-
All Group ToursFamily Tours
Family Tours
Golden Hours Travels OPC PVT LTD Terms and Conditions
Introduction and Scope of Services and Acceptance of Agreement
Dear Guest/s,
Welcome to Golden Hours Travels! We are dedicated to providing you with a delightful and memorable holiday experience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone, we ask that you read, understand, and agree to the following Terms and Conditions before booking any tour, holiday, or service with us.
By proceeding with a booking, either at a Golden Hours Travels sales office, through a sales partner, on our website, or via our mobile application, you are giving your unqualified consent to these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please do not complete your booking.
Golden Hours Travels acts as a service facilitator, and as a guest, you are required to abide by the policies, rules, regulations, laws, and orders of all destinations and countries you visit.
We believe in a customer-first approach and will always strive to resolve any issues in a timely and friendly manner. The terms outlined here, along with our Privacy Policy, our website, and any other printed material, form the basis of our agreement with you. Please take the time to read, understand, and sign your acceptance of these terms before registering for any of our services.
1.2 Our Role as a Tour Operator
Golden Hours Travels coordinates all tour services and acts as a facilitator to help you enjoy your trip. We carefully select reputable Independent Contractors to provide services such as hotels, airlines, coaches, and restaurants.
While we take great care in this selection, we do not have direct control over the operations of these independent third parties. Therefore, Golden Hours Travels cannot be held responsible for any loss, harm, injury, death, or damage caused by the actions, omissions, or defaults of their employees or management.
By booking a tour with us, you agree to read, understand, and abide by all the terms and conditions outlined in our publications, including this document and our website.
1.3 Communication and Updates
For your convenience, we will send you tour-related updates and instructions via SMS, email, or other forms of communication. It is your responsibility to check your registered email and mobile phone regularly for these important updates from Golden Hours Travels and your booking agent (Our designated staff).
We also advise you to visit our website, https://goldenhourstravels.co.in, for the most current information. Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior notice. By staying updated, you ensure a smoother and more informed travel experience.
1.4 General Provisions
If any part of these Terms and Conditions is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the rest of the provisions will remain in full force and effect.
Throughout this document, words in the masculine gender will also apply to the feminine gender, and the singular form will include the plural, and vice versa.
2.1 These Terms and Conditions will be referred to as the Golden Hours Travels (India & World) Terms and Conditions.
2.2 These terms apply to all tours organised by Golden Hours Travels OPC Private Limited, both within India and worldwide.
2.3 Effective Date and Definitions
These Terms and Conditions are effective as of May 21st, 2025, and will remain in effect until they are modified or amended.
2.4 Definitions
In these Terms and Conditions, the following definitions apply:
We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our publications based on the information available at the time. Maps and other images are included for convenience and are not necessarily to scale or official.
Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to change any information in our brochures, including the tour itinerary, tariff, departure dates, and hotels, without prior notice. This can happen before or after a booking is made, or even after a tour has begun. We will do our best to inform guests of any such changes as soon as possible.
Unless specified, a “city tour” refers to a panoramic view or a photo stop at the mentioned locations. The final day of your tour is the last destination or country listed on your itinerary.
2.5 Booking Your Tour
Booking Confirmation
Your tour is considered booked upon receipt of either:
Booking is processed on a first-come, first-served basis, based on seat availability and the date we receive your payment. Any applicable discounts will be those that are active on the date of your payment. By booking online, you are confirming that you have read and accepted our Terms and Conditions.
Online Booking and Payment
For world tours, you must submit a copy of the first and last two pages of your passport to complete your booking. We use secure technology to protect your personal information, but Golden Hours Travels is not responsible for online booking issues resulting from factors beyond our control, such as software or network errors.
Our online booking services are managed from our Mumbai office, and any disputes related to online bookings will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Mumbai.
Note on Registration: Please note that paying the registration amount only shows your intent to join the tour. It does not entitle you to any services, such as travel tickets or hotel accommodations, until the full tour payment has been received by Golden Hours Travels.
2.6 Travelers Requiring Special Assistance
Our group tours are not designed to provide individualised special services. However, if you or a member of your party is a senior citizen or has a disability, please inform us at the time of registration and provide the necessary documentation. We will make a reasonable effort to accommodate your needs, subject to availability and any additional costs.
Please be aware that most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. A disabled traveller or senior citizen who requires assistance must be accompanied by a qualified companion, and all costs for the companion will be the responsibility of the traveller.
3.1 Coach / Bus Seating: For our regular and merged tours, seats are assigned based on your booking date. Please note that the first four seats (1, 2, 3, and 4) are reserved for our staff, including the Tour Leader/Guide, or are designated as premium seats.
You can book these priority/premium seats for an additional fee, subject to availability. While these seats offer a front-of-the-coach view, we do not guarantee extra space. In smaller vehicles, booking priority is not applicable, and the Tour Leader will allocate seats as needed.
