- The best travel insurance plans for Nepal
- Is it currently safe to travel to Nepal?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Nepal?
- Why take out travel insurance for Nepal?
- Travel insurance coverage for Nepal
- The cost of travel insurance for Nepal
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Nepal
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Nepal?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Nepal: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Nepal covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and trip cancellations or interruptions.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but vital for covering potential medical evacuations from remote trekking areas.
3. Healthcare cost: A helicopter medical evacuation from the mountains can easily cost over AUD$5,000.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Nepal typically costs between AUD$50 and AUD$100.
5. Good to know: Solo trekking is banned; all foreign trekkers must hire a licensed guide for their safety.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Nepal.
The best travel insurance plans for Nepal
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | This plan offers high limits and broad adventure cover for Nepal. - evacuation and altitude illnesses - hospitalisation - 24/7 hotline |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | Reliable option for all-round trips to Nepal. - strong medical cap - 24/7 global support - no excess |
| Tourist Card | AUD 0.8M | Good choice for tourism and shorter stays. - sufficient medical cover - essentials included - budget-friendly pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Balanced plan for comprehensive Nepal travel. - major medical bills - rescue costs - clear exclusions |
| Globe Partner | AUD 0.5M | Suitable for most standard Nepal trips. - core medical needs - emergency return - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 0.8M | Simpler cover for low-risk travel to Nepal. - essential medical costs - fast claims - limited cap |
- evacuation and altitude illnesses
- hospitalisation
- 24/7 hotline
- strong medical cap
- 24/7 global support
- no excess
- sufficient medical cover
- essentials included
- budget-friendly pricing
- major medical bills
- rescue costs
- clear exclusions
- core medical needs
- emergency return
- civil liability
- essential medical costs
- fast claims
- limited cap
Is it currently safe to travel to Nepal?
As of June 2025, the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Nepal due to risks of civil unrest, natural disasters and limited healthcare outside Kathmandu.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: political demonstrations and unrest can occur in Kathmandu or other cities with little notice, sometimes resulting in curfews or transport disruptions. Protests near government buildings are quickly dispersed.
- Health risks: medical care is limited outside the capital. There is an increased risk of altitude sickness above 2,500m, and outbreaks of diseases such as dengue and rabies can occur. Emergency evacuation is frequently needed after trekking incidents in regions like Annapurna.
- Legal requirements: trekking alone is not permitted for foreigners; hiring a licensed local guide is mandatory in all trekking areas. Entry also requires an Australian passport valid for 6 months and a tourist visa, which can be purchased on arrival.
- Environmental hazards: the country is prone to earthquakes and severe landslides, particularly in the monsoon season (June–September). Seasonal air pollution in urban areas, especially Kathmandu, can affect respiratory health.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Nepal.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Nepal?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travellers from Australia to enter Nepal.
However, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Medical facilities are limited outside Kathmandu, and emergency evacuation, especially after trekking accidents or due to altitude sickness, can be extremely expensive.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Nepal. This high percentage reflects the potential costs of medical care and the risks related to trekking or environmental hazards.
Why take out travel insurance for Nepal?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Nepal.
