are faced while doing a trek in the Himalayas.
It is very important to pick the right insurance because Nepal's rough terrain and the weather can change quickly are the main reasons for the high risk of getting injured or sick. Besides that, in most cases, the trekking permits for a large number of routes require that the persons provide insurance before they are issued.
A suitable policy should be insurance that also covers trip delays and provides 24/7 emergency assistance. By understanding these key features, the trekkers will be able to choose the best insurance, which will guarantee their safety, give them peace of mind, and comply with the local regulations during the whole trip.
Which is the Best Travel Insurance for Nepal Trekking in 2025/2026?
In 2025, to trek in Nepal, the right travel insurance requires high attention to coverage, especially for high-altitude treks. In 2026, the number of people interested in comprehensive insurance policies will grow due to the increased awareness and popularity of the Nepalese trekking routes. It is considered best that the insurance coverage, including emergency medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellations, and loss or damage of the equipment, is carried out.
Besides, it is vital to make sure that the insurance company covers the trekking regions and the altitudes you have planned.
Many trekkers in 2025 have found it difficult to get reimbursed for the insurance which covers the high-altitude trekking up to 6000 meters and is affordable. World Nomads and SafetyWing are known to be the most reliable providers. However, some travelers have informed us that due to the growing number of claims in Nepal, they have experienced an increase in the premium.
For example, one of the travelers said that the quotation of World Nomads was over 400 Euros. At the same time, another one discovered the mountain rescue insurance for an altitude of 6000 meters at a much lower price. Such a situation will remain this way in 2026, so it is necessary to compare the policies and the providers and to decide which are the ones that, after having considered the costs of premiums, provide the highest coverage.
The future projections for 2026 indicate that the insurers will equip themselves accordingly so as to be able to follow the changes in the trekking market in Nepal. New umbrella policies will fill in the gaps of the existing ones, and solo hiking travelers or those who venture into remote areas will certainly find themselves benefiting.
Besides, it is advisable to keep up with changes and alterations as they unfold and choose those providers that match the traveler’s itinerary and can offer full and comprehensive coverage.
Insurance Provider
Max Altitude Covered
Emergency Evacuation
Gear Coverage
Adventure Sports Included
Trip Interruption/Cancellation
COVID-19 Coverage
World Nomads
Up to 6,000 m
Yes – Helicopter rescue included
Yes – up to $3,000
Yes – includes trekking, climbing, rafting
Yes – included in higher-tier plan
Yes
IMG Global
Up to 6,000 m
Yes – up to policy max
Optional Add-on
Yes – with sports rider
Yes – add-on available
Yes
SafetyWing Nomad
Up to 4,500 m (extendable)
Yes – up to $100,000
No
Yes – via adventure add-on
No – interruption only
Yes
TrueTraveller (UK/EU residents)
Up to 6,000 m
Yes – full coverage
Yes – up to £2,000
Yes – included
Yes
Yes
InsureMyTrip
Varies by provider
Yes – depends on plan
Varies by provider
Varies – needs filtering
Yes – included in most plans
Yes
Allianz Travel
Up to 4,000 m
Yes – limited helicopter
No (minimal)
No – limited adventure cover
Yes – strong trip coverage
Yes
Global Rescue (Membership)
Unlimited (no altitude cap)
Yes – full extraction services
No traditional travel cover
Yes – includes mountaineering
No – not a full travel policy
Yes
Travel Insurance Recommendations for Nepal Trekking For USA & Canada Residents
Travel Insirance For Nepal Trekking For Usa Hikers
Travel Insurance Provider 1: Battleface.com
Headquarters & Location
Headquarters: Columbus, OH, USA
Service Locations: This is available to individuals in the United States on routes in Canada.
Battleface is especially popular with trekkers and travelers as it is an insurance policy that is available for purchase after departure and, figuratively, from Nepal.
Altitude Coverage - up to 6,000 meters, i.e., Everest BC, Annapurna circuit.
Helicopter Evacuation Fully covered for emergency mountain rescue (you need not even worry about helicopter costs)
Faye is a new-age travel insurance company that offers a mobile app service along with a personalized stance. You must purchase the plans before you leave the U.S.
Altitude Coverage: In most instances, it covers safe altitudes up to 4,000–4,500 meters
Evacuation: It includes emergency medical transport. Check if Heli-rescue is included as well
Adventure Sports: Trekking - covered with specified extended benefits
Trip Delay/Interruption & COVID-19: Fully covered
Cost & Plans
Prices are normally around $100–$180 for the two weeks.
