Quick Answer: While travel insurance for trekking in Nepal is not a strict government law, it is strongly required by most trekking agencies, helicopter rescue operators, and practically essential for anyone venturing into the Himalayas. Without valid insurance, you may face permit issues, be denied rescue services, or face crippling medical bills exceeding $15,000 for a single helicopter evacuation.
Introduction: Understanding Nepal Trekking Insurance Requirements
There's significant confusion among trekkers about whether travel insurance for trekking in Nepal is legally mandatory. Let's clarify this important distinction upfront.
The reality is nuanced:
- Travel insurance is not mandated by Nepali government law as a strict legal requirement
- However, it is strongly required by most trekking agencies as a booking condition
- Helicopter rescue companies typically require proof of insurance before dispatching aircraft
- Many permit checkpoints now request insurance documentation
- Restricted areas like Manaslu and Upper Mustang practically require comprehensive coverage
The bottom line: while you technically won't be arrested for trekking without insurance, operating without coverage in Nepal's remote Himalayan terrain is both financially reckless and increasingly impractical.
Why this guide matters:
- 500+ helicopter evacuations occur annually in Nepal's trekking regions
- Average rescue cost without insurance: $10,000-$15,000
- Altitude sickness affects approximately 1 in 3 trekkers above 4,000m
- Medical evacuation from Everest region can exceed $20,000
This comprehensive guide helps you understand what coverage you actually need, compare the best travel insurance for trekking in Nepal, and make an informed decision that protects both your health and finances.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Trekking in Nepal? (2026 Update)
The Honest Answer
No, travel insurance is not legally mandated by the Government of Nepal. However, calling it "optional" would be misleading and potentially dangerous advice.
Here's what you need to understand:
What IS required by regulation:
- Valid passport and Nepal visa
- Appropriate trekking permits (TIMS, ACAP, restricted area permits)
- Licensed guide for solo foreign trekkers (since April 2023)
What is strongly required in practice:
- Most reputable trekking agencies require insurance as a booking condition
- Helicopter rescue operators typically verify insurance before dispatch
- Some permit offices and checkpoints request insurance documentation
- Restricted area permits (Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo) practically necessitate coverage
Agency and Rescue Provider Requirements
Trekking Agency Policies:
Most professional trekking agencies, including those registered with TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal), include insurance verification in their booking process. This isn't government regulation—it's industry standard practice driven by:
- Liability concerns for agencies
- Past incidents of unpaid rescue bills
- Client safety and protection
- Professional standards
Helicopter Rescue Reality:
This is where insurance becomes practically essential. When a trekker needs emergency evacuation:
- Rescue companies often verify insurance before dispatching
- Without coverage, you may need to arrange upfront payment ($10,000-$20,000)
- Delays in arranging payment can be life-threatening at altitude
- Some rescue operators have refused dispatch without insurance confirmation
Checkpoint Verification:
While not universal, some checkpoints—particularly in popular regions like Everest and Annapurna—have begun requesting insurance documentation alongside permits. This practice varies by location and season.
Restricted Area Considerations
For treks requiring special permits, insurance becomes even more critical:
Manaslu Circuit Trek:
- Remote location with limited communication
- Expensive evacuations due to isolation
- Agencies strongly require comprehensive coverage
Upper Mustang Trek:
- Restricted area with special permit requirements
- Limited medical facilities
- High evacuation costs
Dolpo Region:
- Extremely remote terrain
- Very expensive rescue operations
- Insurance practically essential
Important Disclaimer: Requirements may vary by trekking route, season, and specific agency. Always confirm current requirements with your trekking operator before departure.
Why Travel Insurance Is Essential for Trekking in Nepal
Even if insurance isn't legally mandatory, the practical reasons for purchasing international travel insurance for trekking in Nepal are compelling.
Helicopter Evacuation Costs
The most significant financial risk you face trekking in Nepal is emergency evacuation. Here are real costs without insurance:
Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu
- Approximate cost: $8,000-$15,000
Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La) to Pokhara
- Approximate cost: $5,000-$10,000
Manaslu Circuit to Kathmandu
- Approximate cost: $10,000-$18,000
Langtang Valley to Kathmandu
- Approximate cost: $4,000-$8,000
Upper Mustang to Kathmandu
- Approximate cost: $8,000-$12,000
These costs can double if weather delays require multiple flight attempts or if you need medical personnel on board.