In Nepal, public hospitals in cities outside Kathmandu often lack resources and modern equipment, making them unsuitable for serious medical needs. Foreigners are commonly directed to expensive private facilities like Norvic International Hospital or Grande International Hospital in Kathmandu, where care and evacuation can quickly become costly.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to Australia in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Nepal.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Norvic International Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalised 48 hours after contracting an infection | NPR 110,000 (AUD 1,300) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | NPR 85,000 (AUD 1,000) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | NPR 1,600,000 (AUD 19,000) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | NPR 260,000 (AUD 3,100) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel insurance coverage for Nepal
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Nepal.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers unforeseen doctor or hospital bills following an illness or accident during your trip. We recommend a limit of at least AUD 500,000. |
| 🚁 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Arranges helicopter rescue or transport home in case of severe illness or accident (e.g. trekking injuries, altitude sickness). Select coverage up to AUD 500,000. |
| 🏔️ Search and rescue | If you need to be located and rescued in mountain or remote areas, this is essential during trekking. Recommended minimum: AUD 20,000. |
| 💊 Hospitalisation and medication | Pays for prescribed drugs and hospital stays after a covered claim. A limit of AUD 100,000 is advised. |
| 🎒 Luggage and personal belongings | Covers loss, theft, or damage of baggage, valuable items, and documents. Minimum: AUD 7,500. |
| 🛫 Trip cancellation and interruption | Compensates non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or cut short due to illness, injury, or natural disasters. Recommended: AUD 10,000. |
| 👩⚕️ Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally cause harm or damage to others. We suggest at least AUD 1,000,000 coverage. |
| ⛷️ Sports and adventure activity coverage | Extends benefits to trekking, rafting, paragliding, and altitude-related emergencies. Confirm if your policy includes these risks. |
We recommend a limit of at least AUD 500,000.
Select coverage up to AUD 500,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 20,000.
A limit of AUD 100,000 is advised.
Minimum: AUD 7,500.
Recommended: AUD 10,000.
We suggest at least AUD 1,000,000 coverage.
Confirm if your policy includes these risks.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often comes with low coverage limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer offering comprehensive coverage. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for immediate certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Nepal
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 40 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 70 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 110 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 230 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
When sorting your travel insurance for Nepal, the price depends on your age, trip duration, and chosen level of cover. Given the risks, extras like trekking/mountaineering activities and helicopter evacuation are crucial and will affect the final cost. Keeping these factors in mind ensures you get the right policy for your Himalayan adventure without any worries, mate.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Nepal
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Nepal while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Trip duration | Insurance costs increase with longer stays, especially for multiple months or trekking expeditions in Nepal. | Limit your coverage period to match your exact travel dates and don't pay for unnecessary extra days. |
| 🏕️ Planned activities | Trekking and adventure sports in Nepal often require extended or more expensive coverage. | Only select activity options that you will actually undertake. Avoid paying for unnecessary extras. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Number of travellers | Adding more people to your policy usually increases total cost, but some group or family policies have discounts. | Look for group policy discounts if travelling as a family or small group for the best value. |
| 🗺️ Level of coverage | Higher benefit limits mean more protection but higher costs. Healthcare and evacuation from high-altitude Nepal can be expensive. | Select adequate but not excessive limits. Carefully assess evacuation and medical needs for your trip. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age influences price, with seniors often charged more. Nepal’s terrain can mean higher risks for some age groups. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, making it a good choice for older travellers. |
| 🏥 Medical excess | Choosing a higher excess (out-of-pocket) will reduce the premium, but ensure you could pay this if needed in Nepal. | Consider raising excess only if your budget allows, but check hospital fee estimates for emergencies. |
| 📱 How you buy | Buying online often offers better prices and easy comparison between multiple policies. | Use an online comparison tool like HelloSafe to quickly identify the best options for your needs. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Nepal?
It is perfectly reasonable to check if your current insurance, such as credit card insurance or private health cover, will protect you during your trip to Nepal. Unfortunately, this coverage is often very limited or insufficient for overseas emergencies. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Nepal? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | No cover outside Australia. Emergency or routine care not provided. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 1,000,000+ for hospitalisation, emergencies, and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, nib) | Limited coverage | May cover some emergencies, but no direct payment. Medical evacuation and adventure sports excluded. | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 1,000,000+, including helicopter rescue and evacuation from remote areas. |
| Classic credit card (Commonwealth Bank Low Rate, ANZ First, Westpac Low Rate) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical costs up to AUD 20,000. No trekking, altitude, or lengthy stays covered. | Travel insurance provides high altitude trekking, hospital stays, and 24/7 assistance with higher benefit limits. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, Westpac Altitude Black, NAB Rewards Platinum) | Limited coverage | Emergency cover up to AUD 155,000, but usually excludes many adventure activities. | Travel insurance can cover AUD 1,000,000+ for serious issues, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. |
Example
Trekking near Everest, Mike developed severe altitude sickness. The helicopter rescue to Kathmandu cost AU$25,000. His CommBank credit card's complimentary insurance only covered AU$2,000, and his Aussie health fund covered nothing. Without proper travel insurance for high-altitude trekking, he was left with a massive AU$23,000 bill.