Plans vary based on the destination, duration, and age.
How to Get It?
Requires a purchase prior to leaving the United States.
It is all digital purchases on the website and the mobile app.
No chance to buy when you arrive in Nepal.
Travel Insurance Provider 3: Allianz Global Assistance
Travelers can rely on the brand name Allianz for their trips around the world without any major problems. However, when it comes to high altitudes and extreme activities, the coverage might not be enough, and thus, there will be a necessity for some specific plans.
Altitude Limit: Usually, the highest permissible altitude is 4,000 meters — verify policy language carefully
Helicopter Rescue: Generally, it is provided, but there may be some terms and conditions, or it can be restricted
Adventure Activities: If you do not opt for the Adventure Sports Rider, then the activities will be excluded from the basic plans
Trip Cancellation, Interruption, and COVID: Most typical mid-to-premium plans cover this
Cost & Plans
Typical price: $120–$170 for two weeks
There are annual plans for multiple trips that suit well with frequent travelers.
How to Get It?
It is a necessity to buy it from the place of your departure airport, which should be either in the U.S.
Travel Insurance Provider 4: World Nomads
Headquarters & Location Information
Registered in: Sydney, Australia
Going to: U.S., Canada, UK, EU, etc.
Website: https://www.worldnomads.com
Coverage Details
World Nomads focuses on travelers who engage in more adventurous trips, and their coverage is great for Nepal trekking.
Altitude: up to 6,000 meters (Explorer Plan only)
Heli Evacs: Fully covered in both options
Adventure Sports: More than 200+ activities covered - including trekking, climbing, rafting etc.
Gear Protection: Up to $3,000 gear loss/stolen (Explorer plan)
Trip Interruption/Medical: Included (including related to COVID-19)
Cost & Plans
Explorer Plan (full coverage): ~$150-180 for 2 week trip.
Standard Plan: ~$110 with fewer adventure activities.
How to get it?
Yes, it can be purchased after arriving in Nepal
Can buy online anywhere; the policy is active immediately after you buy it.
Mobile claims, multilingual support, 24/7 assistance.
Which is the recommended Travel Insurance For UK Residents?
Big Cat Travel Insurance is the name of a trading operation of Flynow.com Ltd. The registered office address for BIG CAT LIMITED is Office 17, The Atkins Building, Lower Bond Street, Hinckley, England, LE10 1QU. Their London office is also at 118 Cricklewood Lane, London, NW2 2DP.
Coverage Details
The insurance really fits the needs of the people who travel for adventures, backpackers, gap year students, and people who go for work holidays.
Residents of the UK and EEA are eligible (with the exception of some areas, such as Switzerland, Russia, Belarus, Montenegro, and Ukraine).
The policies allow customers to choose between Single Trip, One Way, and Annual Multi-Trip. With trip length limits (Standard: 30 days; Premier: 70 days).
Rest assured, you will be covered worldwide (excluding Europe, Australia & New Zealand, and worldwide with or without North America & Mexico).
Also included are medical emergencies, luggage, clothing, and personal effects up to £2,000, while gadgets and valuables are up to £1,000.
It also opens the door wide for you to engage and participate in adventurous activities and winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, cat skiing, and snowmobiling.
Furthermore, should the situation outside your control cause a delay in your journey, your trip will be extended free of charge for up to 31 days (hijack coverage up to 12 months).
There is no cooling-off period, and no money will be refunded if the trip has already started.
There is medical emergency assistance that can be reached via phone 24 hours a day.
How to Get It?
To select and purchase a policy, all you need to do is visit the Big Cat Travel Insurance website.
Select the type of policy in accordance with your travel (Single Trip, One Way or Annual Multi-Trip).
You will need to have a permanent UK or EEA resident address in order to purchase a policy.
You need to purchase a policy you leave if you intend to purchase a Multi-Trip policy and can purchase a Single Trip or Way policy once you have arrived abroad, but it will be limited.
If you need assistance with customer services or an extension of your policy, you can contact them by calling +44 (0)333 003 3161 or using the online contact form. Customer service hours are Monday - Friday: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm (excludes bank Holidays).
You must submit all claims using the Claims Portal; this is now submitted online.
True Traveller is an insurance service run by Inter Partner Assistance S.A., an AXA Group member - an international insurance company also connected to the world's largest insurance companies' global network.
What are the coverage details?
Medical and emergency coverage, including hospital bills, doctors, and emergency medical evacuation.
The standard coverage has 92 activities, including bungee jumping, horse riding, and diving, up to 18m. Non-manual work (bar/restaurant work) is included for working holidays.
