Kashmir Backpacking

Inclusion

• 3AC train travel included for train travellers from Bandra/Ludhiana to Jammu and back.
• Private transport for the entire Kashmir trip — all transfers, sightseeing, and long drives fully taken care of.
• 6–7 nights in premium hotels/traditional houseboats on a 3–4 sharing basis, selected for comfort, cleanliness, and warm local hospitality in Gulmarg, Pahalgam & Srinagar to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
• We provide vegetarian meals throughout the trip — 5 breakfasts & 5 dinners included (Jain option available).
• All entry fees and permits for locations mentioned in the itinerary are included.
• We carry a first aid kit and provide basic medical assistance throughout the trip.
• Your coordinator = vibe curator, problem-solver, games host, hype captain, and your go-to throughout the trip. Please note: Extra mattresses will be provided at all stays to ensure guest comfort.

Exclusion

• Any kind of personal expenses.
• Travel insurance (guests are advised to take insurance for personal safety and belongings).
• Meals during the road journey, lunch on all days, and train meals.
• Any additional costs arising due to roadblocks, weather conditions, snowfall, or any unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the Inclusions section.
• Any adventure or recreational activities not mentioned in the inclusions.
• Charges for local vehicles required during heavy snowfall or restricted road conditions.
• Cost of room heaters, if required. Gulmarg Gondola / cable car tickets (guests are advised to book early for confirmed slots). Check FAQ for How to Book.
• Any loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings is not covered. Guests are strongly advised to carry travel insurance to safeguard against such

Things to carry

• 1 Medium Backpack/1 Medium Trolley Bag – for all clothes and main luggage, 1 Small Day Pack (15–20 L) – for daily sightseeing (water bottle, snacks, camera, essentials, jacket)
• Comfortable shoes with good grip (Trekking/waterproof not compulsory), Slippers or sandals for hotel/homestay use (optional)
• 3–4 T-shirts / full-sleeve top, 3 pairs of comfortable pants , 2 fleece jackets / warm mid-layers, 1 padded or warm winter jacket (mandatory), Thermal innerwear (top & bottom) – 1–2 pairs, Cap / hat for sun protection, Monkey cap / woollen cap (For cold mornings & nights), Raincoat or poncho, 4–5 pairs of socks (at least 2 woollen), Gloves - thermal/warm
• Torch / Headlamp with extra batterie, Goggles (black or anti-snow), Towel, napkin, toiletries, tissues, Camera, valuables (carry at your own risk), Power bank & charging cables, Lock for luggage (optional), Extra shoelace (optional), Small Fevikwik / multipurpose adhesive (optional), Original Government ID + photocopy
• Personal medi

Notes

- BALANCE PAYMENT HAS TO CLEARED ATLEAST 15 DAYS PRIOR TO THE TRIP. UPON FAILING TO PAY, YOUR REGISTERATION WILL BE CANCELLED WITHOUT ANY REFUND OR TRANSFER.

- Age group for the trip is strictly 16yrs - 37yrs only. If people of above or below that age group register in that case 3% will be charged in refund amount.

Arrival & Departure (Srinagar to Srinagar Package)
Pickup: 12:00 PM from Srinagar Airport
Drop: Day 8 post breakfast at Srinagar Airport Any transfers requested outside the scheduled timings will incur additional charges.

Kashmir Winter Travel – Contingency Disclaimer
Please note that Kashmir, especially during the winter season, experiences extreme weather conditions and operates with limited accessibility in certain regions. Many routes—particularly those leading to destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and other mountain areas—are dependent on weather conditions and may be affected by heavy snowfall, road closures, black ice, landslides, or other unforeseen natural events. In the event of such disruptions, the group may be required to halt their journey at the point of obstruction or adjust travel plans for safety reasons. The duration of any delay is unpredictable and completely beyond human control. These situations may lead to changes in the planned itinerary, including delays, route alterations, missed sightseeing, or the inability to reach certain destinations as scheduled. In rare and extreme circumstances, due to weather conditions or limited availability of accommodation—especially during peak winter travel periods—guests may be required to stay at alternate locations or wait in nearby areas until conditions improve. While Zestwanders will make every reasonable effort to manage situations smoothly and prioritize guest safety, we shall not be held responsible for any inconvenience, itinerary changes, delays, or missed experiences caused by weather conditions or other unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.

Backpacking Trip — Not a Luxury Tour
This is a true backpacking experience, designed for adventure seekers who love raw, authentic travel. Expect decent comfort, not luxury. Spiti is an offbeat and rugged destination, so food and accommodation will be simple & basic — that’s the charm of the journey and the essence of real  backpacking.

Flight Information & Booking Policy
Zestwanders packages include land arrangements only. Flight booking is the responsibility of the client (those who are booking Ex Srinagar Package ). If needed, we can help you with flight options or book tickets on your behalf. However, Zestwanders is not responsible for flight delays, cancellations, rescheduling, or refund issues. After paying ₹8,000 as your booking amount to secure your slot, you may: – Book your flights directly, or – Request our assistance. (Full flight payment is required in advance if we book for you.)

Refund & cancellation

We understand that unexpected changes may occur. However, to maintain clarity for all clients, please review the cancellation guidelines carefully. The booking amount paid at the time of reservation is completely non-refundable under all circumstances.

Before 45 Days: 50% refund on the booking amount.

45 – 30 Days: No refund on the booking amount.

30 – 20 Days: 25% refund on the total trip cost.

20 – 10 Days: 10% refund on the total trip cost.

After 10 Days: No refund.

