Trekking
Nepal Trekking Insurance: What Cover You Need
A helicopter rescue from EBC costs USD 4,000-6,000 and is not covered by standard travel insurance. Here is exactly what policy you need before trekking in Nepal.
Standard travel insurance almost never covers high-altitude helicopter evacuation — the most common and most expensive emergency on Nepal treks.
Overview
Any trekking insurance for Nepal above 4,000m must include: helicopter evacuation cover (minimum USD 10,000), emergency medical treatment, trip cancellation, and altitude-related illness as a covered cause. Policies must specify the maximum altitude they cover — many stop at 4,000m or 5,000m. For EBC, Mera Peak, or any 5,000m+ trek, verify coverage explicitly extends to 6,000m. World Nomads, SafetyWing, ISOS, and specialist mountaineering insurers (BMC in the UK, Ripcord) are the most commonly used providers. Before flying into Kathmandu, organise your policy — Sajilo can get you to your Kathmandu insurance office appointment on time.
FAQ
Does my credit card travel insurance cover Nepal trekking? Rarely. Most card insurance excludes high-altitude trekking and has no helicopter evacuation clause. Check your policy wording explicitly.
What altitude do I need coverage to? EBC and Kalapathar reach 5,545m. Thorong La is 5,416m. Mardi Himal is 4,500m. Buy cover for at least 1,000m above your highest point.
Planning this trip? 🎒
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What documentation does the helicopter company need before flying? A guarantee of payment from your insurer (usually a credit card pre-auth or insurance company direct billing). Carry your policy number and insurer emergency line number in your trekking pack.