If you want more protection, you can add one of three Adventure, Extreme or Ultimate Activity Packs, including rock climbing and trekking up unlimited altitudes.
Providing single trip Cover, annual multi trips and a cheap cover for backpackers.
Single trip policies: 3 levels - True Value, True Traveller, and Traveller Plus. Each level provides greater medical and cancellation coverage, respectively.
Annual multi-trip policies: True Traveller (unlimited trips up to 30 days) and Traveller Plus (unlimited trips up to 70 days).
How to Get It?
Go to the True Traveller website and complete the immediate cover application form.
On their website get a quote for adventure travel insurance for single trips, annual multi-trips, and backpacker cover.
In the UK, call 0333 999 3140, and if you are abroad, call +44 333 999 3140.
Recommended Nepal Trekking Insurance For South Africa Trekkers
SafetyWing
SafetyWing is good for travelers who are on the road for a long time and digital nomads who prefer insurance with flexible conditions and low prices from all over the world. Besides, it also provides medical and travel emergency plans that are suitable for hiking. Trekking coverage, however, may be necessary if you want to get certain add-ons.
Headquarters & Location
SafetyWing is located in Oslo, Norway, but it also has an online presence all over the world to be able to reach visitors from everywhere.
Coverage Details
Health coverage for both sickness and accidents
Travel emergency coverage, which includes trip cancellation and lost baggage situations
Height of coverage: 4,500 meters (only for moderate trekking)
Flexible monthly payment plans, perfect for long vacations
Inclusion in coverage of incidents related to COVID-19
Depending on the case, extra parts for trekking and adventure may be necessary.
How to Get It?
Go to the website safetywing.com
Pick a plan (Nomad Insurance or Remote Health)
Be precise with your travel dates and destinations
Decide if you want to add the coverage of trekking and adventure
Complete the purchase of the policy instantly online
Customer support via website and email.
Contact Information
Website: safetywing.com.
Customer support: Access through live chat and/or email (no phone number is publicly available).
Global Rescue – Specialized Emergency Evacuation and Field Rescue.
Global Rescue is not actually an insurance provider but a membership-based emergency evacuation and field rescue service for high-risk treks in the Himalayas. This provider would typically be paired with a primary insurance policy for the best coverage.
Headquarters / Location
Global Rescue is based in Boston, Massachusetts USA, with global operations, 24/7/365 digital or event-based support, based out of DIRECT OPERATION CENTERS.
Coverage
Access to medical and security advisory services 24/7/365
Emergency field rescue from the point of injury/illness to the applicable hospital of your choice, anywhere in the world, including heli-rescue from high altitude
Emergency medical evacuation to any hospital in the world of your choice
Emergency security evacuation due to natural disasters, acts of terrorism, civil unrest
No limitations on activities, including high-altitude trekking close to or above 6,000 m
Memberships available: single-trip, annual and family
Emergency evacuation costs can exceed 100,000 dollars without a membership
An add-on we recommended is IMG Signature Travel Insurance for medical and trip recovery
How do we get it?
Go to globalrescue.com
Select the type of membership (single-trip, annual, family)
Submit travel itineraries and personal detail
Complete purchasing membership online or through a travel agent partner
Pair a Global Rescue membership with a primary travel insurance policy for the best coverage
Which is the Recommended Travel Insurance for the European Union?
Recommendation 1: Allianz Global Assistance
Head Office and Location
Allianz Global Assistance is a member of Allianz SE, a multinational financial services company founded in Germany with its main place of business in Munich, Germany. The address of the main office is Königinstrasse 28, 80802 Munich, Germany. Allianz not only has a main office, but it also has a huge number of nationwide and international offices and subsidiaries; Allianz Global Assistance has the head office in Canada at 700 Jamieson Parkway, Cambridge, ON, Canada.
Coverage Information
Allianz Global Assistance provides comprehensive travel insurance plans, which often include coverage for medical emergencies (that meet the Schengen Tourist minimum of €30,000 ), trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost baggage, and travel delays. Most of their policies include coverage for a broad category of travel risks and can be customized for the traveler's needs.
Allianz insurance is an expected requirement for Schengen visa applications because it meets the qualifying parameters specified in the visa.
How to Purchase It?
Allianz Global Assistance insurance can be obtained for travelers in their countries through either the company website or through pre-approved licensed agents, brokers, or travel organizations. The company has a user-friendly website to select the travelers insurance products and customize them, by duration of trip, destination, and type of coverage.