Altitude Sickness Risks
High-altitude illness is the leading cause of evacuation in Nepal's trekking regions:
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS):
- Affects 25-50% of trekkers above 4,000m
- Symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness
- Usually manageable with descent and rest
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE):
- Fluid accumulation in lungs
- Can be fatal within hours if untreated
- Requires immediate descent and medical attention
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE):
- Swelling of brain tissue
- Life-threatening emergency
- Requires immediate evacuation
Standard travel insurance often excludes altitude-related conditions. Specialized trekking insurance up to 6000m is essential for high-altitude routes.
Remote Terrain Realities
Nepal's trekking regions present unique challenges:
- Limited medical facilities: Basic health posts exist, but serious conditions require evacuation to Kathmandu
- Communication gaps: Cell service is unreliable or nonexistent in many areas
- Weather dependence: Rescue helicopters cannot fly in poor visibility or high winds
- Access limitations: Some areas only accessible by helicopter in emergencies
Real Scenario Examples
Scenario 1: Altitude Sickness on Everest Base Camp Trek
A trekker develops severe headache and confusion at Gorak Shep (5,164m). Diagnosis: early HACE. Helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu: $12,000. Hospital stay and treatment: $3,000. Total without insurance: $15,000.
Scenario 2: Ankle Injury on Annapurna Circuit
A trekker slips on wet stones near Thorong Phedi, breaking their ankle. Unable to walk, helicopter evacuation to Pokhara: $6,000. Medical treatment and surgery: $4,000. Total without insurance: $10,000.
Scenario 3: Respiratory Infection in Manaslu
A trekker develops severe bronchitis complicated by altitude. Ground evacuation impossible. Helicopter to Kathmandu: $15,000. Hospital treatment: $2,000. Total without insurance: $17,000.
What Travel Insurance Should Cover for Nepal Trekking
Not all travel insurance policies are suitable for Himalayan trekking. Here's what your best travel insurance for trekking in Nepal must include:
Emergency Evacuation Coverage
Minimum Recommended: $50,000
Ideal Coverage: $100,000+
This should specifically include:
- Helicopter rescue from remote locations
- Search and rescue operations
- Medical evacuation to appropriate facility
- Repatriation to home country if needed
- Multiple evacuation attempts if weather delays
High-Altitude Coverage
Critical requirement: Your policy must explicitly cover trekking at your maximum planned altitude.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Maximum altitude: 3,210m
- Minimum coverage needed: 3,500m
Langtang Valley Trek
- Maximum altitude: 3,800m
- Minimum coverage needed: 4,000m
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Maximum altitude: 4,130m
- Minimum coverage needed: 4,500m
Everest Base Camp Trek
- Maximum altitude: 5,364m
- Minimum coverage needed: 5,500m
Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La)
- Maximum altitude: 5,416m
- Minimum coverage needed: 5,500m
Three Passes Trek
- Maximum altitude: 5,535m
- Minimum coverage needed: 6,000m
Island Peak Climbing
- Maximum altitude: 6,189m
- Minimum coverage needed: 6,500m
Warning: Standard travel insurance typically covers only up to 2,000-3,000m. Always verify altitude limits before purchasing.
Medical Expenses Coverage
Minimum Recommended: $50,000
Ideal Coverage: $100,000+
Should include:
- Hospital admission and treatment
- Doctor consultations
- Prescription medications
- Diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood tests)
- Altitude sickness treatment
- Oxygen therapy
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Protects your investment if you cannot complete your trek due to:
- Illness or injury before departure
- Family emergencies
- Natural disasters
- Political unrest
- Weather-related cancellations
Additional Valuable Coverage
Equipment and Baggage:
- Lost or delayed baggage compensation
- Damaged trekking gear replacement
- Theft coverage
Trip Delay:
- Accommodation costs during delays
- Additional meal expenses
- Rebooking fees
24/7 Emergency Assistance:
- Emergency hotline access
- Coordination with rescue services
- Medical consultation by phone
Which Travel Insurance Is Best for Trekking in Nepal?
