Terms and Conditions

These terms apply to all treks and tours booked with Makalu Arun Social Trek (MAST), a government-registered trekking agency (Reg. No. 286/067/068, trekking licence 1/068/069) based in Khandbari-7, Sankhuwasabha, Nepal. By confirming a booking, you agree to these terms.

1. Booking and Payment

• To confirm a booking, please send us: a copy of your passport, a passport-size photo, proof of travel insurance, and a 20% deposit of the total trip price.
• The deposit allows us to arrange your permits (TIMS card, national park fees), transport and porter-guide in time.
• The remaining balance can be paid online before you arrive, in Kathmandu, or at our office in Khandbari, but in full before your trek begins.
• If the balance is not paid before the trek starts, we may cancel the booking, and the deposit will not be refunded.
• Payment details are on our [Payment Methods] page. Always confirm bank details with us by email or WhatsApp before paying.
• You may also book on arrival in Nepal, subject to availability.

2. What the Price Includes

• Our price covers the services listed on each trek page: porter-guide, permits, transport and agency service.
• Food and accommodation on the trail are not included. You pay tea houses and homestays directly, so your money stays with local families.
• International and domestic flights, visas, insurance, personal expenses and tips are not included unless stated.

3. Cancellation by You
   Cancellations must be sent to us in writing (email or WhatsApp).

4. Cancellation or Changes by MAST

• If we must cancel your trek before it starts for reasons within our control, you will receive a full refund of all payments.
• If a trek is cancelled or changed because of events beyond our control (see section 10), we will offer an alternative route, new dates or [a partial refund of unused services].

5. Changes to Your Itinerary

• Any trek can be customized to suit your fitness, interests and dates.
• During the trek, your porter-guide may change the route or schedule for safety, weather or health reasons.
• Changes may increase or decrease the total cost. Extra days (for example, the porter-guide’s salary) are paid [at the end of the trek].

6. Leaving a Trek Early

• If you leave a trek early for any reason, including illness, no refund is given for unused days or services.
• Any extra costs (evacuation, transport, hotels) are your responsibility and should be covered by your travel insurance.

7. Flight Delays and Cancellations

• Flights to Tumlingtar and Lukla are often delayed or cancelled due to weather. We strongly recommend adding 1–2 extra days to your travel plans.
• Extra hotel, food or transport costs caused by flight delays are [paid by you / shared as follows: …]. We will always help you find the best alternative.

8. Health, Fitness and Insurance

• Trekking in the Himalayas involves walking at high altitude in remote areas. You are responsible for being fit and healthy enough for your chosen trek, and should consult a doctor if you have any medical condition.
• Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It must cover trekking up to the maximum altitude of your trek, emergency helicopter rescue and medical treatment.
• Your porter-guide may stop the ascent if they believe your health or safety is at risk.

9. Your Responsibilities

• Carry your passport, visa, permits and insurance documents at all times.
• Follow your porter-guide’s safety instructions and respect local customs and the environment.
• The luggage limit for your porter-guide is 15–20 kg.
• Illegal activity or behaviour that endangers yourself or others may end your participation without a refund.
• MAST is not responsible for loss of or damage to personal belongings.

10. Events Beyond Our Control
    MAST is not liable for delays, changes or cancellations caused by events beyond our control, including bad weather, natural disasters, landslides, strikes, political unrest, government orders, flight cancellations or epidemics.
11. Liability
    MAST organizes treks with care, using experienced local porter-guides. We are not liable for injury, illness, loss or damage except where caused by our own negligence.
12. Complaints
    If you are unhappy with any part of your trip, please tell your porter-guide or contact us straight away, so we can try to fix it while you are still in Nepal. Written complaints should be sent within [30] days of the end of your trek.
13. Governing Law
    These terms are governed by the laws of Nepal.
14. Contact
    Makalu Arun Social Trek (MAST), Khandbari-7, Sankhuwasabha, Nepal
    Phone: +977 29562716 · Mobile/WhatsApp: +977 9842084078 · Email:makaluaruntreks@gmail.com