Contact Details
Customers can contact either their own office or the regional or head office if they have any inquiries to ask AI. For instance, the toll-free numbers for the Canadian office are 1-800-461-1079 and 1-519-742-2800, while the headquarters in Germany is +49 89 3800 0. Further information is on Allianz's website, where travelers can also access all local offices worldwide while traveling abroad.
International Travel Insurance for Nepal Trekking: For Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Thailand
Allianz Travel Insurance
Headquarters and Location
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited is located in Sydney, Australia; it is a subsidiary of the global Allianz Group (one of the largest insurers in the world), which provides passenger travel insurance features across the world, including travel insurance for adventurous activities, including trekking.
Coverage Features
Medical and hospital expenses, including emergency evacuation and the associated repatriation.
Coverage for high altitude trekking, elevations up to the prescribed altitude limits (Inquire with Allianz about your altitude limits).
Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Delay Coverage.
Lost, stolen and damaged baggage and personal property coverage.
24/7 emergency assistance and support services.
Have the options to cover adventurous activities, including trekking, hiking and climbing.
Where Is It Obtained?
Simply go to the Allianz Australia website (or authorized travel insurance brokers).
All you have to do is complete the online quote, and choose your insurance that includes trekking and adventure activities in Nepal.
Once you pay online, you will receive your digital policy to download in your email immediately.
You need to make it clear what your trekking plans are, including altitude, how long you are trekking etc., to confirm you are covered.
Contact Details:
Allianz Australia is available with their customer service phone line and through the forms on their website. They offer 24/7 emergency assistance for travelers and those who have been stranded overseas.
World Nomads Travel Insurance
Headquarters & Location: World Nomads is an Australian-based international travel insurance provider having a worldwide network and specially designed coverage for adventure seekers.
Coverage Details:
It is necessary to point out that the policy covers over 150 adventure sports, such as trekking, hiking, and climbing.
The policy coverage is extended to trekking in Nepal, which includes the Everest Base Camp as well as other high-altitude treks.
Medical and evacuation coverage in case of an emergency is provided, which also includes helicopter rescue.
Besides that, the policy also covers trip cancellation, lost or stolen property, and travel interruptions.
Travel insurance policies can be bought as well as claims can be filed during a journey.
With specific plans (Level 3 and Level 4), coverage up to altitudes of about 6000 meters is provided.
Support and assistance at any time in case of emergencies.
How to Get It?
Go to the website of the World Nomads. Each country has its own (e.g., worldnomads.com.au for Australia).
Fill out an online form to get a quote for your travel details and activities.
Buy the policy on the internet at any time, whether it is before departure or even while on a trip.
Have your digital policy and emergency contacts copy within reach always.
Contact Information: World Nomads is reachable all around the world 24/7 in case of emergencies. Contact can be made via their website, email, or phone numbers provided upon policy purchase. They are on your side not only in the process of making a claim but also in case of an emergency during trekking in Nepal.
Which travel insurance is best for Nepal trekking for Indian citizens?
Travel Insirance For Nepal Trek For Indian Trekkers
Bajaj Allianz
Headquarters Office & Address: Bajaj Allianz General Insurance has their base in Pune, Maharashtra, and enjoy a good national presence and developed a functionalityto enable the servicing of customers across India, regardless of travel distance (ie.: trekking in Nepal).
Coverage features: Medical coverage for accidental injuries sustained while trekking Emergency assistance for evacuation and repatriation Trip cancellations/interruption coverage Lost passport & luggage and global service while traveling (24-hours / 7 days).
How to purchase insurance?
Visit the Bajaj Allianz General Insurance’ website, choose 'Travel Insurance' and enter trip details, such as trip in question, travel duration, and number of travelers. You can now choose from any of Bajaj Allianz’ travel Insurance options available; there is likely at least one to fit, hopefully including coverage for adventure sports (or trekking in your specific case)! Fill it out and purchase online.
Research information: If you require assistance from Canada, Bajaj Allianz 24/7 toll free number is 1800-209-5858, or they can be contacted for international phone calls when in India at +91-20-30305858. Additional information can be found at their website at www.bajajallianz.com, and provides email contact support, and offers online chat opportunities for informal inquiries.
ICICI Lombard
Headquarters/Base
ICICI Lombard is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. They are one of India's largest private sector general insurance companies. ICICI Lombard has impressive digital servicing capacity, access to many hospitals around the world, and good confidence they would assist in covering travels to Nepal.
Coverage Items:
Hospitalization for any illness or injury sustained while trekking.
Medical evacuation and repatriation.
Personal accident coverage.
Coverage for lost documents and baggage.