Choosing the best travel insurance for trekking depends on your specific trek, duration, and budget. Here's an honest comparison of popular options:
Nepal-Based Providers
Nepal Trekking Insurance (nepaltrekkinginsurance.com)
7-Day Trek Plan
- Duration: 7 days
- Altitude coverage: 5,500m
- Price: $95 USD
15-Day Trek Plan
- Duration: 15 days
- Altitude coverage: 5,500m
- Price: $105 USD
21-Day Trek Plan
- Duration: 21 days
- Altitude coverage: 5,500m
- Price: $120 USD
32-Day Trek Plan
- Duration: 32 days
- Altitude coverage: 5,500m
- Price: $135 USD
Advantages:
- Local presence in Nepal for faster coordination
- Cashless claims at partner hospitals
- Direct relationships with rescue operators
- 24/7 local emergency support
- Covers trekking, hiking, rafting, and more
Considerations:
- Maximum altitude 5,500m (insufficient for some expeditions)
- May need supplementary coverage for very high altitude
Best For: Most standard Nepal treks including EBC, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, Langtang
International Providers Comparison
World Nomads
- Altitude coverage: Up to 6,000m (Explorer plan)
- Evacuation limit: Up to $500,000
- Price range: $150-$300 for 2-3 weeks
- Best for: Adventure travelers wanting comprehensive coverage
- Advantages: Instant online purchase, covers many adventure activities
- Considerations: Claims process can be slower from Nepal
IMG Global
- Altitude coverage: Up to 7,000m+ (with add-ons)
- Evacuation limit: Up to $1,000,000
- Price range: $200-$500 for 2-3 weeks
- Best for: Expeditions and technical climbing
- Advantages: Highest altitude options, expedition coverage
- Considerations: More expensive, may be overkill for standard treks
Allianz Travel Insurance
- Altitude coverage: Up to 5,500m (adventure plan)
- Evacuation limit: Up to $250,000
- Price range: $100-$250 for 2-3 weeks
- Best for: Standard trekking with global brand reliability
- Advantages: Established global network, fast claims
- Considerations: Altitude limits may be restrictive
SafetyWing (Nomad Insurance)
- Altitude coverage: Up to 4,500m
- Evacuation limit: Up to $100,000
- Price range: $40-$80 for 2-3 weeks
- Best for: Budget travelers on lower-altitude treks
- Advantages: Very affordable, flexible duration
- Considerations: Limited altitude coverage, basic adventure coverage
Provider Selection Guide
For standard EBC/Annapurna trek:
- Recommended: Nepal Trekking Insurance or World Nomads
For budget traveler on lower altitude:
- Recommended: SafetyWing or Nepal Trekking Insurance
For peak climbing (6,000m+):
For multiple countries + Nepal:
- Recommended: World Nomads or Allianz
For local support in Nepal:
- Recommended: Nepal Trekking Insurance
For highest evacuation coverage:
What Is the Cost of Trek Insurance?
Understanding travel insurance in Nepal price factors helps you budget appropriately and avoid overpaying or under-insuring.
Price Ranges by Coverage Level
Budget Coverage ($30-$80)
- Altitude: Up to 3,500-4,000m
- Evacuation: $25,000-$50,000
- Medical: $25,000-$50,000
- Suitable for: Poon Hill, lower Annapurna, Langtang (lower sections)
Standard Coverage ($80-$150)
- Altitude: Up to 5,500m
- Evacuation: $50,000-$100,000
- Medical: $50,000-$100,000
- Suitable for: EBC, ABC, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit
Comprehensive Coverage ($150-$300)
- Altitude: Up to 6,000m+
- Evacuation: $100,000-$500,000
- Medical: $100,000+
- Suitable for: Three Passes, high passes, peak climbing
Expedition Coverage ($300-$600+)
- Altitude: 6,000m-8,000m+
- Evacuation: $500,000+
- Medical: $150,000+
- Suitable for: Peak climbing, mountaineering expeditions
Factors Affecting Insurance Cost
- Trek Duration
Longer trips = higher premiums. A 7-day policy costs less than a 21-day policy.
- Maximum Altitude
Higher altitude coverage = higher cost. 6,000m coverage costs more than 4,000m coverage.
- Your Age
Travelers over 50-60 typically pay higher premiums. Some policies have age limits (commonly 65-70).
- Coverage Limits
Higher evacuation and medical limits = higher premiums.
- Deductibles
Lower deductibles = higher premiums. Consider your risk tolerance.
- Additional Activities
Coverage for activities like rock climbing, ice climbing, or skiing adds to cost.
- Trip Cancellation Coverage
Adding trip cancellation/interruption increases premiums.