- Cancellation charges are calculated on the total trip cost, not on partial or booking amounts. (Example: If your trip costs ₹25,000 and you paid ₹10,000 as an advance, cancellation within 30 days will still apply on ₹25,000)

- If the trip is cancelled from our end, a minimum 7% administrative deduction will be applied. The remaining amount will be issued as a credit note redeemable on future trips. Cash refunds will not be provided. (This clause does not apply for cancellations caused by situations beyond our control)

- Any cancellation or alteration in the trip or specific locations due to natural calamities, sudden weather issues, strikes, government orders, route closures, or any man-made incidents will not be our liability. Any additional expenses arising from such situations must be borne by the client. Our Trip Captain/Coordinator will not accompany the client in these cases, but we will assist in making necessary arrangements.

- Full payment must be completed 30 days before the trip begins. Pending dues may lead to automatic cancellation without refund.

- Amounts paid are non-transferable, and no credit notes will be issued unless specifically mentioned. No refund, credit, or transfer will be provided if the itinerary or route is changed for safety or operational reasons.

- If a client voluntarily quits the trip for personal reasons (fitness, illness, discomfort, or any other reason), no refund or credit will be issued. Any additional expenses due to returning early will be borne solely by the client. Our Trip Captain/Coordinator will not accompany the client, but necessary assistance for arrangements will be provided.

- If a client is asked to return by the Trip/Trek Coordinator due to low fitness, medical concerns, violation of rules, misbehaviour, harassment, being under heavy influence of alcohol/substances, or engaging in any prohibited activity, no refund or credit will be issued. Any extra expenses arising from the client being sent back will be fully borne by the client. Our Trip Captain/Coordinator will not accompany the client but will help arrange the required transport.

- If the entire group must end the trip after commencement due to severe weather, government restrictions, unexpected circumstances, or any uncontrollable event, no refund or voucher will be issued.

- Extreme Scenarios Clause: Situations such as war, pandemic outbreaks, national emergencies, government-imposed restrictions, or any extreme/uncontrollable circumstances before or during the trip may lead to cancellation. In such cases, no refund or credit voucher will be issued. If a client fails to pay the remaining balance by the due date, the booking may be automatically cancelled without any refund of the booking amount.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

- Clients are solely responsible for their personal belongings throughout the trip. Zestwanders is not liable for any loss, Theft or damage of baggage or valuables.

- Company vehicles provide transportation only to and from the locations mentioned in the itinerary. Any additional travel arranged by us will be chargeable.

- Sightseeing is subject to weather, traffic, delays, breakdowns, client punctuality, seasonal rush, and operational limitations. Zestwanders is not responsible if any sightseeing cannot be completed for such reasons.

- In case of trip extension due to weather or unforeseen situations, clients must pay ₹2,500 per day (cash) directly to the Trip/Trek Coordinator. Any additional expenses caused due to such situations will be borne by the client.

- The itinerary, accommodations, timings, or transport arrangements may be modified due to safety concerns or operational requirements. Trekkers United’s decision will be final.

- Mode of transport (train/bus/vehicle) may change depending on availability, including boarding/dropping points, without prior notice.

- Train ticket bookings start 2 months before the departure dates, so there are chances the tickets will be RAC/ Waiting.

- For train tickets in RAC/Waiting List, Rs 900- Rs 1200 per person will be charged for Tatkal confirmation (approx. 90% success rate).

- Train tickets are pre-booked and may not be in the traveler’s name, as tickets during peak season often sell out 60 days in advance. If you prefer tickets under your own name, you may choose to book your own train tickets or opt for a flight instead.

- All photos/videos captured by Trekkers United are our exclusive property and may be used for promotional purposes. Clients cannot use the content commercially without written permission.

- A valid Government ID is compulsory. Boarding will not be permitted without verification.

- Departure timings are fixed but may vary due to factors such as train delays, flight changes, or external circumstances.

- Trains/Flights are not under our control, even if booked by Trekkers United. Clients are responsible for checking and reconfirming train/flight details and timings. Missing the departure makes the client ineligible for refunds.

- In case of injury, illness, or medical emergency, evacuation/transport may be required. All additional costs must be borne by the client or their family.

- Only one offer or credit can be applied per booking. Multiple offers cannot be combined.

- Zestwanders may remove any client involved in misbehaviour, harassment, illegal activities, or breaking trip rules. No refund or credit will be provided.

- Final Authority & Financial Decision Clause
In any situation, circumstance, or scenario not explicitly covered in these Terms & Conditions — whether arising before, during, or after the trip — Zestwanders reserves the full and final right to take decisions in the interest of safety, operations, logistics, and overall trip management.

This authority includes, but is not limited to, decisions related to itinerary changes, participant movement, continuation or termination of the trip, and financial matters such as refunds, credits, deductions, additional charges, or non-issuance of refunds or vouchers.

All such decisions taken by Zestwanders shall be final and binding on all participants.

Adventure Risk Clause:

Travelling, trekking, and adventure activities involve inherent risks such as weather hazards, natural disasters, altitude sickness, equipment failures, injuries, illness, or life-threatening situations even death. By booking, clients acknowledge these risks and agree that Zestwanders or its Team/Coordinators/Trip Captains are not responsible for any such occurrences.

Clients participate voluntarily, fully aware of the uncertainties involved. Clients must disclose existing medical conditions beforehand. Clients confirm that they are mentally and physically fit for the trip. Trekkers United reserves the right to deny participation (without refund) if someone is deemed unfit for safety reasons.

Clients must follow all safety instructions and maintain environmental discipline (no littering, respect for nature, local culture, etc.).

We strongly recommend that all clients purchase travel insurance. For any scenario not mentioned above, Zestwanders holds full authority to make decisions prioritizing group safety and operational feasibility.