Plans can be tailored to include coverage for sports/adventure sports.
How to get it?
www.icicilombard.com - Select Travel Insurance and enter your destination (Nepal) and travel dates.
They have a straightforward process; you will select a plan that includes adventure sports coverage if you are planning on trekking.
You must fill in all of your travel details, and then you can pay for it online.
Contact Information:
They have a 24-hour call center at 1800-2666 & for international calls, +91-22-61706699. Email Customer Support at: [email protected].
HDFC Ergo
Location
HDFC Ergo General Insurance is located in Mumbai, and is a partnership between HDFC Ltd. and ERGO International AG two very well known travel insurance companies that offer incredibly broad coverage - they cover altitude and adventure sports.
HDFC Ergo covers:
Emergency medical expenses and hospital costs.
Accidental death and permanent disability.
Trekking coverage (for a fee) from adventure sports.
Benefits for trip curtailment and delay.
Cover for loss of baggage and passport.
How do you buy it?
Head to www.hdfcergo.com.
Under "Travel Insurance" you will select Nepal for your destination.
Select the best plan with the adventure activities coverage.
Fill in the required details to buy your policy online.
Contact:
You can call their 24x7 numbers 022-6234-6234 and 0120-6234-6234. You can also email them for travel insurance (other than claims) inquiries at [email protected].
Reliance General Insurance
Company and Address:
Reliance General Insurance is based in Mumbai, part of Reliance Group. Reliance will work flexible travel insurance plans for international travel including a range of treks and other adventure sports.
Coverage:
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation.
Accidental death and dismemberment.
Lost checked luggage or passport.
Optional adventure sports rider including trekking.
Trip cancellation or curtailment coverage.
How to get it?
Go to www.reliancegeneral.co.in
select "Travel insurance" and enter where you are traveling to and when;
select one of their packages that included an adventure or sport;
fill in all the details and pay online;
Contact Information:
You can contact Reliance General Insurance at 1800-3009-3009 or [email protected]. Reliance also provides WhatsApp support and live online chat.
TATA AIG
Main office & location:
TATA AIG General Insurance Company is a joint venture between TATA Group and American International Group (AIG). They are headquartered in Mumbai, and provide a selection of unique travel insurance for example trekking and adventure travel in Nepal.
Coverage for TATA AIG includes
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation.
Adventure sports (trekking is covered but normally with a rider for hazardous sports).
Trip delay lost baggage (or passport).
Personal Liability and accident coverage.
Some covid-19 related coverage (optional).
How to get?
Head to the website www.tataaig.com
Select "Travel Insurance" and enter travel details for Nepal.
Select your plan that covers adventure sports.
Enter your details and pay online.
Contact:
Toll free 1800-266-7780. If you are calling from abroad you can email [email protected]. They have a chatbot on their website if you need quicker assistance.
ASC360
Corporate Headquarters, location and details:
ASC360 is an adventure/ travel insurer with unique coverage for trekking in the Himalayas, specifically the Himalayan region of Nepal, with rapid issues and custom packages for trekking and mountaineering activity.
Coverage:
Actively full coverage for trekking to 6,000 meters.
Rescue & evacuation, with helicopter evacuation.
Accidental injury, sickness and hospitalization.
Evacuation from a summit by air ambulance should it be needed.
Coverage for high-risk sports, with trekking specific addon with great detail, including cover of risks pertaining to commercial adventure service.
How do I get it?
Go to www.asc360.com
Choose a trekking destination, namely Nepal and select the level of altitude.
Having selected a destination and faced the system thinking that you are trekking, do not immediately consider the policy details and answer traveler particulars.
Complete payment online & receive an instant e-policy.
Contact:
ASC360 is a digital-first service provided through their website, with an e-mail address: [email protected]. It is, in most parts, a digital platform for the adventure travel marketplace internationally and Indian experience seeking reliable immediate coverage for near high-risk coverage globally.
Cost of Travel Insurance for Trekking in Nepal as per the Elevation Coverage
Elevation Covered
Daily Cost Range
Weekly Cost Estimate
Monthly Cost Estimate
Typical Treks Covered
Notes
Up to 2000m
$2 - $5
$15 - $35
$50 - $80
Kathmandu Valley hikes, lowland treks
Slight increase (~5%-15%), inexpensive protection for mild altitude sickness
Everest Three Passes, Gokyo Ri, Mardi Himal, Peak climbing expeditions
Severe increase (50%-100%+), life-threatening risk, costly specialized rescue.