Expert advice
Your credit card or private health cover often excludes key situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Scrutinise your policy's fine print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?
Yes, Australian travellers need a visa to visit Nepal. You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Visas are available for different durations, costing around AUD 50 for 15 days, AUD 80 for 30 days, or AUD 200 for 90 days.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Nepal?
First, compare insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best value. Next, check each policy’s inclusions and exclusions, ensuring it covers Nepal-specific risks like medical evacuation, trekking, or altitude incidents. Buy the preferred policy online. Once paid, you’ll receive your certificate by email for your records.
What specific medical risks should I consider when travelling to Nepal?
Nepal presents medical challenges such as altitude sickness, which can occur above 2,500 metres. In addition, mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue are present, and waterborne diseases (typhoid, cholera) are common. Ensure your travel insurance covers altitude sickness, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and access to private hospital care.
Does travel insurance for Nepal cover trekking and high-altitude activities?
Not all policies automatically cover trekking or high-altitude activities. You must ensure your travel insurance specifically mentions cover for trekking, mountaineering, or activities above a certain altitude. If you plan these activities, look for policies that include helicopter rescue, emergency evacuation, and treatment for altitude-related illness.
Will my travel insurance pay for emergency evacuation in Nepal?
Many Australian travel insurance policies include cover for emergency evacuation if it is medically necessary. This is especially important in Nepal, where access to quality care is limited outside Kathmandu. Check your policy to confirm cover for helicopter rescue or air ambulance services, which may cost tens of thousands of AUD without insurance.
How soon should I purchase travel insurance before my trip to Nepal?
It is best to take out travel insurance at the time of booking your trip to Nepal. Buying early ensures you are covered for unexpected events before departure, such as trip cancellation or medical emergencies. You will still be able to buy insurance closer to your departure if needed, but coverage starts only from the policy’s effective date.
Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?
Yes, Australian travellers need a visa to visit Nepal. You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Visas are available for different durations, costing around AUD 50 for 15 days, AUD 80 for 30 days, or AUD 200 for 90 days.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Nepal?
First, compare insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best value. Next, check each policy’s inclusions and exclusions, ensuring it covers Nepal-specific risks like medical evacuation, trekking, or altitude incidents. Buy the preferred policy online. Once paid, you’ll receive your certificate by email for your records.
What specific medical risks should I consider when travelling to Nepal?
Nepal presents medical challenges such as altitude sickness, which can occur above 2,500 metres. In addition, mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue are present, and waterborne diseases (typhoid, cholera) are common. Ensure your travel insurance covers altitude sickness, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and access to private hospital care.
Does travel insurance for Nepal cover trekking and high-altitude activities?
Not all policies automatically cover trekking or high-altitude activities. You must ensure your travel insurance specifically mentions cover for trekking, mountaineering, or activities above a certain altitude. If you plan these activities, look for policies that include helicopter rescue, emergency evacuation, and treatment for altitude-related illness.
Will my travel insurance pay for emergency evacuation in Nepal?
Many Australian travel insurance policies include cover for emergency evacuation if it is medically necessary. This is especially important in Nepal, where access to quality care is limited outside Kathmandu. Check your policy to confirm cover for helicopter rescue or air ambulance services, which may cost tens of thousands of AUD without insurance.
How soon should I purchase travel insurance before my trip to Nepal?
It is best to take out travel insurance at the time of booking your trip to Nepal. Buying early ensures you are covered for unexpected events before departure, such as trip cancellation or medical emergencies. You will still be able to buy insurance closer to your departure if needed, but coverage starts only from the policy’s effective date.
On the same topic
