Terms & Conditions
At Meluha Expeditions, we design every journey with care, combining deep local knowledge with a commitment to authentic, responsible travel. Before booking a tour with us, please read these Terms & Conditions carefully. By making a booking, you agree to comply with the terms outlined below.
For questions or clarifications, contact us at info@meluhaexpeditions.com
General booking terms
A tour is confirmed upon receipt of a 30% advance payment, which enables us to begin logistical arrangements, block accommodation, secure permits, and reserve guide and transport services.
The remaining 70% balance must be paid 70 days prior to the tour start date, at which point we will finalise all payments to our partners and service providers.
Meluha Expeditions reserves the right to make necessary changes to group departures, tour pricing, itineraries, accommodation, meal plans, transport, or other inclusions due to operational, safety, or local conditions. Guests will be informed promptly, and any changes will be made without compromising the overall quality of the experience.
Pricing & payment
Tour prices are quoted in USD.
Any bank charges or intermediary transaction fees are to be borne by the guest, ensuring the full tour amount is received by Meluha Expeditions.
Payments can be made via:
- Direct bank transfer (SWIFT / NEFT / IMPS)
- Online platforms such as Wise (TransferWise) or PayPal
- Debit or credit card via a secure payment link (a 4% surcharge applies for credit card payments)
A proforma invoice will be issued for both the advance and final payment. Receipt confirmation by email constitutes proof of booking. Cash payments are discouraged but may be accepted in exceptional or last-minute circumstances.
Cancellation & refund policy
We understand that plans can change. The following refund schedule applies to cancellations made in writing to info@meluhaexpeditions.com:
| Cancellation Notice | Refund |
|---|---|
| 90+ days before tour | 80% refund (20% administrative charge retained) |
| 70–90 days | 60% refund |
| 45–70 days | 35% refund |
| 30–45 days | 15% refund |
| Less than 30 days | No refund |
Rescheduling: Tours may be rescheduled to a future date within 12 months at no additional cost, provided written notice is given at least 90 days before the original departure date. Rescheduling within 90 days, or to a date beyond 12 months, may incur additional charges of 10–20% depending on the tour.
Exceptions may be considered at our discretion in the genuine interest of our guests.
Permits & documentation
Several destinations in our portfolio — including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Spiti, and other restricted or protected areas — require special permits such as Inner Line Permits (ILP) or Restricted Area Permits (RAP).
- It is the guest’s responsibility to provide accurate passport, visa, and personal details in a timely manner to enable permit processing.
- RAP applications for foreign nationals typically require 4–6 weeks of advance processing time. Delays caused by incomplete or late submission of documents are not the responsibility of Meluha Expeditions.
- Meluha Expeditions will facilitate permit applications on behalf of guests where possible, but cannot guarantee permit approval in all cases. In the event of a permit refusal beyond our control, we will work with guests to find suitable alternatives.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all guests and is not included in the tour price. We advise comprehensive coverage including:
- Medical expenses and hospitalisation
- Emergency evacuation (including high-altitude evacuation by helicopter)
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Loss of baggage or personal belongings
- Personal liability and accidents
For treks and expeditions at altitude, guests should ensure their policy explicitly covers high-altitude trekking activities.
Health, Fitness & Responsibility
Each tour carries a clearly indicated physical rating. Guests are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit and medically suited for the activities involved. We recommend consulting a physician before undertaking any high-altitude or strenuous itinerary.
Guests must disclose any relevant medical conditions, allergies, or dietary requirements prior to booking. Meluha Expeditions will make reasonable efforts to accommodate these, but cannot guarantee specific services at remote destinations where resources are limited.
Guests are expected to follow the guidance of their guide or expedition leader at all times, particularly regarding safety, altitude acclimatisation, and local protocols.
Liability & disclaimer
Meluha Expeditions curates itineraries based on thorough research, local expertise, and ground experience. However, the impression and experience of any journey is inherently personal and may vary between individuals.
We work with trusted accommodation, transport, and activity partners but do not have direct legal control over third-party service providers. Meluha Expeditions cannot be held responsible for any unfavourable acts or omissions on the part of hotels, transporters, or other third parties.
We are not liable for events beyond our control, including but not limited to: political unrest, natural disasters, road closures, extreme weather, epidemics, permit delays, or any other force majeure circumstances. Guests are encouraged to monitor travel advisories for their destination prior to departure.
Changes to Itineraries
Adventure travel in India’s mountains, forests, and remote regions requires flexibility. Meluha Expeditions reserves the right to modify routes, accommodation, or activities if required for reasons of safety, weather, road conditions, or local circumstances. Where material changes are necessary, guests will be informed as soon as possible and offered suitable alternatives.
Responsible travel
Meluha Expeditions is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism. Guests are expected to respect local cultures, wildlife, and environments throughout their journey. This includes following Leave No Trace principles on treks, adhering to wildlife viewing guidelines in protected areas, and treating local communities and their customs with sensitivity and respect.
Data protection & GDPR
Personal data collected during the booking or enquiry process is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy. By booking a tour, guests consent to the use of their personal information for tour coordination, communication, payment processing, and — where opted in — promotional purposes. We comply with GDPR (EU & UK), BDSG, and applicable Indian data protection standards.
Governing law
Meluha Expeditions operates under the laws of the Republic of India. Any disputes arising from bookings or services will be subject to the jurisdiction of Indian courts. Guests from the EU or UK retain any consumer rights afforded to them under applicable law in their country of residence.
Complaints or grievances may be directed to info@meluhaexpeditions.com. We are committed to resolving any concerns promptly and fairly.
Amendments to these terms
Meluha Expeditions reserves the right to update these Terms & Conditions from time to time. The version in effect at the time of booking will apply. Material changes will be communicated via email or a notice on our website.