Cost Up to 2000m Coverage
This altitude is not very high, so you will see it encompasses a variety of beginner-friendly and lower-altitude trekking routes, such as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or the Kathmandu Valley hikes. Insurance that only covers treks up to 2000 m is, of course, the cheapest due to the relatively low risks of altitude sickness that are presented at these lower trekking altitudes.
If you are doing a short trek of 7 to 10 days, the insurance could cost between $30 to $50, depending on the provider and some potential benefits. The treks that are over 3 weeks to a month tend to have insurance costs likely to be around $70 to $100.
Trekkers on low-altitude treks also have the opportunity to find travel related topics that cover regular medical, emergency evacuation, and cancellation and does not usually include the higher premium of extended high altitude or helicopter evacuation.
Cost Up to 3000 m Coverage
Once you get into moderate altitude trekking below 3000 meters, the cost of insurance will rise, and this includes treks such as the Langtang Valley Trek or lower sections of the Everest base camp trek.
The good news is that treks between 2000 - 3000 m will cost more for insurance, but the policies will usually have additional medical and evacuation benefits that cover altitude sickness-related events. Most range between $50 and $80 for a small group trekking for 7 -14 days.
If you are a trekker staying at least 3-4 weeks, expect to pay for insurance that may range between $90 to $130, while a longer 3 - 4 week monthly insurance may average around $150, which includes treks that may require coverage up to 3000m and likely has slopes of moderate, moderate to high altitude treks that may reasonable have a risk for altitude sickness and managed without special high altitude rescue services.
Cost Up to 4000 m Coverage
Increasing the height up to 4000 meters tremendously escalates the risk level and therefore the costs (insurance). The most commonly trekked routes that would trek through this height are: Annapurna Base Camp Trek, upper reaches of Everest base camp, the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
At this height the risk of altitude sickness is higher and you are much more likely to need an emergency helicopter evacuation or a mountain rescue (specialized) than at lower elevations. This could be reflected in insurance prices: For treks that last for 7 to 14 days you can expect to pay around $80.00 to $120.00. For longer treks from 3 to 5 weeks, you could be looking at up to $130.00 to $200.00. For an extended expedition, the monthly insurance may look closer to $200.00 to $300.00.
Coverage generally includes altitude sickness treatment, helicopter evacuation, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, and as it concerns safety for trekkers at these elevations, any other coverage would also be necessary.
Cost Up To 5000 m Coverage
The trekking elevations of approximately 5000 meters (Everest Three Passes Trek, Gokyo Ri, or high elevation mountain expeditions with climbing peaks such as Island Peak or Mera Peak) would come with the most expensive travel insurance premiums since it is high risk for travel at those heights.
Travel insurance plans that are high elevation specific and cover the trekking altitude would be more specialized from the coverage, and would provide full coverage for altitude sickness, high altitude rescues, helicopter evacuations, possibly mountaineering accidents. For low elevation treks or treks of combined duration 7-14 days, the premiums for short approx. 7 day treks would likely range between $120-$200.
For a trek or expedition of duration 1 month or more, costs could range from $250-$400+, depending on insurance company, and what the plan may cover, (for example costs of extended hospital stay or complicated evacuations). It is important for trekkers to cover themselves with a high-altitude travels policy since trekking usually takes place where medical facilities are limited, and you will likely incur additional costs for a rescue.
Cost Up To 6000 m Coverage
Insurance that covers activities above 6000m is specific insurance for ultra-high altitude treks and/or climbs. For example, climbing Island Peak (6189m), Mera Peak (6461m), or more technical climbs/treks like Baruntse or Ama Dablam Base Camp.
Cost: Insurance with the ultra and extreme category of insurance usually costs the most, as it is due to the risk, high altitude sickness, technical climbing falls, and potentially very expensive helicopter rescues. Usually costs somewhere in the range of $15 to $30+, depending on the insurance company and level of coverage. So if you purchased a total of a 3 week insurance period you can expect about $315 to $630, and for an entire month it can be $450 to $900+.
Duration: Trekkers and climbers usually buy insurance for anywhere from 3 weeks and up to 2 months of insurance, as these climbs as they will often enough be undertaken in large blocks of extra time for acclimatization and climbing.
What Should Travel Insurance for Nepal Trekking Cover?
High Altitude Coverage
Anywhere you trek in Nepal, there will be a high-altitude component, which increases the risk of altitude sickness and other health-related issues. Any travel insurance for trekking in Nepal should have high altitude coverage for altitude sickness medical expenses due to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Usually, high-altitude insurance will cover helicopter medical evacuation to a lower altitude or the nearest medical facility. Knowing the costs of helicopter evacuations, this insurance can be life-saving in case of extreme altitude sickness, which is why you should look for it and have it.
