Quick Answer
For stays under 6 months, SafetyWing is the simplest option — covers India, $45–80/month, handles emergency care, hospitalisation, and evacuation. For longer stays, Star Health and Niva Bupa offer solid local policies for ₹8,000–20,000/year ($96–240).
Why Healthcare in India Is Different
India's private hospitals — Manipal, Fortis, Apollo, Narayana Health — offer world-class care at a fraction of Western prices. A GP consultation costs ₹300–600 ($3.60–7.20). Specialist visit ₹500–1,500 ($6–18). Emergency room visit ₹2,000–8,000 ($24–96) before treatment.
The catch: private hospitals require upfront payment or an insurer guarantee letter before treatment. That is why you need insurance — not for the cost, but for the logistics.
Option 1: SafetyWing (Best for Short to Medium Stays)
SafetyWing covers emergency medical treatment, surgery, ICU, emergency dental, evacuation, and repatriation. Does not cover pre-existing conditions, routine check-ups, or elective procedures.
Cost: $45.08/month (ages 18–39), $75–100/month (40–59), $150+/month (60+).
Option 2: Local Indian Insurance (Best for Long Stays)
Star Health — plans from ₹8,000–12,000/year ($96–144) for ₹5 lakh sum insured. Network hospitals handle cashless claims directly.
Niva Bupa — strong claim settlement reputation, wide metro network. Comparable pricing.
Recommended Hospitals by City
Bangalore: Manipal, Fortis, Apollo, Narayana Health
Mumbai: Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani, Lilavati, Breach Candy
Delhi: Medanta, Fortis Memorial, Apollo (Sarita Vihar)
Hyderabad: Apollo (Jubilee Hills), Yashoda, Continental
Pre-Arrival Checklist
- Buy SafetyWing before departure
- Save insurer emergency line in your phone
- Note nearest private hospital to your accommodation
- Keep Wise card funded for a ₹50,000 upfront deposit
- Bring 3-month supply of any regular medication
Bottom Line
SafetyWing handles the logistical infrastructure cleanly for most nomad stays. If committing to India long-term, Star Health or Niva Bupa is worth setting up.
Next steps: Best SIM Cards in India | Cost of Living in Bangalore
*Last updated: April 2026*