Why is Travel Insurance Essential?

Trekking and climbing in Nepal involve high altitudes, remote trails, and unpredictable weather conditions. Travel insurance is mandatory for most trekking and climbing expeditions, as it provides financial protection in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unexpected accidents.

Key Coverage Areas to Look For

1. High-Altitude Medical Coverage & Emergency Evacuation

✔ Coverage up to 6,000m+ altitude (for Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Mera Peak)
✔ Emergency helicopter evacuation (costs range from $3,000 to $5,000)
✔ Hospitalization & medical expenses in Nepal or evacuation to home country
✔ Coverage for acute mountain sickness (AMS), frostbite, and other altitude-related illnesses

2. Trip Cancellation & Interruption

✔ Refunds for unexpected trip cancellations due to illness, personal emergencies, or natural disasters
✔ Compensation for flight delays, lost baggage, or missed connections

3. Theft & Loss Protection

✔ Covers stolen or lost luggage, passports, and trekking gear
✔ Compensation for damaged or lost electronics (cameras, phones, laptops)

4. Adventure Activities Coverage

✔ Trekking, peak climbing, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, and other adventure sports
✔ Some policies exclude climbing above 6,000m, so check before purchasing

Recommended Travel Insurance Companies

Several international insurance providers offer specialized high-altitude trekking and climbing coverage.

For International Travelers:

• World Nomads – Best for adventure travel, including trekking & climbing
• Allianz Travel Insurance – Covers emergency medical expenses & trip interruptions
• InsureMyTrip – Comparison tool to find the best insurance for Nepal
• Global Rescue – Specialized in helicopter evacuation & emergency response

For Indian Travelers:

• TATA AIG – Covers medical emergencies & baggage loss
• Bajaj Allianz – Provides trekking coverage with medical evacuation
• ICICI Lombard – Covers adventure sports and trip cancellations

Pro Tip: Always read the fine print and ensure your policy covers helicopter evacuation above 5,000m if you’re hiking or climbing in Nepal.

Cost of Travel Insurance for Nepal

The cost varies based on duration, coverage, and altitude:
✅ Basic Trekking Insurance (up to 4,000m) → $50–$100 for a 2-week trip
✅ High-Altitude Trekking Insurance (4,000m–6,000m) → $100–$200
✅ Climbing Insurance (Above 6,000m) → $200+ (for peaks like Mera Peak, Island Peak, or Lobuche)

What to Do in an Emergency?

Contact your insurance provider – Inform them about your situation immediately.
Call a local rescue service – Trekking agencies in Nepal coordinate helicopter evacuations.
Get medical assistance – Visit the nearest health post or hospital for treatment.
Keep all receipts & reports – You’ll need them to file an insurance claim later.