Accident Insurance
Falls and accidents appear to be common risks while trekking or hiking due to rugged trails, steep terrain, the potential of an adverse change of climate and weather, and the unpredictability of any trek. Travel insurance should provide coverage for injuries sustained in accidents and falls while trekking. If you had to go to the hospital for injuries sustained in a fall that required hospital stay, surgery, rehabilitation, or items related to the incident, they should be covered by insurance.
Good comprehensive accident coverage gives trekkers peace of mind, knowing they can have proper and adequate care should they incur an injury during a trek.
Health Conditions
When trekking, trekkers can experience various health issues and illnesses other than altitude-related diseases such as infections, food poisoning, and the common cold, especially when trekking in remote locations. Travel insurance would cover medical treatment for sickness sustained after commencing trekking, consultations, medications, or hospital stays if necessary.
The insurance policy should cover both treatment in Nepal and also should evacuate the trekkers to the nearest medically appropriate facility, should the need arise.
Theft, Loss, or Damage to Personal Property
When trekking, it is common to have valuable personal items to carry, which could include a camera, trekking gear, passports, and money/cash. Although travelinsurance cannot ultimately prevent theft, loss, or damage to personal items, it can financially assist in replacement, repair, and/or reimbursement.
Travel insurance should cover theft and loss of personal items in order to assist in replacing the stolen/lost items, and possibly reimbursement for damage to your personal items from weather or an accident, so that a trekker does not find themself in dire straits without the appropriate gear.
Lost Baggage Coverage
Travel delays due to flights or lost luggage can add extra frustration & disruption to trekking. Travel insurance will provide coverage for baggage delays to help replace and relieve the cost of any purchased items until the original baggage arrives.
This is important travel insurance coverage for any trekker, especially trekkers that depend on certain gear/clothing in order to survive cold temperatures or high-altitude weather. Travel insurance is always worth the cost and is important to have for smooth trekking.
What Is Not Covered in Most Trekking Travel Insurance?
Existing Medical Conditions
The majority of trekking insurance policies do not include existing medical conditions unless you declare your medical situation and if accepted by the insurance company. If you have or have an ongoing medical condition or health concern, such as asthma, heart issues, or diabetes, and do not declare this when you apply, the relevant medical claims could remain unpaid.
Injuries Related to Alcohol or Drugs
If you are injured while drinking alcohol or while under the influence of illegal drugs, then it would be reasonable to assume that your insurance claim would be denied as intoxication or use of illegal drugs generally reflects an activity that is high risk, preventable, and avoidable.
Non-disclosed High-risk Activities
Trekking, at times, could involve high-risk sports or adventure activities that some trekkers might do during the time they are trekking, such as rock climbing, zip-lining, and paragliding. If those activities are undeclared or not covered in your base insurance policy, then it is unlikely any injury and related claims would be covered.
Adventure Add-Ons Not Included
It is possible that standard trekking insurance does not automatically provide coverage for your trekking under either the extreme or the advanced trekking category. When you trek over a certain altitude (e.g., 4,000m) or have begun to trek in a glacier zone, you may need to purchase an adventure or high-altitude add-on. If you don't pay for the add-on, you are not covered for the events that occurred during these portions of your trip.
Pregnancy
Many travel insurance providers will not cover any pregnancy-related trekking claims. In general, travel insurance providers will not cover trekking-related claims from 24-28 weeks pregnancy and beyond.
It is extremely unlikely that travel insurance providers will cover complications of labor while trekking, particularly premature labor unless they were actually in the delivery room or had some sort of maternity/childbirth cover.
How High Can Trekkers Trek in Nepal with Travel Insurance?
Most trek travel insurance for Nepal will generally cover trek travel to around 5,500 - 6,000 meters (18,000 - 19,700 feet). In most travel insurance policies, this will generally cover around 6,000 meters, but beyond this altitude for climbing Island Peak or Mera Peak or trekking to Everest Base Camp and beyond, you are probably going to need some sort of specialized travel insurance or high altitude travel insurance.
Most standard travel insurance policies will cover you up to around 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) which will cover the popular trekking areas of Annapurna and Langtang region.
However, generally, if you are trekking at the high altitude such as Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) and the Annapurna Circuit (Maximum height of 5,416 meters), then there is a good possibility that you are going to be getting specialized travel insurance, or a trekking or adventure sports add-on.