Sample Pricing: 14-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Nepal Trekking Insurance
- Coverage level: Standard
- Altitude: 5,500m
- Price: $105
World Nomads (Standard)
- Coverage level: Standard
- Altitude: 5,000m
- Price: ~$150
World Nomads (Explorer)
- Coverage level: Comprehensive
- Altitude: 6,000m
- Price: ~$220
Allianz (Adventure)
- Coverage level: Standard
- Altitude: 5,500m
- Price: ~$180
IMG Global (Patriot)
- Coverage level: Comprehensive
- Altitude: 6,000m+
- Price: ~$280
Cheap vs Comprehensive Trekking Insurance: What to Choose?
The question of cheap travel insurance for trekking in Nepal versus comprehensive coverage is important. Here's how to decide:
When Budget Insurance May Be Sufficient
Lower Altitude Treks (Below 4,000m):
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Lower Langtang Valley
- Helambu Trek
- Short Annapurna foothills treks
Characteristics of suitable cheap insurance:
- Covers altitude up to 4,000m
- Basic evacuation coverage ($25,000-$50,000)
- Standard medical coverage
- Shorter duration trips
Budget Option Example:
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance: ~$40-$60 for 2 weeks, covers up to 4,500m
When Comprehensive Insurance Is Essential
High Altitude Treks (Above 5,000m):
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Annapurna Circuit (crossing Thorong La)
- Manaslu Circuit (crossing Larkya La)
- Three Passes Trek
- Any peak climbing
Remote Area Treks:
- Upper Mustang
- Dolpo (Upper and Lower)
- Kanchenjunga
- Makalu Base Camp
Why comprehensive coverage matters here:
- Evacuation costs are significantly higher
- Rescue operations are more complex
- Medical emergencies are more severe at altitude
- Limited alternative options if rescue fails
The False Economy of Cheap Insurance
What cheap insurance often excludes:
- Altitude-related illness
- Helicopter evacuation
- Search and rescue costs
- Pre-existing conditions
- Adventure activities
Real cost comparison:
Scenario: You need helicopter evacuation from EBC
With cheap insurance ($50 policy):
- Policy cost: $50
- Evacuation coverage: $0 (excluded)
- Out-of-pocket if evacuated: $12,000
- Total potential cost: $12,050
With comprehensive insurance ($150 policy):
- Policy cost: $150
- Evacuation coverage: $100,000
- Out-of-pocket if evacuated: $0
- Total potential cost: $150
Recommended Approach
For treks below 4,000m: Budget insurance with altitude verification may be acceptable.
For treks above 4,000m: Invest in comprehensive coverage. The $50-$100 difference in premium is insignificant compared to potential $10,000+ evacuation costs.
Our recommendation: Don't compromise on evacuation coverage. This is the single most important protection for Nepal trekking.
What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Trekking Up to 6000m?
For high-altitude trekking and peak climbing, standard policies won't suffice. Here's what you need for trekking insurance up to 6000m:
Why Standard Insurance Fails at High Altitude
Most travel insurance policies have altitude exclusions:
- Standard travel insurance: 2,000-3,000m maximum
- Basic adventure insurance: 4,000-4,500m maximum
- Standard trekking insurance: 5,000-5,500m maximum
If you're climbing Island Peak (6,189m), Mera Peak (6,476m), or Lobuche Peak (6,119m), standard policies provide zero coverage.
High-Altitude Insurance Requirements
Coverage Checklist for 6,000m+:
- ✅ Explicit altitude coverage to your maximum planned height + buffer
- ✅ High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) coverage
- ✅ High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) coverage
- ✅ Technical rescue coverage (rope rescue, crevasse rescue)
- ✅ Helicopter evacuation from altitude
- ✅ Search and rescue coverage
- ✅ Medical evacuation to home country
- ✅ 24/7 emergency assistance
Best Providers for 6,000m Coverage
IMG Global - iTravelInsured
- Coverage up to 7,000m+ with add-ons
- Specifically designed for mountaineering
- Covers technical climbing activities
- Price: $250-$450 for 3-4 weeks
World Nomads Explorer Plan
- Coverage up to 6,000m
- Includes peak climbing activities
- Good balance of coverage and cost
- Price: $200-$300 for 2-3 weeks
Global Rescue
- Specialized rescue membership
- Can supplement other insurance
- Direct rescue coordination
- Price: $300-$400 annually
Peak Climbing Specific Considerations
Island Peak
- Altitude: 6,189m
- Minimum coverage needed: 6,500m
Mera Peak
- Altitude: 6,476m
- Minimum coverage needed: 6,500m
Lobuche Peak
- Altitude: 6,119m
- Minimum coverage needed: 6,500m
Ama Dablam
- Altitude: 6,812m
- Minimum coverage needed: 7,000m
Baruntse
- Altitude: 7,129m
- Minimum coverage needed: 7,500m
Important: Always purchase coverage higher than your planned maximum altitude. Weather, route changes, or emergencies may take you higher than expected.