Our policy is strictly no smoking, no alcohol, and no eating inside the vehicles. You are responsible for all your personal belongings and baggage at all times. Golden Hours Travels is not liable for any lost or stolen items. Any damage you cause to the bus, coach, or any other mode of transport must be reimbursed by you to the service provider.
3.2 World Tours: We typically use air-conditioned, luxury coaches. The size of the vehicle will vary depending on the number of guests and the tour itinerary.
3.3 Indian Tours: For tours within India, we arrange various modes of transport, including air-conditioned/non-AC coaches, mini-coaches, jeeps, or taxis. The vehicle type and seating capacity will be determined by the tour itinerary and the number of guests.
Definitions
3.4 ‘Company’ refers to Golden Hours Travels OPC Private Limited, including all of its divisions and brands.
3.5 ‘Itinerary’ is the detailed plan for your journey, including a list of places to visit. All itineraries are subject to change due to a Force Majeure situation.
3.6 Tour Duration
The ‘First day of the tour’ can begin at any time—morning, afternoon, or evening—depending on your mode of transport to the first destination. The same applies to the last day of the tour. A “day” may refer to a full 24-hour period or any part of it.
3.7 Force Majeure
‘Force Majeure’ refers to extraordinary events or circumstances beyond the reasonable control of Golden Hours Travels that prevent us from fulfilling our tour obligations. These include, but are not limited to:
3.8 Group Tours
‘Group Tours’ are tours where multiple Golden Hours Travels families travel together and receive similar services.
3.9 Minimum Group Size
A tour will only proceed if a minimum of 20 guests has booked at least 30 calendar days before the scheduled start date.
If the number of guests falls below 20, the tour may be:
Alternatively, Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel the tour without providing a reason. In such a case, you will be refunded the amount you paid, minus any non-refundable taxes or visa fees already paid to the visa processing centre or consulate. We will inform you of a tour cancellation at least 15 calendar days before the start date via SMS, telephone, or email using the contact information you provided. To avoid delays, please apply for your visa well in advance.
3.9.1 Merger of Tours
Golden Hours Travels may merge tours, either partially or fully, if the minimum guest requirement is not met for a specific tour, or when tours are departing from different locations. In some cases, a speciality tour may be merged with a family tour. Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to make these decisions.
In a merged tour, seats on the coach will be allocated strictly based on the original tour booking date.
3.9.2 Health and Medical Fitness
By booking a tour, you confirm that you are medically fit to travel and are aware of the itinerary. We reserve the right to request a written medical fitness certificate from you before departure.
Guests with pre-existing medical conditions, or those who have recently received medical treatment or been hospitalised, participate in our tours at their own risk. It is your responsibility to provide any medical certificates required by local authorities at your own expense.
In a health emergency, you are solely responsible for arranging and paying for your own medical assistance. Our tour leaders are not medically trained and cannot provide treatment. Their primary duty is to manage tour services for the entire group.
Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel, restrict, or modify a guest’s tour without a refund if a health issue arises.
In the unfortunate event of a guest’s death or arrest, all related expenses, legal procedures, and responsibilities fall to the guest or their family. While we will make every effort to assist, we cannot guarantee it, and all costs will be the responsibility of the family or accompanying guests. Golden Hours Travels and our staff are not liable for these costs. Any arrangements for relatives to travel to the location or for handling legal or other formalities must be made and paid for by the family.
3.9.3 Guests and Visitors
Only individuals who have booked and registered for the tour are permitted to join our activities. Unregistered persons, including friends or family, are not allowed in hotel rooms, restaurants, coaches, or at any sightseeing locations.
3.9.4 Definitions
4.1 These Terms and Conditions apply to all tours and services offered by Golden Hours Travels OPC Pvt Ltd, including:
4.2 Golden Hours Travels holds the final authority on the interpretation of these Terms and Conditions and reserves the right to amend, add, or waive any part of them.
4.3 In the event of an unforeseen situation, such as a Force Majeure event or a change in government policy, Golden Hours Travels may supersede any part of these terms with a valid, enforceable provision.
4.4 If any of these provisions are found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining terms will still be in full effect.
4.5 These Terms and Conditions, along with any other booking-related communications, constitute the full agreement between you and Golden Hours Travels.
4.6 The agreement between you and Golden Hours Travels is not valid until we have received your initial registration amount or deposit.
These Terms and Conditions may also be referred to as Rules and Regulations.
In this document, Golden Hours Travels OPC Pvt Ltd will be referred to as “Golden Hours Travels,” “the Company,” “the organisation,” “we,” “us,” or “our.” The user will be referred to as “Guest/s,” “them,” “they,” “their,” “you,” “your,” “tourist/s,” “traveler/s,” “client/s,” “customer/s,” “pax,” or “passengers.”
Additionally, our website and mobile applications will be collectively referred to as “Website.”
For clarity throughout these terms, the following definitions apply:
7.1 Booking of Tours and Services
When you book a tour or any other service with Golden Hours Travels—whether through our website, mobile app, or sales office—you are entering into a contract with us. This contract is governed by the Terms and Conditions outlined in our online materials, brochures, and booking forms.
