This transformation is evident in travel statistics.
As per Cleartrip’s PeekABoo Trends Tracker, pilgrimage sites have seen significant booking growth this year, particularly the Amarnath Yatra, Char Dham circuit, and various festival-related destinations, which are experiencing heightened demand for flights, hotels, and buses.
Among the notable trends, flight bookings by female solo travellers for the Amarnath Yatra increased by 20% year-on-year, and Dwarka saw a 37% uptick in bookings from solo women travellers.
As pilgrimage travel grows more structured and varied, insurance professionals advise that travellers should consider the financial risks associated with these journeys.
Pilgrimages present unique travel risks
In contrast to traditional leisure trips, many pilgrimages entail lengthy road travel, off-the-beaten-path destinations, challenging terrains, unpredictable climate, and physically demanding schedules.
Medical emergencies are among the most prevalent concerns, especially for older adults and those heading to high-altitude spots. Additionally, disruptions due to weather, road blockages, overcrowding, missed connections, and baggage issues can also affect travel itineraries.
“Pilgrimage travel is more vulnerable to interruptions caused by weather, road closures, overcrowding, missed connections, and baggage-related issues. Unlike leisure trips, these journeys typically adhere to fixed schedules and specific routes, making disruptions harder to manage,” stated Ram Patrudu, Co-Founder of Trovity & Mad Over Insurance, an insurtech company based in Hyderabad.
He emphasized that travellers should first evaluate the protections they already have through existing insurance policies before acquiring additional coverage.
Why domestic travel insurance remains an afterthought
While travel insurance is commonly thought of for international trips, domestic travellers often regard it as an optional addition.
“Awareness of travel insurance has improved, yet adoption remains relatively low for domestic travel. Many travellers only consider it if offered during the booking process,” Patrudu mentioned.
He noted that modern travellers increasingly desire services such as emergency assistance and expedited claims support, rather than perceiving insurance solely as financial reimbursement.
What travellers should look for before buying a policy
Experts indicate that the type of insurance needed varies based on destination, travel duration, terrain, weather conditions, and the traveller’s health profile.
Before purchasing a policy, travellers should ascertain whether they already have coverage through health insurance, employer-sponsored benefits, or other financial products. Understanding existing coverage can help identify any protection gaps and avoid buying redundant policies.
Depending on the insurer and the specific policy, travel insurance may include coverage for emergency medical costs, accidental injuries, hospitalizations, emergency evacuations, trip delays, missed connections, and loss of checked baggage or personal items.
However, coverage can differ significantly among insurers and plans. Travellers should thoroughly read the policy details, as exclusions might apply to pre-existing medical conditions, routine medical care, negligence, or activities specifically excluded by the policy. Claims related to trip cancellations or weather disruptions may also be subject to particular conditions and might not apply in every case.
Experts also advise reviewing the claims process, emergency assistance services, and policy exclusions prior to setting off, especially for pilgrimages involving remote areas or elevated routes where access to medical services can be limited.
