Terms & Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

Accessing or using any part of the Service signifies your agreement to these Terms. AskHimalaya reserves the right to update these Terms at any time without prior notice.

2. Description of the Service

AskDarj and AskHimalaya are digital travel assistance platforms operated by:

The Service may include:

• AI-powered travel assistance
• Local recommendations and curated information
• Experience discovery
• Transport booking facilitation
• Connections to local guides, drivers, and service providers
• Destination-related content and travel planning

The Service is provided primarily for informational and facilitative purposes. While we strive to keep information accurate, AskDarj and AskHimalaya do not guarantee that all information is complete, accurate, or current.

3. Platform Role

AskHimalaya may facilitate connections between users and independent local service providers, including drivers, guides, hotels, tour operators, and activity providers.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise:

• AskHimalaya does not directly operate third-party services.
• These providers act independently.
• Any service or transaction entered into with such providers is subject to the specific terms applicable to that booking.

4. AI and Information Disclaimer

Parts of the Service may use artificial intelligence and automated systems to generate responses or recommendations. While we aim to provide helpful and accurate information, AI-generated responses may occasionally contain inaccuracies or outdated details.

Users are responsible for independently verifying important information such as:

• transport routes and schedules
• prices and availability
• accommodation details
• permits or local regulations

5. Third-Party References and Services

The Service may reference or link to third-party businesses, services, or platforms. AskDarj and AskHimalaya do not own or control these third-party providers and are not responsible for disputes, losses, or damages arising from interactions with them.

6. User Responsibilities

By using the Service, you agree to:

• use the Service lawfully and responsibly
• not engage in abusive, fraudulent, or harmful conduct
• not attempt to manipulate, disrupt, or exploit the system

AskHimalaya reserves the right to suspend, restrict, or terminate access if misuse or abuse is detected.

7. Bookings, Payments & Service-Specific Terms

Certain services offered through AskHimalaya, including transport bookings, tours, hikes, and experiences, may require advance payment or full payment.

By making a booking, you agree to the specific terms applicable to that service, which may include booking confirmation requirements, payment timelines, cancellation and refund rules, waiting time/delay policies, service inclusions/exclusions, and liability limitations.

7.1 Experiences, Hikes & Activities

• Bookings are confirmed upon successful payment as specified at checkout.
• Cancellation and refund policies will be shown on the relevant experience page.
• Operational responsibility may rest with independent local guides / partners.

7.2 Pickup, Drop-Off & Reserved Transport Bookings

• A non-refundable advance / booking amount is required to confirm transport bookings.
• The remaining balance is payable directly to the assigned transport partner.
• Bookings are confirmed only after advance payment.
• Guests must remain reachable and coordinate at least 24 hours before travel.
• Guests must keep drivers informed about delays.
• Hotel pickup delays beyond 2 hours may attract extra waiting charges starting from ₹100/hour.
• Vehicle capacity and luggage suitability must be reviewed before booking.
• Smoking / drinking inside vehicles is prohibited.
• AskHimalaya acts only as a booking facilitator and is not directly liable for: road closures, weather delays, breakdowns, traffic disruptions, missed trains / flights.

In rare cases where AskHimalaya cannot arrange a driver within a reasonable time, guests may be offered rescheduling, or refund of the advance amount. Full transport booking terms are available on the relevant booking page.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted under applicable law, AskDarj, AskHimalaya, and Kurukulle Software Solutions LLP shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of the Service. Use of the Service is entirely at the user’s own risk.

9. Service Availability and Modifications

AskHimalaya reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any part of the Service without prior notice. No guarantee of uninterrupted or continuous availability is provided.

10. Amendments to Terms

These Terms may be updated periodically to reflect changes in the Service or legal requirements. Continued use of the Service after such changes are published constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms.

11. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms shall be governed by the laws of India. Any disputes arising from the use of the Service shall fall under the jurisdiction of the courts of Darjeeling, West Bengal.