By providing your information, consenting to the booking, and making the initial payment, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted these terms. If you are booking on behalf of others, you confirm that you are authorized to do so and that they also agree to these terms.
7.2 Customised Holiday Booking
For a custom holiday, our Travel Advisors will work with you to create a personalized itinerary. To begin this process, a non-refundable Holiday Design Fee (HDF) is required:
This fee includes up to two free amendments to the itinerary and will be applied toward your final booking amount if the tour is confirmed within 20 working days.
7.3 Corporate Tour Booking
For corporate tours, both these Terms and Conditions and the specific Service Contract signed with your organisation will apply. The terms of the Service Contract, signed by your authorised representative, will apply to every member of your tour group.
7.4 Website User Registration
After booking, you can register on our website to access your tour information. When you create a user account, you are responsible for keeping your password and account details confidential. You are also fully responsible for all activities that occur under your account.
If you suspect any unauthorized use of your account or a security breach, you must immediately notify us at goldenhourstravels@co.in through your Travel Advisor. For your security, please ensure you log out of your account at the end of each session. We are not liable for any loss or damage resulting from your failure to follow these security measures.
7.5 Communication with Guests
Golden Hours Travels will communicate with you via email, WhatsApp, SMS, or phone calls using the contact details you provided on your booking form. By providing this information, you agree that any communication sent to these details is considered received by you. It is your responsibility to ensure your contact information is valid and to check your messages regularly.
Please note that we are not a mobile network provider and cannot guarantee the delivery of every message. You agree to indemnify Golden Hours Travels for any action taken by authorities (such as TRAI) as a result of incorrect contact information you provided.
7.6 Physical and Mental Fitness
By booking a tour with us, you confirm that you are physically and mentally fit to travel to your chosen destination. You are responsible for maintaining your health throughout the tour and for carrying any necessary medications and prescriptions.
We reserve the right to decline a booking or remove you from a tour if your health condition is deemed to be a risk to yourself or is causing inconvenience to other travellers. Any expenses you incur due to a health issue during the tour are your sole responsibility.
We also advise that high-altitude locations can be challenging for anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. We strongly recommend that minors, senior citizens, and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition consult their doctor before booking any tour, especially those to high-altitude destinations.
7.7 Mandatory Health Requirements
You are required to comply with all health-related travel regulations for your destination, including but not limited to vaccinations, RT-PCR tests, and health checks upon arrival. These regulations are subject to change, and any costs associated with them are your responsibility.
You must carry all required health certificates or test reports and present them to officials upon request. If a state, country, or service provider (e.g., airline, cruise line) denies you entry due to medical reasons, you will be responsible for all resulting consequences and expenses.
7.8 Travel During Pregnancy
We do not recommend travel for guests who are pregnant. Golden Hours Travels does not offer specialised facilities or medical care for pregnancy, childbirth, or infant care. Guests should be aware of the risks involved in travelling to locations where prompt and adequate medical care might not be available for pregnancy-related emergencies.
8.1 Payment Methods
You can pay for your tour using a variety of digital methods, including Cheque, Demand Draft, NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, UPI (such as BHIM, PhonePe, Gpay, Pay, Razorpay,INB,etc), or other payment apps. All payments should be made to ‘Golden Hours Travels OPC Pvt Ltd’. While we encourage digital payments, we also accept cash in INR as per government guidelines, provided a PAN card is submitted. Please note that we do not accept outstation cheques.
8.2 Convenience Charges
For payments made with a Credit Card, Debit Card, or Online Transfer, a convenience fee of 1.8% of the transaction value (or the actual charge, whichever is higher) will be added. For payments using Amex, Diners, or International Cards, this charge is 2% (or the actual charge, whichever is higher).
8.3 Dynamic Pricing
Our tour prices are dynamic. Guests who book early are more likely to receive the lowest price, subject to availability. Conversely, last-minute bookings may be higher. This is a common practice to encourage early bookings and fill remaining seats. We will not entertain claims for price differences between guests on the same tour.
8.4 Price Adjustments
Tour prices are calculated based on prevailing tariffs for airlines, hotels, transport, and applicable taxes. Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to adjust the tour price to account for increases in taxes, fuel charges, visa fees, or unexpected foreign exchange fluctuations. These additional costs must be paid by the guest before departure.
8.5 Government Taxes and TCS
Government taxes are not included in the base tour price and must be paid separately.
The TCS amount can be claimed back when you file your annual income tax returns. It will be reflected in the Form 26AS of the guest whose name is on the invoice (the Family Head), regardless of who made the payment. Once collected, Golden Hours Travels cannot refund the TCS amount as it is paid directly to the government. TCS is not applicable to corporate bookings that have a TAN (Tax Deduction & Collection Account Number).
8.6 Online Booking Confirmation
If you book a tour online, you must reconfirm and authenticate the information you provided. Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel a booking and forfeit any amount paid if the information provided is found to be misleading.
