Travel insurance for India
India for British Nomads—Adventure, Spice & A Few Travel Smarts
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- What does World Nomads travel insurance cover?
- Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy
- What’s not covered?
- India travel insurance and safety tips
British nomads have been falling under India’s spell for decades, and it’s easy to see (and smell) why. From the aromatic pull of street-side butter chicken to the age-old spice trails of Kerala, India is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Whether you’re chasing thrills in the Himalayas, riding camels through Rajasthan’s deserts, or stretching into sunrise yoga in Rishikesh, this country delivers an adventure experience like no other.
But let’s get one thing straight - India is incredible, but it’s not always easy. Between unpredictable transport, street food roulette, and the occasional monkey trying to steal your sunglasses, it pays to be prepared. Here’s everything you need to know before diving headfirst into India's chaos, beauty, and magic - from visas and vaccines to safety tips and why travel insurance should be on your research list.
What does World Nomads travel insurance cover?
From haggling in Delhi’s bustling bazaars to watching the sunrise over the Ganges, riding your moped through the bustling streets in Kolkata, or catching a glimpse of the wildlife in India’s famed sanctuaries, there’s no shortage of once-in-a-lifetime moments waiting for British nomads.
But no one wants their memories tainted for the wrong reasons – dealing with a broken leg in a foreign hospital while uninsured (for example) can seriously derail that trip of a lifetime. Rest assured, we’ve got travel insurance designed for the way you roam.
Our Standard and Explorer can offer cover (up to the policy limits) for:
- Family coverage: Traveling with your crew? Both our Single Trip Annual Multi-Trip plans can cover two adults and up to six dependents under one policy (provided dependents are under 18 at the time of policy purchase).
- Trip interruption and cancellation: Flights can be cancelled, trains can run late and monsoons can roll in. Our Trip Interruption Insurance (and SmartDelay™) could be helpful in these unpredictable moments!
- Medical emergencies –Snake bite? A tuk-tuk ride gone wrong? Our travel insurance for overseas emergency medical could cover you for up to £5,000,000 (Standard Plan) or £10,000,000 (Explorer Plan) and could be the most valuable asset in your backpack if things don’t go according to plan.
- Non-medical emergencies - Caught a mild case of Delhi Belly but don’t need an emergency room? World Nomads offers access to Air Doctor, so you can connect with a doctor virtually or find one nearby - without the stress of navigating India’s healthcare system. Whether you need a prescription refill, quick medical advice, or treatment for minor issues, Air Doctor makes it easy to get the help you need and get back to exploring.
- Adventure activities: World Nomads offers over 150+ activities, from white-water rafting in Rishikesh to scuba diving in Goa. If adventure is your thing, we’ve got you covered.
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance: Stuck in a medical emergency? Our Emergency Medical Assistance Team is available 24/7, so you’re never alone, no matter where your adventure takes you.
- Personal Belongings: While India’s warmth and hospitality are legendary, it’s still wise to stay alert - especially in crowded markets, train stations, and tourist hotspots where pickpockets are always on the lookout. World Nomads policies offer cover if the personal belongings you own and take with you on a trip are lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having your luggage stolen click HERE to find out the steps you need to take.
Ready to chase the chaos? Grab your travel insurance quote here.
Dive into your policy details for the full scoop, and if anything's unclear, contact us.
Speaking of policies…don’t just skim over the policy wording – give it a good read. Understand exactly what’s covered (and what’s not) for your planned activities. Some activities might require you to flex some qualifications or licenses or team up with a professional guide. And remember, living on the edge might mean a slight uptick in your policy’s price (for obvious reasons).
Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy
For British travellers who are always on the move, our Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) policy offers the freedom to explore India and beyond without the hassle of arranging new travel insurance for every trip.
Sticking around in India for a while? A Single Trip policy might be the better fit. Not sure which suits you best? Compare Annual Multi-Trip vs Single Trip Travel Insurance.
What’s not covered?
