Do I need travel insurance for India?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for India. Healthcare costs for uninsured visitors can run into tens of thousands of dollars.

How much travel insurance coverage do I need for India?

For India we recommend a minimum of USD 100,000 in medical coverage, plus trip cancellation and emergency evacuation cover.

What is the emergency number in India?

In India the emergency number is 112 (unified) / 108 (ambulance).

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India Travel Insurance: Cost, Coverage & Requirements (2026)

Travel insurance for India: recommended minimum USD 100,000 medical cover, emergency number 112 (unified) / 108 (ambulance), insurance is strongly recommended though not legally required.

India has excellent private hospitals (Apollo, Fortis, Max) in major cities that rival Western standards at a fraction of the cost. Rural healthcare is basic, and medical evacuation to a metro city is often necessary for serious cases.

Common travel risks in India

Delhi-belly and severe gastroenteritis affecting up to 50% of travellers
Road traffic accidents — among the highest fatality rates worldwide
Air-quality emergencies in Delhi and northern India (October–February)
Monsoon flooding and landslides June–September

Safety tips for visiting India

Drink only sealed bottled water and avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruit
Use only app-based rides (Ola, Uber) in major cities, especially after dark
Carry an N95 mask for Delhi visits during high-AQI months
Confirm trekking and altitude cover for Ladakh, Sikkim or Himachal trips

Related India resources

India passport photo India visa photo India photo checker