8.7 Tour Registration and Payment
The registration amount paid at the time of booking is non-refundable and interest-free, as outlined in our Cancellation and Refund Policy. This fee varies by tour, especially for those that require airline or cruise bookings.
Payment of this amount confirms your registration but does not guarantee services like air tickets, visas, or hotel stays until the full tour payment has been received by Golden Hours Travels.
9.1 Passport
9.2 Loss of Passport
9.3 Visa – World Tours
A valid visa is mandatory for international travel. While Golden Hours Travels assists with documentation and submission of visa applications, the final decision to grant a visa rests solely with the embassy or consulate. We have no control over this process and are not responsible for any delays, errors in dates, or refusal of a visa.
Mandatory Documents for Visa:
9.4 Guest Responsibility
You are solely responsible for obtaining all necessary travel documents and statutory clearances, including passports, visas, tickets, and travel insurance. All documents are non-transferable and must be in the name of the passport holder. Please make sure to collect all documents promptly before departure and to have certified copies. We recommend arriving at the airport 3-4 hours before your flight’s departure, as per airline guidelines.
9.5 Photo Identification
All travellers, including children, must carry a valid, original photo ID such as a driver’s license, election card, Aadhaar card, or passport. It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with the specific photo ID requirements of each country you visit, as these can change. You can find the most current information on the official website of the respective country’s consulate.
10.1 Payment and Registration
The registration fee you pay to book your tour is non-refundable and does not accrue interest. The foreign currency portion of the tour cost must be paid before your visa application is processed. The balance of your tour payment is due 45 days before departure. Your booking will only be confirmed once the initial registration or full payment has been received.
If a billing error occurs, we reserve the right to re-invoice you. A charge of ₹500 will be applied for each dishonoured cheque. We also reserve the right to take legal action for dishonoured cheques as deemed necessary.
10.2 Travel Loans
Golden Hours Travels accepts payments from banks or financial institutions through travel loans, provided that the payment terms meet our requirements. However, we are not responsible for the approval, rejection, or repayment of any loans.
10.3 Tour Tariff
The tour price is based on rates at the time of quotation and may change due to fluctuations in taxes, fuel costs, or foreign exchange rates. We reserve the right to adjust the tour tariff, and any increase must be paid by you before departure.
Payments made after the due date will be charged an interest rate of 18% per annum. All tour tariffs are exclusive of taxes. Please note that prices, services, and inclusions can vary by product and season, and are not intended for universal comparison.
10.4 Discounts and Benefits
Discounts and benefits are offered for a limited number of seats and specific tours and dates. To be eligible for a discount, you must pay the full registration amount at the time of booking, and all subsequent payments must be made on time (at least 45 days before departure).
Discounts are valid for guests aged two years and older on World Tours and five years and older on Indian Tours. We reserve the right to change or withdraw any discounts without prior notice.
10.5 Foreign Exchange
For your convenience, we can facilitate foreign exchange through an authorised money changer. To use this service, you must submit the required documentation (e.g., A2 form, passport copy, PAN copy) and make the payment in INR at the prevailing exchange rate at least 45 days before departure. Payments should be made to “Golden Hours Travels OPC PVT LTD” via local clearing cheque, demand draft, or bank transfer. An additional service charge will apply to payments made by credit/debit card or direct foreign currency deposits, as per our company policy.
10.6 Airlines
Airlines are solely responsible for issues such as overbooked flights, lost baggage, flight delays, schedule changes, or denied boarding. Golden Hours Travels is not liable for any claims resulting from these issues.
For group bookings, seat allocation is at the airline’s discretion. If you miss or are delayed by a flight, you are responsible for any additional costs incurred. You are free to book your own tickets; however, any refunds will be subject to our contract with the airline. Once tickets are issued per your request, we are not responsible for rebooking or for guests who join the group late.
Airline policies regarding booking, cancellation, luggage, and meals apply to your travel. Any increase in airfare, airport taxes, or fuel surcharges after your registration must be paid by you.
Our tours offer a preset menu, which may include both vegetarian and a few non-vegetarian options. We cannot provide special meals or diets for individual guests. In some locations, only vegetarian food may be available. For infants, we generally provide packed milk, plain dal, and rice; any other food must be arranged and paid for by the guest. We do not provide meals at airports or on flights. We reserve the right to change meal arrangements or the menu without prior notice, and no complaints or refund claims regarding meals will be entertained.
11.2 Tours Not Originating from Mumbai:
Our air-to-air tour prices are based on departure from Mumbai. If you are flying from another city, you must cover the full airfare and ensure you arrive at the first destination according to the itinerary. All additional expenses, including airport transfers, hotel stays, and meals, will be your responsibility.
11.3 Reimbursement to Golden Hours Travels:
You agree to reimburse Golden Hours Travels immediately for any money we spend on your behalf for any reason, including legal requirements or a force majeure situation.
12.1 Direct Bank Payments:
If you make a payment directly to our bank account via net banking, a payment gateway, or cheque, you must inform us within 24 hours and provide valid proof of payment via email or physical copy. A receipt will only be issued after you notify us.