How to Purchase Travel Insurance for Nepal Trekking
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Determine Your Requirements
- Maximum altitude of your trek
- Total trip duration (add buffer days)
- Specific activities (trekking only vs. peak climbing)
- Your age and any pre-existing conditions
- Budget constraints
Step 2: Compare Providers
- Check altitude coverage limits
- Verify evacuation coverage amounts
- Read exclusions carefully
- Compare deductibles
- Check claim processes and reviews
Step 3: Purchase Timeline
- International insurance: Purchase 1-2 weeks before departure
- Nepal-based insurance: Can purchase upon arrival in Kathmandu
- Activation time: Most policies have 24-48 hour activation period
Step 4: Documentation
Prepare these documents:
- Passport copy
- Trek itinerary with dates
- Emergency contact information
- Credit/debit card for payment
- Any medical history if required
Step 5: Confirmation and Access
- Save policy documents digitally (phone, email, cloud)
- Print hard copies for checkpoints
- Save emergency contact numbers offline
- Share policy details with trekking agency and emergency contacts
Where to Purchase
Online (International Providers):
- World Nomads: worldnomads.com
- IMG Global: imglobal.com
- Allianz: allianztravelinsurance.com
- SafetyWing: safetywing.com
In Nepal (Local Providers):
- Nepal Trekking Insurance offices in Thamel, Kathmandu
- Through your trekking agency
- Tourism offices in major hubs
Tips for Smooth Purchase
- Read the fine print: Especially altitude exclusions and activity definitions
- Understand exclusions: Pre-existing conditions, alcohol-related incidents, unapproved activities
- Check claim process: Direct billing vs. reimbursement
- Verify coverage dates: Must cover entire trip including travel days
- Keep receipts: For any medical expenses during trek
Nepal Trekking Insurance Review: What Trekkers Say
Based on actual trekker experiences, here's what matters most when choosing travel insurance Nepal:
What Trekkers Appreciate
Fast Local Response:
"When my friend got HAPE at Everest Base Camp, having local insurance meant the helicopter was dispatched within 2 hours. International insurance would have required extensive verification." — Australian trekker, 2024
Cashless Claims:
"I didn't have to pay anything upfront for my evacuation from Manaslu. The insurance company coordinated directly with the rescue company." — German trekker, 2024
24/7 Support:
"At 2 AM when I developed altitude sickness, I could actually reach someone who spoke English and knew the Nepal healthcare system." — American trekker, 2023
Common Complaints
Slow International Claims:
"My international insurance took 3 months to reimburse my evacuation costs. I had to put $8,000 on my credit card first." — British trekker, 2024
Coverage Denials:
"My policy said 'adventure activities covered' but they denied my claim because trekking above 4,000m wasn't specifically listed." — Canadian trekker, 2023
Altitude Exclusions:
"I bought cheap travel insurance without reading carefully. When I needed evacuation from ABC, I discovered altitude sickness wasn't covered." — Indian trekker, 2024
Key Lessons from Reviews
- Verify altitude coverage in writing — Don't assume "adventure" means high-altitude
- Local providers offer faster response — Critical for emergencies
- Cashless claims save stress — Important when you're sick and far from ATMs
- Read exclusions before purchasing — Not after you need to claim
- Keep all documentation — Medical reports, receipts, evacuation certificates
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for trekking in Nepal?
Travel insurance is not legally mandated by Nepali government law. However, it is strongly required by most trekking agencies as a booking condition, often requested at permit checkpoints, and practically essential since helicopter rescue operators typically verify insurance before dispatching aircraft. For all practical purposes, trekking without insurance is both financially risky and increasingly difficult.
Which travel insurance is best for trekking in Nepal?
The best travel insurance for trekking in Nepal depends on your specific trek. For standard high-altitude treks (EBC, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu), Nepal Trekking Insurance ($95-$135) or World Nomads ($150-$250) provide excellent coverage. For peak climbing above 6,000m, IMG Global offers the most comprehensive high-altitude coverage. Local providers like Nepal Trekking Insurance offer faster emergency response and cashless claims.
