Terms & Conditions

1. Definitions

"Saffron Chariot" refers to the company operating under the brand name Saffron Chariot, based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.

"Package" refers to the helicopter yatra package booked, including accommodation, meals, helicopter flights, and darshan services as specified in the booking confirmation.

"Pilgrim" / "Guest" / "Customer" refers to all persons named in the booking.

"Aviation Operator" refers to the DGCA-approved helicopter operator whose services are used to fulfil the package, contracted by Saffron Chariot on the customer's behalf.

2. Booking & Payment

2.1 Confirmation

A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of the advance deposit (25–30% of total package value) and issuance of a written booking confirmation by Saffron Chariot via email or WhatsApp.

2.2 Balance Payment

The remaining balance must be paid no later than 14 days before the departure date. Failure to pay the balance by the due date may result in cancellation of the booking without refund of the advance.

2.3 Accepted Payment Methods

UPI, NEFT/RTGS, bank transfer (India), and international wire transfer (NRI customers). All payments are in Indian Rupees (INR). Credit/debit card payments are subject to applicable processing charges.

2.4 Pricing

Package prices are quoted per person and are inclusive of GST at the applicable rate. Prices are fixed at the time of booking confirmation and are not subject to change after confirmation, except in cases of government-mandated tax or levy changes.

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

The specific inclusions and exclusions of each package are stated in the package description provided at the time of booking. In general:

Included in All Packages

• Return helicopter flights for the specified route
• Hotel accommodation for specified nights (twin/double sharing basis unless stated otherwise)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as stated in the itinerary
• VIP darshan at each dham as specified
• Airport/station pickup and drop at Dehradun
• Palkhi/doli for mobility-impaired pilgrims where applicable
• Uttarakhand portal registration assistance
• Saffron Chariot team support throughout the journey

Not Included

• Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Personal expenses, tips, and souvenirs
• Any medical treatment or hospitalisation costs
• Flights or trains to/from Dehradun
• Any services not explicitly stated in the package confirmation

4. Cancellation

Cancellation charges apply as detailed in our Cancellation Policy, which forms part of these terms and conditions. In summary: cancellations closer to the departure date incur higher charges, with no refund for cancellations within 7 days or no-shows.

5. Weather & Force Majeure

Helicopter operations in the Himalayas are weather-dependent. Saffron Chariot and its aviation operators reserve the right to delay, modify, or cancel any helicopter flight on safety grounds without liability. This includes weather conditions, DGCA advisories, and unforeseen circumstances.

Saffron Chariot is not liable for losses, expenses, or inconvenience arising from weather delays, natural disasters, government orders, temple trust decisions, civil unrest, pandemic restrictions, or any other force majeure event.

We will make reasonable efforts to complete the planned itinerary within available time and weather windows. Where dhams cannot be completed, partial refunds are provided per the Cancellation Policy.

6. Health & Medical

All pilgrims are advised to consult their physician before undertaking the yatra, particularly those with heart conditions, respiratory conditions, diabetes, or any recent surgery.

Pilgrims with pre-existing conditions must disclose these to Saffron Chariot at the time of booking. Saffron Chariot reserves the right to decline service or require a medical certificate (fit-to-fly) for pilgrims with conditions that may pose safety risks.

Saffron Chariot is not liable for any medical emergency, health deterioration, or injury occurring during the yatra. We strongly recommend all pilgrims purchase comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage before departure.

In a medical emergency, our team will provide immediate first aid, supplemental oxygen, and coordinate evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility. Any costs incurred are the responsibility of the pilgrim or their insurer.

7. Liability

Saffron Chariot's total liability to any customer for any claim arising from a booking shall not exceed the total package price paid by that customer.

Saffron Chariot is not liable for: loss of or damage to personal property, injury, illness, death, consequential losses, or any claim arising from actions of third-party service providers (aviation operators, hotels, temple trusts, local transport operators).

By booking, the customer acknowledges that helicopter yatra involves inherent risks including, but not limited to, altitude sickness, adverse weather, and aviation-related risks, and accepts these risks voluntarily.

8. Aviation Terms

All helicopter operations are conducted by DGCA-approved aviation operators. The aviation operator's terms and conditions also apply to the helicopter portions of the journey.

Luggage limits: 5–7 kg per person in the helicopter cabin (soft bags only). Excess luggage must remain at the Dehradun base hotel.

The aviation operator's pilot-in-command has final authority on all flight decisions, including delay, route modification, or cancellation on safety grounds. These decisions are final and binding.

Child policy: Children above 2 years require a separate seat. Children under 2 may travel on a parent's lap subject to aviation operator approval.

9. Pilgrim Conduct

All pilgrims are expected to conduct themselves respectfully at all temple sites, adhering to temple dress codes and customs. Saffron Chariot is not responsible for denial of temple entry due to pilgrim conduct or dress code violations.

Consumption of alcohol is not permitted during the yatra. Any pilgrim found to be intoxicated may be excluded from the group without refund.

Pilgrims must follow the instructions of the Saffron Chariot team regarding safety procedures, luggage limits, and timing. Failure to comply may affect the experience of the group.

10. Disputes

Any dispute arising from a booking shall be first addressed through direct communication with Saffron Chariot. We are committed to resolving all complaints within 7 business days.

If a dispute cannot be resolved amicably, it shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Governing law: Indian law.

11. Contact

For queries regarding these terms:

Saffron Chariot
Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001, India
Email: bookings@saffronchariot.com
Phone: +91 86799 66676