12.2 Registration Amount:
The registration amount for a tour or package is 50% of the net tour price and must be paid within three days of booking.
12.3 Payment Deadlines and Cancellations:
Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel your booking and forfeit your payment if the full tour price is not paid 45 days before departure. For the Antarctica Tour, full payment is due 90 days before departure.
12.4 Customised Holidays:
For customised holidays, you must pay the full cost of the air ticket and a minimum of 20% of the land package cost to confirm your booking. We may cancel your booking without notice if payment is not made by the deadline.
12.5 Cheque Dishonour Charges:
If a cheque you provide is dishonoured, you will be charged INR 150 + 18% GST. We do not currently accept online payments via international credit/debit cards or other international transaction methods. Please contact our team for assistance with these payment methods.
12.6 Security and Confidentiality:
You must never share confidential information like your credit card number, CVV, or passwords with anyone, including our employees or sales partners. We are not responsible for any losses you incur from sharing this information.
12.7 Use of Funds:
All money you pay to Golden Hours Travels becomes our property and is used to pay our suppliers and cover our operational costs. You agree that these funds will not be held by us on your behalf.
13.1 General Inclusions:
Our group tours typically include:
This is an illustrative list, and specific inclusions for your tour are detailed in your itinerary.
13.2 General Exclusions:
The tour price generally does not include:
13.3 Upgrades:
Any upgrades, such as to first class, business class, or premium economy, as well as seat selection or room category changes, are not included in the tour price and must be paid for separately.
Travel Loan
Credit Card EMI
General Discount Policy
Discounts, savings, and other benefits on our tours are offered at the sole discretion of Golden Hours Travels. We define the terms of all discounts, including validity periods, amounts, and eligibility (based on booking date, age, or group size).
Eligibility for Discounts
If you fail to meet the conditions of a discount—for example, by not making a full payment on time or not submitting documents by the deadline—the discount will be revoked, and your tour will be re-priced at the standard rate.
Complimentary Services
The provision of any complimentary services or items is at the company’s sole discretion. We reserve the right to change or discontinue these offerings at any time. Any complimentary snacks provided are prepared by third-party vendors. Golden Hours Travels is a facilitator and is not responsible for any defects or damages related to these items.
“Free Experience” Promotions
To encourage early bookings, we may offer a “free experience” on selected tours. This benefit is available to guests who book within a specific promotional timeframe. If you are not eligible for this offer, you may be able to purchase the experience separately, subject to availability. Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel a “free experience” if the number of eligible guests falls below the minimum required to operate it.
For international tours, the tour price consists of both an Indian Rupee component and a Foreign Currency (Forex) component. The Forex part must be paid from the traveller’s Basic Travel Quota (BTQ) at the prevailing Rate of Exchange (ROE).
You have several options to pay for the Forex component:
Required Documents for Booking
Photo Identification
17.5 Travel Insurance
We require all guests traveling on our tours, both domestic and international, to have travel insurance. For international tours, insurance is included for guests under 59 years old. Guests aged 59 and above must pay the difference in premium. This policy provides limited coverage for issues like lost baggage, flight delays, and medical emergencies. Please note that some adventure activities may not be covered.
17.6 Foreign Nationals and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
17.7 Minors
To ensure the safety and protection of children, most countries have strict regulations for minors traveling.
17.8 Immigration
A valid visa only grants you permission to arrive at a country’s immigration checkpoint. The final decision to grant or deny entry rests with the country’s immigration authorities.
We make every effort to follow the original tour itinerary. However, the itinerary provided at the time of booking is based on information available at that time and may be subject to change due to various factors.
A Joining and Leaving (J/L) or Ex Destination Guest is a traveller who joins a Golden Hours Travels group tour directly at the destination. These guests do not use our services for visas, insurance, or the primary air ticket to the tour’s starting point. They also leave the tour from the final destination to return home on their own.
A Deviation Guest is a traveller who books a group tour but chooses to alter the itinerary either before (pre-deviation) or after (post-deviation) the scheduled tour dates.
Golden Hours Travels offers the option to extend your trip with a Post-Tour Holiday after your scheduled group tour. This can be in the same city, country, or a new destination of your choice.
General
Baggage
In-flight Seating
Airline Credit Points
In-flight Meals
22.6 Airport Services
Many airports offer special services like lounge access or personal assistants (e.g., Pranaam Guest Services) for an extra fee. If you wish to use these, please let your Travel Advisor know so we can pre-book them. Wheelchair assistance for seniors or guests with physical challenges is also available and is often free if booked in advance, subject to availability.
We strongly advise you to travel light and avoid carrying valuables. You are solely responsible for your baggage and personal belongings, including mobile phones, cameras, jewellery, passports, visas, tickets, and currency. Please do not leave your items unattended. We recommend using digital payment systems like forex cards or credit cards.
Golden Hours Travels and its representatives are not responsible for any loss, theft, damage, or accidents involving your personal belongings at any point during your tour.
