Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy and Cookie Policies for tour operators, including government and private entities,
are designed to inform you how your personal information is collected, used, and protected.
While each company has its own specific policy, there are common themes that you will find
across most of them.
Privacy Policy
A privacy policy explains how a company handles the personal data it collects from you. Here
are the key aspects you should look for:
→ Information Collected: The policy will specify what personal information is
gathered. This typically includes:
1. Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Name, address, phone
number, email address, and ID proof details (like Aadhaar card or passport number) which are
essential for booking tickets.
2. Payment Information: We are not collect any Credit/debit card
details, bank account information, or other payment-related data, which is collected
securely for transactions.
3. Usage Data: Non-personal information collected automatically, such as
your
IP address, browser type, operating system, and pages you visit on the website. This is used
for analytics and improving the user experience.
→ How Information is Used: The policy will outline the purposes for which your
data is used,
including:
1. Service Provision: To process your bookings, confirm your darshan
tickets, and
arrange for transportation and accommodation.
2. Communication: To send you updates about your booking, important
notifications, and
promotional offers.
3. Improvement of Services: To analyze user behavior and feedback to
enhance the
website, apps, and tour packages.
→ Data Sharing: This is a critical section. The policy will state who your
personal information might be shared with.
1. Third-Party Service Providers: Information is often shared with
partners who help run the service, such as TTD for darshan ticket booking, hotels for
accommodation, and bus or car operators for transportation. This is done to fulfill your
booking.
2. Legal Obligations: The company may disclose your information if
required by law, court order, or to a government or law enforcement agency.
Data Security: The policy will describe the measures taken to protect your data from
unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. This often includes using SSL encryption for online
transactions, firewalls, and other security protocols.
Cookie Policy
A cookie policy explains how a website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies.
Cookies are small text files placed on your device to enhance your browsing experience.
What are Cookies?: The policy will explain that cookies are small data files that
websites use to remember your preferences, track your activity, and provide a personalized
experience.
→ Types of Cookies: Websites typically use different types of cookies:
1. Strictly Necessary Cookies: Essential for the website to function
properly, such as allowing you to log in to your account.
2. Performance Cookies: Used for analytics to see how visitors interact
with the site, which helps the company improve its services.
3. Functional Cookies: Remember your preferences, like language or
region,
to provide a more convenient experience.
4. Marketing/Tracking Cookies: Used by third parties (like Google Ads)
to
show you relevant advertisements.
→ User Consent: Websites will ask for your consent to use cookies, often through
a banner. You
usually have the option to accept all cookies or to manage your preferences and disable
certain types of cookies.
→ How to Manage Cookies: The policy will provide instructions on how you can
manage or disable
cookies through your browser settings.
Key Takeaways
→ Read the Policy: Always take a few minutes to read the privacy and cookie
policies,
especially
on the websites of private tour operators, as their policies can differ significantly from
government entities.
→ Understand Data Sharing: Be aware of who your information will be shared with,
as this is a
necessary part of the tour booking process.
→ Exercise Your Rights: Most policies will mention your rights, such as the
right to access,
correct, or request the deletion of your personal data.