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Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is not just a recommendation—it is a critical safety requirement for anyone trekking to the Gokyo Lakes at altitudes exceeding 5,000m. Your policy must explicitly cover emergency helicopter evacuation at high altitudes, ensuring that in the event of AMS or injury, you have access to life-saving medical transport without devastating financial burden.
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Why You Need Insurance
Trekking in the Everest region involves inherent risks, from altitude sickness to unpredictable weather. A comprehensive travel insurance policy is not just recommended—it's a requirement for your safety and peace of mind.
Critical Requirement
Your policy MUST explicitly cover helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 meters. Many standard policies only cover up to 2,500m or 3,000m.
Medical Coverage
- Hospitalization
- Emergency Treatment
- Repatriation
Travel Coverage
- Flight Cancellations
- Trip Interruption
- Lost Luggage
What to Check
Altitude Limit
Ensure it covers trekking up to 6,000m (Gokyo Ri is 5,357m).
Helicopter Rescue
Must include emergency heli-evacuation from remote areas.
Direct Payment
Check if the insurer pays the hospital/rescue directly or if you must pay upfront.
Pre-existing Conditions
Disclose any health issues to ensure your coverage is valid.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your insurance policy and the 24/7 emergency contact number with you at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you hit the trail
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Common Questions
Q: Why choose Gokyo over Everest Base Camp?
Gokyo offers superior panoramic views (4 of the 14 highest peaks), pristine turquoise lakes, and significantly fewer crowds than the main EBC highway, providing a more serene and authentic experience.
Q: What fitness level is required for trekking in Nepal?
A moderate to high level of fitness is required. You should be comfortable walking 5-7 hours a day with a light pack. Cardiovascular training and leg strength are key preparations.
Q: What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained to spot early AMS symptoms. The primary protocol is to stop ascending, hydrate, and if symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Helicopter evacuation is available for emergencies.
Booking
Q: How far in advance should I book my trek?
We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (Spring and Autumn), to ensure flight availability to Lukla and the best teahouse accommodations.
Q: What is your cancellation and refund policy?
We offer a full refund for cancellations made 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 14 days are subject to a 50% fee. We recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Preparation
Q: Is there WiFi and electricity on the trail?
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Q: How much extra cash should I bring?
We recommend $25-$40 USD per day for personal expenses like snacks, hot showers, charging, WiFi, and tips for your crew.
Safety
Q: Does my insurance need to cover helicopter rescue?
Yes, it is mandatory. Your insurance must specifically cover trekking up to 6,000m and include emergency helicopter evacuation.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
We do not recommend drinking tap or stream water. Use water purification tablets, filters, or purchase boiled water at teahouses to stay safe.
Permits
Q: What specific permits are required for Gokyo?
You need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. We handle all paperwork for our trekkers.
Q: Do I need a guide for this trek?
As of 2023, the Nepal government has made it mandatory for solo trekkers to hire a licensed guide in the Everest region for safety and environmental protection.
Q: What is the luggage limit for the Lukla flight?
The weight limit is 15kg total per person (10kg for checked bag, 5kg for hand carry). Extra weight can be paid for but is not guaranteed to fly on the same plane.
Need a custom itinerary?
We can design a trip tailored specifically to your needs, fitness level, and schedule. It only takes 2 minutes to start.