Terms & Conditions
Transparent, thoughtful agreements crafted to ensure every private journey in Varanasi is seamless, respectful, and safe.
Bespoke Journey Bookings
SoilNSoul Travels designs custom, private journeys tailored to individual travelers, couples, and private families. By confirming an itinerary or paying an advance deposit, you agree to these Terms and Conditions.
Each journey proposal is custom-crafted. All services, including private wooden boat charters, certified heritage concierges, artisan studio visits, and heritage stays, are reserved exclusively for your party.
Payment & Confirmation Schedule
- Deposit: A deposit is required to secure private boat charters, boutique haveli accommodations, and dedicated concierges.
- Balance Payment: The remaining balance is payable prior to or upon arrival in Varanasi as indicated in your bespoke quotation.
- Inclusions: Quotations clearly delineate all inclusions (e.g. boat charters, monument entries, guide fees) and exclusions (personal shopping, tips, international flights).
River Safety & Weather Protocols
The safety of our travelers is paramount. River operations on the Ganges are subject to natural conditions and directives from the Varanasi District Administration and Water Police:
During periods of intense monsoon or swift river currents, local authorities may temporarily restrict small boat operations. In such events, boat itineraries are rescheduled or adapted to elevated ghat walks, temple trails, and rooftop Aarti viewings without loss of value.
Cultural Sanctity & Temple Etiquette
Varanasi is a living sacred city. We ask all guests to observe traditional norms of respect:
- Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when entering temple premises and sacred sanctums.
- Refrain strictly from photography at cremation ghats (Manikarnika and Harishchandra) to preserve the dignity of bereaved families.
- Footwear must be removed before entering temples, shrines, and traditional weaver karkhanas.
Cancellations & Rescheduling
We understand plans can change. Rescheduling requests made with reasonable advance notice are accommodated whenever boutique availability allows. Cancellations are subject to unrecoverable supplier commitments (such as non-refundable boutique stay deposits during peak auspicious festivals like Dev Deepawali or Maha Shivaratri).
Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India. Any disputes arising hereunder shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.