Why Travel Insurance is Essential
Travel insurance is not just recommended for trips to Nepal — it is essential. The Himalayan environment presents unique risks including altitude sickness, helicopter evacuations, and remote trekking conditions that standard travel insurance policies may not cover. Nepal Lion Tours requires all travelers to have comprehensive coverage before departing on any trekking or peak climbing trip.
Coverage You Need
Your travel insurance policy should include:
- High-altitude trekking coverage: Verify that your policy covers trekking up to the maximum altitude of your chosen route. Many standard policies exclude activities above 3,000 meters.
- Emergency helicopter evacuation: A helicopter rescue from above 4,000 meters can cost USD 5,000-10,000. Ensure your policy covers this without caps that are too low.
- Medical expenses: Coverage of at least USD 100,000 for medical treatment, including hospital stays and emergency dental treatment.
- Trip cancellation and interruption: Coverage for non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, injury, or other covered reasons.
- Baggage and equipment: Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and trekking gear.
Common Exclusions
Be aware of common exclusions in travel insurance policies:
- Activities above a specified altitude (often 3,000m or 6,000m depending on the policy)
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Extreme sports and adventure activities not declared at the time of purchase
- Travel to regions designated as high-risk by your government
Recommended Insurance Providers
We recommend the following providers who offer policies specifically designed for Himalayan trekking:
- World Nomads: Popular among adventure travelers with good high-altitude coverage
- Allianz Global Assistance: Comprehensive plans with flexible coverage options
- SafetyWing: Affordable nomad-friendly insurance with medical evacuation coverage
Always read the policy wording carefully and contact the insurer directly if you are unsure whether your specific trek is covered.
Booking with Nepal Lion Tours
Before your trip departs, we will request a copy of your insurance policy to verify that your coverage meets the minimum requirements for your itinerary. This step is mandatory for all trekking and climbing bookings. If you need help choosing the right policy, our team is happy to advise based on your specific trip.