What is the best travel insurance for trekking?
The best travel insurance for trekking should include: explicit altitude coverage for your maximum planned height, helicopter evacuation coverage of at least $50,000, medical coverage of at least $50,000, 24/7 emergency assistance, and coverage for altitude-related illness. World Nomads Explorer plan and Nepal Trekking Insurance are top choices for most Nepal treks.
What is the cost of trek insurance?
Trek insurance costs range from $30-$500+ depending on coverage level. Budget options (lower altitude, basic coverage): $30-$80. Standard trekking coverage (up to 5,500m): $95-$150. Comprehensive coverage (up to 6,000m): $150-$300. Expedition coverage (6,000m+): $300-$600. For a typical 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek, expect to pay $100-$200 for adequate coverage.
What is the best travel insurance for trekking up to 6000m?
For trekking insurance up to 6000m, IMG Global iTravelInsured and World Nomads Explorer plan are the best options. IMG Global offers coverage up to 7,000m+ with mountaineering add-ons ($250-$450). World Nomads Explorer covers up to 6,000m including peak climbing ($200-$300). Ensure your policy explicitly states the altitude limit and covers technical rescue, HAPE, and HACE.
Can I buy trekking insurance after arriving in Nepal?
Yes, you can purchase trekking insurance after arriving in Nepal. Nepal Trekking Insurance and other local providers have offices in Thamel, Kathmandu. Policies typically activate within 24 hours of purchase. However, purchasing before departure is recommended to cover any pre-trip incidents and ensure you're not rushing to find coverage upon arrival.
Does regular travel insurance cover trekking in Nepal?
Most regular travel insurance does NOT adequately cover trekking in Nepal. Standard policies typically exclude: altitudes above 2,000-3,000m, adventure activities, helicopter evacuation, and altitude-related illness. You need specialized trekking or adventure travel insurance that explicitly covers high-altitude trekking activities.
What happens if I need evacuation without insurance?
Without insurance, you'll likely need to provide upfront payment or guarantee before helicopter dispatch—typically $10,000-$20,000 via credit card or wire transfer. This can cause dangerous delays in life-threatening situations. Some rescue operators may refuse dispatch without payment confirmation. Hospital treatment will also require upfront payment, and you'll be responsible for all costs personally.
Does travel insurance cover altitude sickness?
Specialized trekking insurance covers altitude sickness including AMS, HAPE, and HACE treatment and evacuation. However, standard travel insurance often excludes altitude-related conditions. Always verify that your policy explicitly covers "altitude sickness" or "high-altitude illness" before purchasing. This is one of the most common reasons for claim denials.
How much helicopter evacuation coverage do I need?
For most Nepal treks, $50,000-$100,000 helicopter evacuation coverage is recommended. Everest region evacuations can cost $8,000-$15,000, Manaslu evacuations $10,000-$18,000. Higher coverage ($100,000+) is recommended for remote areas where multiple rescue attempts may be needed or weather delays extend operations.
Conclusion: Making the Right Insurance Decision
Key Takeaways
Travel insurance for trekking in Nepal is not legally mandatory—but it is practically essential.
Here's what you should remember:
- While not a government law, insurance is strongly required by agencies and rescue providers
- Helicopter evacuation without insurance can cost $10,000-$20,000+
- Standard travel insurance doesn't cover high-altitude trekking
- Local providers offer faster emergency response in Nepal
- Always verify altitude coverage matches your trek's maximum height
Your Insurance Checklist
Before booking your Nepal trek, ensure your insurance includes:
- ✅ Altitude coverage exceeding your trek's highest point
- ✅ Helicopter evacuation coverage ($50,000+ minimum)
- ✅ Medical expenses coverage ($50,000+ minimum)
- ✅ Altitude sickness explicitly covered
- ✅ 24/7 emergency assistance
- ✅ Coverage dates including buffer days
Final Recommendation
For most trekkers doing standard high-altitude routes (Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, Langtang):
- Best value: Nepal Trekking Insurance ($95-$135)
- Best international option: World Nomads Explorer ($200-$300)
- Best for peak climbing: IMG Global ($250-$450)
Don't let insurance concerns stop your Himalayan adventure—but don't skip this essential protection either. The small investment in proper coverage ensures your dream trek doesn't become a financial nightmare.
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