Our tours use a variety of vehicles, including large coaches, mini coaches, tempo travellers, and cars, depending on the tour type, itinerary, road conditions, and group size. The vehicle type is subject to change based on operational needs.
If a vehicle breaks down or its air conditioning fails during a tour, we will find a solution as quickly as possible. Please note that Golden Hours Travels is not responsible for mechanical failures and cannot provide compensation.
Guests are responsible for the upkeep of the vehicle. If you cause any damage to the interior or exterior of the coach, you will be required to pay for the repairs directly to the coach company.
We are not liable for any refunds for missed sightseeing due to unforeseen circumstances like road closures, landslides, traffic, or public demonstrations.
Cruises
Our cruise tours typically include inside staterooms, porthole cabins, or ocean-view cabins, as specified in your itinerary.
Rail Travel
Please remember that cruise and rail companies are independent organisations, and their terms and conditions apply in addition to those of Golden Hours Travels.
Our cancellation policy is in place because tour services are booked months in advance. Cancelling a tour can result in the forfeiture of deposits and payments made to our suppliers. When you cancel, cancellation charges will apply as specified below.
This policy applies to all tours and services offered by Golden Hours Travels and is in addition to the terms and conditions of any third-party suppliers (e.g., airlines, hotels, etc.).
To cancel a booking, you must submit a written request via email to goldenhourstravels.co.in from your registered email address. Once a booking is canceled, it cannot be reinstated. Any rebooking will be considered a new booking and may incur additional charges.
27.6 Types of Cancellations
If you cancel your tour for any personal reason (e.g., illness, family emergency, non-sanction of leave), the date we receive your cancellation email will be the date of cancellation, and the corresponding charges will apply.
Golden Hours Travels may need to postpone or reschedule a tour due to a force majeure event, such as a natural disaster, epidemic, or political unrest, or other uncontrollable factors like airline changes.
We reserve the right to add or remove sightseeing locations or other services to improve the tour or respond to unforeseen circumstances. You cannot cancel your tour based on these changes.
If your visa is rejected or delayed, your booking will be automatically canceled without further notice from us.
Deemed Cancellations
You must pay the full tour price at least 45 days before departure (or 90 days for the Antarctica Tour). If we do not receive the payment on time, Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to cancel your booking without notice and forfeit any amount you’ve already paid. Our cancellation notice date will be treated as the cancellation date, and the standard cancellation fees will apply.
If you fail to join the tour on the first day, it will be considered a ‘No Show,’ which results in a deemed cancellation with no refund. All services will be canceled, and a 100% cancellation fee will apply unless you inform us in advance that you plan to join the tour at a later point at your own expense.
If you choose to leave a tour for any personal reason, it is considered a deemed cancellation with no refund. While our team can help you book the necessary services for your return, you must pay for them immediately and in advance.
For single travelers on specific tours (like HLC, HTC, Women’s Special, etc.), Golden Hours Travels guarantees a room partner to help you avoid single occupancy charges. On regular tours, you will be charged a single occupancy fee. If we find you a room partner of the same gender for the entire tour, this fee will be refunded within 10 working days after the tour ends. However, if your room-sharing partner cancels, the single occupancy charge will not be refunded.
The following cancellation fees are a percentage of the net tour price per person, based on when you cancel.
Cancellation received number of days before tour departure | Cancellation fee applicable on Net Tour Price (per person) | ||||
· India, Excluding Andaman | · Andaman Bhutan
| · Asia excluding India, Nepal, Bhutan & Japan, China, Korea & Taiwan | · Europe, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Japan China, Korea, Taiwan | · International Tours with cruises including Antarctica | |
More than 121 days | 10% | 10% | 10% | 10% | 10% |
D- 91 to 120 | 15% | 15% | 15% | 15% | 15% |
D -61 to 90 | 20% | 20% | 20% | 20% | 30% |
D-46 to 60 | 30% | 30% | 30% | 30% | 55% |
D- 31 to 45 | 40% | 50% | 40% | 50% | 65% |
D-16 to 30 | 50% | 75% | 50% | 75% | 75% |
D- 6 to 15 | 75% | 85% | 75% | 85% | 85% |
D – 5 & On Tour | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
These charges cover various direct and indirect expenses for tour preparation and operation. Golden Hours Travels is not obligated to provide a detailed breakdown of these fees. Any eligible refund will be processed within 10 working days of receiving your final cancellation confirmation.
We reserve the right to cancel any tour for operational reasons or if there are not enough guests to run the tour. In such cases, we will notify you by email, phone, or SMS.
Golden Hours Travels reserves the right to deny or cancel any booking without providing a reason. This allows us to maintain a suitable and safe group composition for all tours.
Additionally, we reserve the right to remove any guest from a tour if they misbehave or create a nuisance that disrupts fellow passengers, the Tour Manager, driver, or local residents. In such cases, the guest must arrange and pay for their own return travel, and no refund will be provided.
If you wish to transfer your booking to a new tour, your original booking will be treated as a cancellation. You must make a new booking for the new tour at its current price and with its applicable discounts. The standard cancellation charges will apply to your original tour.
