1. Agreement to Terms
By booking a tour with Sterling Experiences or using our website, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. These terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Sterling Experiences. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not book our services or use our website.
2. Booking and Payment Terms
2.1 Booking Process
- All bookings must be made through our official website or authorized representatives
- A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of payment and written confirmation from Sterling Experiences
- Prices are subject to change until booking is confirmed
- All prices are quoted in Indian Rupees (INR) unless otherwise specified
2.2 Payment Schedule
- Advance Payment: 30% of total tour cost required to confirm booking
- Balance Payment: Remaining 70% due 45 days before tour departure
- Late Bookings: Full payment required for bookings made within 45 days of departure
- Payment Methods: Credit/Debit cards, UPI, Net Banking, and Digital Wallets accepted
2.3 Pricing and Taxes
- All prices include GST as applicable
- Prices are per person based on twin sharing accommodation unless specified
- Single supplement charges apply for solo travelers
- Prices may vary based on season, availability, and group size
3. Cancellation and Refund Policy
3.1 Cancellation by Customer
Cancellation charges apply as follows from the date of written cancellation notice:
- More than 60 days: 25% of total tour cost
- 45-60 days: 50% of total tour cost
- 30-44 days: 75% of total tour cost
- Less than 30 days: 100% of total tour cost (no refund)
3.2 Cancellation by Sterling Experiences
- We reserve the right to cancel tours due to insufficient bookings (minimum 4 participants required)
- Cancellation notice will be provided at least 30 days before departure
- Full refund will be provided for cancellations by Sterling Experiences
- Alternative tour dates or experiences may be offered
3.3 Force Majeure Cancellations
In case of cancellations due to circumstances beyond our control (natural disasters, political unrest, pandemic, etc.), we will work with customers to reschedule or provide credit for future travel.
4. Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
4.1 Typically Included
- Accommodation as specified in tour itinerary
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Transportation during the tour
- Professional guide services
- Cultural activities and workshops as specified
- Entry fees to monuments and attractions mentioned
4.2 Typically Excluded
- International/domestic flights to tour starting point
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, shopping)
- Alcoholic beverages unless specified
- Tips and gratuities
- Visa fees and documentation
- Medical expenses and vaccinations
5. Travel Requirements and Responsibilities
5.1 Participant Responsibilities
- Valid passport/ID and necessary visas
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage
- Required vaccinations and health certificates
- Physical fitness appropriate for tour activities
- Compliance with local laws and customs
- Respectful behavior towards local communities
5.2 Age and Health Requirements
- Minimum age varies by tour (typically 12+ for cultural tours)
- Participants must disclose any medical conditions
- Some tours may have physical activity requirements
- Pregnant travelers should consult with medical professionals
6. Itinerary and Service Changes
Sterling Experiences reserves the right to:
- Modify itineraries due to weather, road conditions, or local circumstances
- Substitute hotels or services of similar standard
- Change tour guides when necessary
- Adjust activities based on local availability
Such changes will be made in the best interest of the group and tour quality. No compensation will be provided for minor itinerary adjustments.
7. Liability and Insurance
7.1 Limitation of Liability
Sterling Experiences' liability is limited to the tour cost paid. We are not responsible for:
- Personal injury, illness, or death
- Loss or damage to personal belongings
- Delays or changes in transportation
- Acts of third-party service providers
- Force majeure events
7.2 Insurance Requirement
All participants must have comprehensive travel insurance covering:
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Personal belongings and baggage
- Adventure activities if applicable
8. Conduct and Behavior
Participants are expected to:
- Respect local customs, traditions, and beliefs
- Follow guide instructions and safety guidelines
- Maintain appropriate behavior and language
- Not engage in illegal activities
- Respect other group members and local communities
Sterling Experiences reserves the right to remove participants who violate these standards without refund.
9. Photography and Media
- Participants consent to photography/videography during tours
- Images may be used for promotional purposes
- Participants should respect photography restrictions at cultural sites
- Commercial photography requires prior permission
10. Environmental and Cultural Responsibility
Sterling Experiences is committed to sustainable tourism. Participants are expected to:
- Minimize environmental impact
- Support local communities and economies
- Respect wildlife and natural habitats
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- Engage respectfully with local cultures
11. Complaints and Disputes
- Issues should be reported immediately to tour guides
- Written complaints must be submitted within 30 days of tour completion
- We will investigate and respond within 30 days
- Disputes will be resolved through mediation before legal action
12. Data Protection and Privacy
Personal information is collected and used in accordance with our Privacy Policy. By booking with us, you consent to the collection and use of your information as described in our Privacy Policy.
13. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
These terms are governed by Indian law. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in India. If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining terms remain in effect.
14. Contact Information
For questions about these terms or to make a complaint:
15. Updates to Terms
Sterling Experiences may update these terms at any time. Updated terms will be posted on our website with the revision date. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of updated terms.