Privacy Policy
Effective Date: 20-02-2025
Welcome to Himalayan Exposure Tours and Treks (“we”, “our”, “us”). We run a travel agency from Dentam West, Sikkim, and operate the website exploresikkimnow.com. Your trust matters to us, so we wrote this Privacy Policy in clear, friendly language. It explains what data we collect, why we need it, how we protect it, and the choices you have. If anything here is unclear, write to info@exploresikkimnow.com and we will be glad to help.
1. Scope
This notice covers all pages, contact forms, review sections, and mailing lists that link to it. It does not apply to third-party sites we may mention or link.
2. Why We Collect Personal Data
We gather only the details we need to:
- answer your questions,
- build custom travel itineraries,
- confirm your booking,
- send trip updates, and
- comply with Indian laws and court orders.
We do not collect card numbers or other direct payment details. All payments occur through Google Pay, bank transfer, or cash at our office counter.
3. Information You Provide
When you fill out an inquiry, comment, or review, we ask for:
| Field | Purpose | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Name | So we know what to call you | Yes |
| To reply and send travel papers | Yes | |
| Age | To suggest age-friendly activities | Yes |
| Gender | For lodging preferences if shared rooms apply | Optional |
| Country | For visa advice and currency guidance | Yes |
| Full Address | For invoices or permit deliveries | Optional |
We do not show your email in public reviews or comments.
4. Data We Collect Automatically
Like most sites, our server logs limited technical facts:
- IP address,
- browser type,
- pages visited, and
- time spent.
We use these details to keep the site safe and improve speed. They do not identify you by name.
5. Cookies
Cookies are small text snippets stored in your browser. We use only basic, first-party cookies to remember:
- your language preference,
- items you add to “Wish-List Trips,” and
- whether you already accepted this policy banner.
You can block cookies in your browser, but some site features may then work less smoothly.
6. How We Use Your Data
We use the information we hold strictly for:
- Service delivery – arranging treks, hotels, and permits.
- Customer support – replying to questions fast.
- Legal compliance – producing records for tax or government requests.
- Security – detecting spam or misuse.
We never sell or rent your personal data for marketing lists.
7. When We Share Information
We share data only when necessary:
- Trusted partners – e.g., local homestays that must know your name and nationality to register you.
- Government agencies – if required by law, such as for Restricted Area Permits in Sikkim.
- Courts – when served with a valid legal order.
Partners receive just the data they need and must keep it confidential.
8. Data Storage and Retention
- We store electronic records on secure servers located in India.
- Paper forms are locked in our Dentam West office.
- Booking records are kept for seven years to meet tax rules, then safely destroyed.
- Unused inquiry emails older than 18 months are deleted each winter.
9. Security Measures
To guard your data we use:
- SSL encryption on every page,
- strong password rules for staff logins,
- role-based access (only trip planners see booking forms), and
- daily malware scans.
While no system is perfect, we review defenses often and train staff to handle information carefully.
10. Your Rights
Under Indian law you may:
- Access – ask what data we hold about you.
- Correct – fix mistakes in your details.
- Delete – request removal when we have no legal reason to keep it.
- Restrict – limit certain uses.
- Withdraw consent – opt out of newsletters any time by clicking “unsubscribe.”
To exercise these rights, send a clear email to info@exploresikkimnow.com. We reply within 15 working days.
11. Children’s Privacy
We do not knowingly gather data from anyone under 13. If you believe a child has provided personal information, contact us and we will erase it promptly.
12. International Visitors
Our trips run in India, so your data is processed here. By using the site, you agree to Indian data laws and to possible transfers inside India necessary to arrange your travel.
13. Third-Party Links
Our pages may link to airlines, map tools, or travel blogs. We do not control their privacy practices. Read their policies before sharing any information.
14. Consent
By using exploresikkimnow.com you agree to the collection and use of information as described here. If you do not agree, please refrain from submitting forms on our site.
15. Changes to This Policy
We may update this notice to reflect new laws or services. If we make major changes, we will:
- post the new text here,
- change the “Effective Date” at the top, and
- email users who booked within the last 12 months.
Checking this page from time to time will keep you informed.
16. Contact Us
Questions or concerns? Write to:
Himalayan Exposure Tours and Treks
Dentam West, Sikkim – 737111
Email: info@exploresikkimnow.com
Phone number is shared upon confirmed booking.
Thank you for reading. Enjoy planning your journey through the beautiful Himalayas with confidence that your privacy rides with you.