Golden Hours Travels may merge two or more tours for operational reasons, such as inadequate guest participation. In such cases, seat allocation on the coach will be based on the booking date priority of the combined tours.
Golden Hours Travels has the final say on the amount of any refund for cancellations, transfers, or amendments. Refunds are calculated based on factors like the cancellation date, tour capacity, and the cancellation policies of our suppliers (airlines, hotels, etc.).
If your tour price includes a visa fee, but the consulate requires you to pay it directly, the visa fee will be deducted from your total or refunded to you after you provide the payment receipt. If a tour is rescheduled and you already have a visa, you are responsible for obtaining a new visa for the new dates at your own cost.
The accommodation provided for your tour depends on the category you’ve booked. This may include resorts, hotels, houseboats, tents, camps, dormitories, cruises, or even trains. The specific location of your accommodation is based on the tour program.
Room Type and Category
Rooms are typically twin/double or single-bedded. If an extra bed is needed, it is usually a mattress placed on the floor. You can upgrade your room to a suite, family room, or a specific view room for an additional cost, subject to availability.
Check-In and Check-Out Time
Standard hotel policy is a check-in time of 3 p.m. and a check-out time of 10 a.m. Our itineraries are planned accordingly. If we arrive at a destination early, we will typically proceed with sightseeing before checking in. If you wish to check in early or check out late, you can request this directly with the hotel and pay any additional charges, subject to their availability.
Some hotels may require a credit card or security deposit at check-in, which will be refunded upon check-out, provided no services have been used or damages incurred.
Room Sharing
If you are a single guest sharing a room, you must abide by our room-sharing policy. Any disputes, misunderstandings, or damage to personal items or hotel property between you and your roommate are your responsibility to resolve. Golden Hours Travels is not responsible for these issues. If a room-sharing partner exhibits harmful or inappropriate behavior, they may be required to take a separate room immediately and pay the single occupancy charge.
Children Sharing Rooms
For safety reasons, most hotels do not allow four people in a single room. We recommend that a family of three book a double room with an extra mattress, and a family of four book two separate rooms. In a family of four, the child may need to pay the adult tour price.
Property Damage
You are responsible for any damages you cause to hotel rooms or other properties and must pay the charges immediately. If you notice any pre-existing damage, you must report it to the hotel staff or your Tour Manager right away.
Accommodation Facilities
Facilities like parking, restaurants, gyms, pools, laundry, Wi-Fi, and mini-bars vary by property and tour type. These facilities may or may not be complimentary, and any charges incurred from their use must be paid directly to the hotel. We are not liable for any service disruptions or unprofessional staff behaviour, as these are outside our control. Please be mindful of any local rules on conserving water, electricity, or air conditioning.
We carefully select hotels in convenient locations on your behalf, providing standard twin-sharing rooms. A third bed is usually a rollaway mattress. Triple-sharing rooms are limited, and a family of four will often be given two rooms, which may require the child to pay the adult tour price. Air conditioning, heating, and other facilities depend on factors like climate and local systems. Heaters and air conditioning at hill stations may be an extra charge.
When you’re staying in natural environments like tents, camps, or resorts near forests or beaches, it’s common to see insects, small animals, and birds. This is a normal part of life in these locations and should not be considered a sign of uncleanliness.
Meals on our tours are provided as specified in your itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). These are pre-set menus that mainly feature Indian cuisine, with some local or international options depending on the destination. Indian meals typically include dal, rice, roti, two vegetable dishes, one non-vegetarian item, salad, and a dessert.
During our journeys, we typically do not serve non-vegetarian food. We select restaurants for en-route lunch stops based on food quality, hygiene, and facilities, but we do not have direct control over their operations. Restaurant managers are responsible for seating arrangements, which depend on the time slot, group size, and restaurant infrastructure.
Our Tour Managers are dedicated to making your tour enjoyable and safe. They accompany the group from the first day to the last. For the best experience, we strongly advise you to follow their instructions on the tour schedule, safety, what to carry, and local customs. We are not responsible for any consequences that result from ignoring or overriding their instructions.
38.6-38.8: Tour Manager Communication and Limitations
Our Tour Managers primarily communicate in Hindi and English. On international tours, local guides and staff also speak English. We assume all guests are conversant in these languages, but our Tour Managers will do their best to help those who are not.
Please be aware that Tour Managers cannot change or assist with the following:
Tour Managers are bound by their contract with Golden Hours Travels and are expected to provide high-quality service. However, we are only liable for actions taken by them that are directly related to our tours. We advise you not to engage in any personal transactions, financial or otherwise, with a Tour Manager.
Shopping is a popular part of any tour. While on tour, you are responsible for checking the price, quality, and details of any items you buy. Golden Hours Travels does not endorse any specific shops or vendors and is not responsible for any purchases you make. You may encounter souvenir shops or galleries at sightseeing locations, but there is no obligation to buy anything. When shopping, please be mindful of VAT refunds, baggage allowances, and any potential customs duties or shipping costs.