Some insurance policies will cover you up to 6000 meters (19685 feet), covering treks like the Manaslu Circuit and some areas of the Dolpo region. However, as soon as you are trekking above this altitude, many insurance may not cover you or require a completely separate high-altitude mountaineering policy.
You will definitely want to check what your specific altitude limits are with your insurance as many policies differ in altitude limits. For some travel insurance policies there could be unlimited cover up to 4500 metres (14764 feet), the exact limit could be anything. For others there could be lower limits without any add-on. There are several insures that will require extra cover for any trekking above 3000 metres (9843 feet).
If you exceed a policies altitude threshold, you may be denied for any injuries or illnesses (including altitude sickness) and evacuations including: For example:
Helicopter evacuations, which can cost over $5000 - $10,000 USD
Hospital treatment that is not covered
Trip interruption/cancellation claims denied if associated with altitude aspects.
Tips to Choose the Best Travel Insurance for Your Treks in Nepal
Check altitude coverage: You want to make sure that the policy makes provision for trekking in high altitude as in trekking in Nepal (up to preferably 6000 meters), so it included the routes for the very popular Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit.
Check for emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue coverage: Emergency evacuation coverage, and helicopter rescue coverage are important in remote areas of the Himalayas.
Check for medical coverage: The expected medical coverage would include medical emergency treatment for altitude sickness, any injuries sustained on the trek, and any sickness that is sustained on the trek.
Check trip cancellation and travel delay, trip interruption protection: The type of insurance can include some form of overnight cancellation coverage or trip interruption coverage and some limited insurance for delayed or lost baggage, all protecting their investment and their personal items.
Check for options of flexibility and customization: Some providers do have options you can modify with adventure additions where you build a customized plan specific personally to your trekking and budget needs.
Check claim history and reputation of provider and support: Insurance providers such as World Nomads, Allianz, or SafetyWing gives you peace of mind of a good reputation of no claims hassle, complete 247 support and great customer service
Verifying Coverage for Pre-existing Medical Conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is best to understand how they treat pre-existing conditions in their policy, particularly for health issues that may affect high-altitude trekking (e.g., cardiac or respiratory conditions).
Think about Regional Options: Some insurers specialize in covering specific nationalities. Depending on your nationality, this may really limit options for you (e.g., Reliance and TATA AIG travel medical insurance for Indian travelers, Allianz for European travelers).
Read the exclusions: If you do not understand or agree with some of the exclusions, how they define activities (trekking versus mountaineering), altitude limits, or if they have plans for rescue, you may have surprises during your trek.
What Documents are Required?
For Purchasing Travel Insurance
Generally, the following documents will be required to obtain travel insurance for your trek:
Copy of Passport Insurers will always require you to provide a clear copy of your current valid passport to confirm your identity and travel information.
Travel Itinerary Insurance companies will expect you to provide a comprehensive and detailed itinerary of your trip including flight details; also provide confirmed hotels and tours / activities to give them a clear indication of the particulars of your trip length and what activities are involved.
Proof of Residency For proof of residency, the insurers will require either a recent utility bill or bank statement to confirm your current residence.
Health Declaration You will need to declare any pre-existing medical conditions in your health Declaration; some insurers require a medical certificate to be produced by your doctor where you have a history of medical complaints.
Payment Details Your payment details will also be required by the insurers, including what form of payment you will be making, if it is a credit card or bank transfer, in paying for the Insurance premium.
Before Starting the Trek (Related to Travel Insurance)
Before you begin on your trek, please remember to do the following in relation to travel insurance:
Travel Insurance Certificate: You may want to send a copy to your trekking provider or include the details in your trekker emergency contact information.
Emergency Contact Numbers. Please keep a copy of your travel policy, including your emergency contact numbers, with you on your trip.
Insurance Policy Coverage Summary. Be aware of and understand any insurance policy coverage, limits, amounts covered and requirements. It is sensible to have verified that your insurance policy covers helicopter evacuation and high-altitude trekking (elevation greater than 6,000 meters).
Copies of Documents. Take a set of copies and digital records of your documents and proof of insurance.
Medical Certificate. Having a medical examination and certificate will show your fitness to attempt high-altitude climbing.
Hailing from the scenic expanse of Chitwan in Parsa, nestled adjacent to the enchanting Chitwan National Park, Mr. Rohit Subedi graces Adventure Altitude Treks as a seasoned Senior Accountant. Since his induction in 2018, immediately following the attainment of his master's degree, Rohit's journey has been marked by excellence. Elevating his role, our company entrusted him with the mantle of Tour Coordinator, specializing in crafting unparalleled journeys across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.
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