Kashmir Holidays | Houseboat Experience

Kashmont Terms and Conditions

These terms and conditions outline the expectations and policies for travel packages organized by Kashmont. By booking with us, you agree to abide by the following conditions.

1. Check-in and Check-out Policy

Standard check-in time at most hotels is 2:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Requests for early check-in or late check-out are subject to the discretion of the hotel and may incur additional charges.

2. Air-Conditioning in Vehicles

Please note that air-conditioning in vehicles will be switched off during uphill drives and at other times, as deemed necessary by the driver. This is entirely at the driver’s discretion for safety and optimal vehicle performance.

3. Itinerary and Transportation

The itinerary for your trip is fixed and cannot be modified once finalized. Transportation will be provided as per the pre-arranged schedule and itinerary and will not be available for personal use beyond this.

4. Hotel Availability and Alternative Arrangements

In the event that the hotels listed in your itinerary are unavailable at the time of booking, Kashmont will arrange alternative accommodation of a similar standard and quality. Your comfort and satisfaction are our priority.

5. Availability of Airline Seats and Hotel Rooms

All airline seats and hotel rooms are subject to availability at the time of booking. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred options.

6. Non-Operational Paid Activities

In case any paid activity becomes non-operational due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather conditions, technical issues), Kashmont will process a refund within 30 days of the activity being canceled. However, for activities that are complimentary and not charged to Kashmont or the guest, no refunds will be processed if they do not occur.

7. Weather-Dependent Activities

Activities such as the Gondola Ride and Shikara Ride are subject to weather conditions. If these activities are canceled due to adverse weather or maintenance, Kashmont will provide a full refund for the activity.

8. Air-Conditioning in Hotel Rooms

Given Kashmir's naturally cool climate, many hotels do not have air-conditioning in the rooms. Should you require an air-conditioned room, please inform your Kashmont representative ahead of time. This request is subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

9. Room Heaters and Traditional Heating in Houseboats

Room heaters can be provided upon request in hotels, and they are typically available on a direct payment basis. For stays in traditional houseboats, guests may request Bukhari (a traditional Kashmiri heater) for which a separate charge will be applied. Payment for these services must be made directly at the location. Please note that heaters are generally available for a fixed time period each day.

10. Hot Water Supply During Winters

During the peak winter season, the supply of hot water in hotels may be limited or provided only during specific hours due to extreme cold conditions.

11. Houseboat Stays: Experience and Limitations

Accommodation in houseboats in Kashmir is offered primarily for their cultural and experiential value. However, please be aware that houseboats may face certain limitations compared to regular hotels, including restricted transportation to and from the houseboat, a limited food menu, intermittent power, and water supply issues.

12. Transportation in Gulmarg and Pahalgam

In Gulmarg, the local horseman union prohibits vehicles from dropping off or picking up guests at the Gondola station. Additionally, sightseeing tours in the area may be restricted by the union. Similarly, in Pahalgam, certain areas such as Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and Betaab Valley are not part of the standard itinerary unless specifically included, due to local transportation union restrictions.

13. Visiting Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari

You will have an hour to enjoy the stunning Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari in Pahalgam. If you wish to spend more time exploring these areas, you may need to pay the additional amount directly to the local driver or taxi union as these areas are restricted by local transport regulations.

14. Local Union Vehicles for Sightseeing

For sightseeing in regions such as Pahalgam and Sonmarg, only vehicles provided by local unions can be used. These vehicles may not always meet the usual standards of Kashmont but are required due to local regulations.

15. Road Access to Sonmarg in Winter

During the winter months, the road to Sonmarg is often closed due to heavy snowfall. In such cases, vehicles can only travel up to Gagangir, and further access is restricted.

16. Sonmarg Sightseeing Restrictions

For sightseeing in Sonmarg, Kashmont’s vehicle will take guests up to the local taxi stand. From there, guests must hire a pony or local union cab for further sightseeing. Please note that Thajwas Glacier and Zero Point are not included in the tour due to restrictions imposed by local unions.

17. Hotel Conditions in Restricted Areas

Due to a ban on new construction in certain areas of Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and parts of Srinagar (such as Dal Lake and Boulevard Road), some hotels may appear to be in dilapidated condition. Despite their outward appearance, these hotels still provide excellent facilities and are known for their hospitality.

18. Road Closures and Snow-Related Restrictions

In the event of road closures due to snow or slippery conditions, Kashmont vehicles may not be allowed to operate as a precautionary measure. Only snow jeeps or chained vehicles will be permitted on these routes. These vehicles can be hired on a direct payment basis or arranged by Kashmont at an additional cost.

19. Special Dinners and Festive Charges

The package price does not include special dinners or any mandatory charges imposed by hotels during events such as Christmas, New Year, or other special occasions. Kashmont will endeavor to inform you of any such charges at the time of booking, but please note that this information may not always be readily available.

20. Cancellations Due to Natural Calamities

If your trip is canceled due to natural calamities, weather conditions, or other unforeseen events, Kashmont will strive to provide the maximum possible refund in accordance with agreements made with our trade partners and vendors.

21. Itinerary Modifications

Kashmont reserves the right to modify the itinerary at any point due to circumstances including but not limited to force majeure events, strikes, festivals, weather conditions, traffic problems, hotel/flight overbookings, flight cancellations or rerouting, or entry restrictions at the destination. While we will make every effort to provide suitable alternative arrangements, Kashmont cannot be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims arising from such changes. Any additional costs due to force majeure events will be the responsibility of the guest.

By booking with Kashmont, you acknowledge and accept these terms and conditions. Our priority is to provide you with a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, but we kindly request your understanding in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.