Golden Hours Travels offers gift vouchers for purchase and as promotional benefits.
These vouchers are subject to the following terms:
Golden Hours Travels welcomes everyone on our tours. However, guests should be both mentally and physically fit to travel. We recommend consulting a physician before your trip. Guests with disabilities should check the available facilities at their destination and must be accompanied by a family member.
Accuracy and Authenticity of Information
When you provide us with any personal or financial information, you must ensure it is accurate, true, current, and complete in all respects. Golden Hours Travels relies on this information to proceed with all tour formalities. If you notice any incorrect details on your booking form, you must notify your Travel Advisor and get it corrected within 24 hours. Failure to do so may lead to costly amendments or tour cancellation, and you will be responsible for all associated expenses. The details on your booking form are crucial, as all tour arrangements are based on them. Any errors can lead to significant losses. Please verify and reconfirm all details on your booking form. If you book through a sales office or partner, you must verify the booking by confirming you have received a call and an email/SMS from Golden Hours Travels immediately after booking.
Documentation and Punctuality
You must submit all necessary documents for booking and collect them from us before the tour, following the specified timelines. While on tour, you must carry all original documents, such as your Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, visa, and air ticket, as well as photocopies for emergencies.
It’s crucial to follow your Tour Manager’s instructions and be punctual. Any missed sightseeing or services due to your delay are your sole responsibility, and you will have to bear any related expenses.
Tour Selection and Conduct
Please choose a tour, whether a group tour or a customised holiday, that aligns with your interests and expectations. Group tours have a pre-set itinerary and services, while customized holidays offer more flexibility. Customised holidays do not include a Tour Manager, but our local associates and virtual assistance will ensure a smooth trip. If you prefer a Tour Manager on a customised holiday, you can request one for an additional fee, subject to availability.
You are expected to behave appropriately on a group tour. Any abusive or aggressive behaviour toward fellow travellers, our staff, or associates may lead to your booking being cancelled or your removal from the tour without a refund or compensation.
Liability and Risk
You must adhere to all immigration, customs, and government laws. Carrying illegal or restricted items like narcotic drugs or weapons will result in immediate tour discontinuation and may lead to legal action.
During our tours, you may encounter risks beyond our control, such as rough terrain, undeveloped areas, varying levels of sanitation, and political unrest. By participating in the tour, you acknowledge and accept these risks.
You agree not to hold Golden Hours Travels, its affiliates, or its personnel liable for any bodily injury, death, or property loss. In case of an accident or incident, you are responsible for communicating directly with your insurance company to handle any claims.
Financial Responsibility
We advise you to travel light, as airlines, cruises, and trains have strict baggage policies. You are responsible for carrying your own bags and for paying any porterage fees or tips directly to service providers. Tipping for services is customary in most parts of the world.
You are responsible for any damage you cause to hotel property, vehicles, or attractions. Any expenses or penalties must be paid immediately.
We include most services in the tour price, but you should carry extra money for personal expenses, shopping, optional excursions, and emergencies.
As a travel facilitator, Golden Hours Travels coordinates with independent service providers like airlines, hotels, and transporters. While we take every precaution to ensure your tour runs smoothly, we have no control over their operations. Therefore, we are not responsible for any issues, errors, or negligence on the part of these third-party providers.
We are also not liable for providing or ensuring the quality of medical care in an emergency. Any assistance we provide in a difficult situation is a gesture of goodwill and does not constitute an admission of liability.
We reserve the right to correct any pricing errors and will re-invoice you. If you disagree and wish to cancel, you must do so within 48 hours to receive a refund of your advance payment within 10 working days.
We are not liable if a featured celebrity or founder is unable to join a tour due to unforeseen circumstances. If you withdraw from a tour for any reason, our standard cancellation policy will apply, and we are not liable for any losses to your job or business.
Golden Hours Travels Website
Our website is for informational purposes only. While we try to keep the content accurate, we do not guarantee that it is always complete or free of errors. Maps and photos are for reference only and are not to scale. Please read all information carefully before booking.
When you register on our website, you are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your password. We reserve the right to terminate your account if we detect any misuse.
Our website may contain links to third-party sites. These links are for your convenience, and we are not responsible for their content or services. You use these links at your own risk.
All content on our website is our intellectual property. You may not copy, modify, or use it for commercial purposes without our permission. Unauthorized access or malicious activity on our website is a criminal offense and will lead to legal action.
Copyright, Trademarks, and Privacy
All intellectual property on our website, including logos and slogans, belongs to Golden Hours Travels. You do not have the right to use this content.
We collect your personal information to process your booking and may share it with third parties as necessary. By booking a tour, you consent to this. We may also use your testimonials, photos, or social media posts for promotional purposes without further consent. All information concerning our company and our guests is confidential.
General Terms and Conditions
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about your tour, payments, refunds, our website, or these Terms and Conditions, please feel free to reach out to us.
You can contact us via:
+919136727235
IATA accredited Company