Travel insurance isn't optional on a restricted-area, high-altitude trek. It is a required part of your booking with us, and for good reason: Manaslu's remoteness means helicopter evacuation is often the only fast way out in an emergency.
What Your Travel Insurance Policy Must Cover
- High-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 m (standard travel insurance often excludes trekking above 3,000–4,000 m; check this specifically)
- Helicopter evacuation and rescue costs, which can run into thousands of dollars if paid out of pocket
- Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization in Nepal
- Trip cancellation/interruption, useful given restricted-area permit costs are non-refundable once filed
Recommended Insurance Providers
Providers popular with trekkers in this region typically include Adventure Sports Cover 360, Global Rescue, and IMG; but the right choice depends on your home country and service in Nepal. We recommend confirming altitude limits (ideally 6,000m+) directly with the provider before purchase, since terms change.
How Evacuation Works on the Manaslu Trail
If a guide identifies a medical emergency, they contact our Kathmandu office, who coordinates directly with helicopter rescue services and your insurance provider. Depending on weather and location, evacuation from higher sections of the route (Samdo, Larkya La approach) may take longer to mobilize than lower-altitude sections. Another reason early symptom reporting matters, covered in our Altitude Sickness Guide.
What to Bring/Prepare Before Departure
- Printed and digital copies of your insurance policy
- Your insurer's 24/7 emergency contact number, saved offline
- Policy number shared with your guide/agency before trekking begins
FAQ
Is travel insurance mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, we require proof of travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation before confirming any Manaslu or Tsum Valley booking.
Does travel insurance cover helicopter rescue in Nepal?
Only if your specific policy includes helicopter evacuation and adventure/high-altitude trekking coverage; many standard policies exclude this, so it must be checked and added if necessary.
How much altitude coverage do I need for Larkya La Pass?
Since Larkya La sits at 5,106m, your policy should cover at least up to 6,000m to include a safety margin.