As you gear up for your Indian adventure, keep in mind that while World Nomads travel insurance has your back, it doesn’t cover everything. Here’s a breakdown of what’s outside our safety net:
- Pushing adventure limits: Thinking of free solo climbing in the Himalayas? Not all heroic feats are covered. it is not in our list of covered activities or you skipped the adventure add-on, it’s out of bounds.
- Ignoring medical advice: If you overlook your doctor’s recommendations or ignore guidance from our Emergency Medical Assistance Team, that one’s on you.
- Unattended valuables: Left your camera on a café table in Jaipur or your backpack unzipped on a crowded train? If your valuables are stolen, lost, or damaged while unattended, they’re not covered.
- Risky behaviour: Breaking the law, excessive drinking, or taking part in illegal activities? Your coverage doesn’t extend to reckless choices.
- Cold feet? Decided India’s isn’t for you after all? A change of heart isn’t a covered event.
India travel insurance and safety tips
A riot of colours, flavours, and full-throttle experiences, India is as chaotic as it is captivating - and that’s precisely why British nomads have been drawn here for decades. But…for all the good, there’s a lengthy list of aspects you should be aware of before you touchdown:
- India’s food is legendary, but let’s be honest - your stomach might not be ready for it. If you want to eat like a king without spending a week on the throne (aka toilet), make your food choices wisely. Go for busy stalls where locals eat (a high turnover means fresh food). Avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out for hours.
- Tap water? Hard no. Only drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water - and watch out for ice cubes. Rule of thumb: if it’s not cooked or peeled, don’t risk it.
- Pack Western medications for the inevitable. Even if you’re careful, a dodgy stomach can strike. Also, bring rehydration salts, Imodium, and a basic first-aid kit.
- Get your jabs. Ensure you’re current on hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria tablets might be needed in some regions - check with your GP before you go.
- Public transport in India is an experience in itself. If you value your safety and sanity, avoid budget “non-AC” buses and opt for private or Volvo services instead. When taking taxis or rickshaws, always negotiate your fare before getting in. And if your driver suddenly claims that your destination is “closed” or “fully booked”, be firm - it’s often just a tactic to redirect you to a place where they’ll earn a commission.
- You’ll need a visa before arrival - India doesn’t issue visas for UK citizens upon arrival. But don’t stress - the Indian e-Visa makes things easy.
- India is generally safe, but tourists can be easy targets for scams. Stick to official currency exchanges and count your cash before leaving. Book guides through trusted sources—those "friendly locals" might just be leading you to overpriced shops. Pickpocketing is common in crowded markets and train stations, so keep valuables in a money belt or anti-theft bag. Here are some additional Tips for Traveling Around Safely in India.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Protect your trip from unexpected cancellation.
- Explorer Plan: £5,000
- Standard Plan: £3,000
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Abroad Medical Expenses
Take the pain out of medical costs while traveling abroad.
- Explorer Plan: £10 million
- Standard Plan: £5 million
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transport
Expenses included in Emergency Medical limits.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Cover your lost, stolen or damaged gear and tech.
- Explorer Plan: £3,000
- Standard Plan: £1,500
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Medical Expenses
- Baggage & Personal Belongings
- Cancellation
- Trip Curtailment
- Personal Accident
- Loss of Passport or travel documents
- Personal Liability
- Legal Expenses (Personal Liability)
You are not eligible to buy a policy if you travel against medical advice, travel with the intention of receiving medical treatment, or have a terminal illness. World Nomads policies cannot cover claims due to Pre-Existing Medical Conditions (PEMC), regardless of whether the condition is serious or not. You can still purchase a World Nomads policy, but the PEMC exclusion cannot be removed, and you will be responsible for any related costs.
For information on travel insurance providers that offer cover on PEMC, visit Money Helper or call 0800 138 7777.
24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance
If you need medical assistance or emergency medical evacuation our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Wherever you are, we’re here 24/7 to help you in any emergency.
Are you in need of Emergency Medical Assistance right now?
For policies purchased on or after 27 June 2024
+44 (0) 144 444 2021 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
For policies purchased before 27 June 2024:
Phone: +44 (0) 203 093 1750 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
Before your trip, check the latest government advice for any travel alerts for your destination.