Nepal offers a plethora of exploration opportunities. Along your travel, you will find unparalleled beauty as you explore the subtropical jungles and the high altitude terrain. Despite the natural beauty, the remote wilderness can pose significant risks. To keep you financially secure in case of unforeseen incidents, the Government of Nepal and Nature Lovers Treks and Tours emphasize that you purchase a comprehensive insurance that covers all possible risks.
Whether you are heading on a leisure tour of Kathmandu Valley or taking on the strenuous Himalayan trails, understanding what Nepal travel insurance suits you the best is essential. Below, we discuss everything you need to know before purchasing your insurance in Nepal:
Why is Insurance Mandatory in Nepal?
Nepal’s core beauty lies in its extreme geography. Most premier treks involve traversing rugged terrain with no roads and risky conditions. In case a traveler falls ill or suffers an injury in this terrain, the only way out is a private helicopter rescue. Though lifesaving, these operations are incredibly expensive and can create a financial burden costing over USD 5,000. The costs tend to rise depending on the altitude and distance. Without proper insurance, rescue operations can be delayed, risking the lives of travelers.
At present, most trekking permits, such as TIMS Card and climbing permits, require travelers to disclose their insurance details as a part of the application process. This ensures that the travelers are well-insured and the state or the local travel agency is not liable for rescue costs.
What should your Nepal Travel Insurance Cover?
High-Altitude Helicopter Rescue and Evacuation: This is the most crucial insurance, especially if you are trekking in Nepal. In the Himalayas, the “search and rescue” mission is a standard emergency response that can be crucial for the safety and well-being of stranded/ailing trekkers. The high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation clause should consist of:
- Emergency Air Evacuation: Ensure your policy covers the cost of the helicopter that is being dispatched to your location.
- The “Search” Component: Confirm that your policy explicitly mentions “Search and Rescue.” Some policies cover medical evacuation, but won’t pay for the flight in case the helicopter has to search for you first.
- Direct Payment: Though in most cases you or your agency will coordinate with your insurer, it is wise to choose an insurance company that has close ties with Nepali helicopter operators to facilitate cashless rescue.
Specialized Trekking Coverage: Trekking insurance typically has an altitude cap, usually around 2,500 or 3,000 meters. However, most famous treks in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek (5,364 meters) or the Annapurna Circuit Trek (5,416 meters), go well beyond the standard threshold. It is crucial that you:
- Verify the Limit of your Trek: Ensure your policy covers the maximum altitude of your itinerary. For example, if you are trekking to the Everest Base Camp, your policy must cover up to 6,000 meters.
- Specify Activities: Make sure that your policy includes “mountaineering” or “trekking” as your covered activity.
Comprehensive Medical Treatment and Repatriation: Upon rescue from the mountains, or in case you fall sick during tours in the lower altitudes, the insurance should also cover your medical treatment once you reach a hospital in Kathmandu. The policy should include:
- Hospitalization: Coverage should include medical fees, diagnostic tests, and overnight stays at international-standard hospitals in Nepal.
- Repatriation: In severe cases, you may need to be flown back to your home country for long-term recovery or further treatment. Repatriation covers the medical escort and specialized seating on international flights, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Trip Cancellation and Unpredictable Weather: The Himalayas in Nepal are infamous for their unpredictable weather patterns. This can lead to flight delays or even cancellations, most notably while you’re flying to the Everest region via Lukla.
- Flight Delays: Fog or high winds can shut down mountain airports for days. Your policy should cover these delays and reimburse you for the cost of additional accommodation or the price of a helicopter flight if your scheduled plane is grounded.
- Trip Interruptions: Nepal is prone to natural calamities, such as earthquakes, and also has a history of unpredictable civil unrest. In case your trip is cut short or cancelled, your insurance helps you recover the non-refundable costs of your trekking package.
How to Handle a Claim in Nepal?
In case of emergency, your guide or trekking agency typically contacts your insurance provider through the company’s emergency hotline immediately. The insurer will then issue a “Guarantee of Payment” to the helicopter company or hospital. For reimbursement, keep the following documents safe:
Receipts: For smaller medical bills and flight delays, you will most likely pay out of your pocket and claim later. Keep every receipt, boarding pass, and medical report to present to your insurance company.
Police Report: In case of theft or loss of property, a police report is mandatory for a successful claim.
Insurance Exclusion Warning
Even the best insurance policy can void your coverage in case of certain actions. Most insurers will not honor a claim if the injury occurred while the traveler was under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. Furthermore, if you attempt “peak climbing” with standard insurance, the policy will not suffice. Ensure you upgrade your policy in such cases.