BY DEBAJYOTI CHAKRABORTY
NEW DELHI | 28 MAY 2025
- How do you see experiential travel evolving in destinations like Uttarakhand and Rajasthan over the next few years?
We’re seeing a clear shift in the way people travel — it’s no longer just about sightseeing; it’s about meaningful engagement. Destinations like Uttarakhand and Rajasthan are ideally placed to lead this evolution. In Uttarakhand, the blend of nature, spirituality, and wellness has always drawn travellers, but now they’re seeking deeper, more curated experiences — from guided treks with a local perspective to soulful retreats that go beyond yoga.
Rajasthan, on the other hand, is going through a renaissance of sorts. While its forts and palaces remain timeless, travellers are increasingly looking for authentic interactions — be it a private wildlife safari or even understanding local crafts at the grassroots level. Over the next few years, I believe experiential travel in these regions will continue to grow, becoming more niche, immersive, and value driven.
- What are the unique and essential elements that contribute to crafting a memorable guest experience at Leisure Hotels Group and Singhvilas properties?
At the heart of our guest experience is a sense of place. We want our guests to feel connected to the destination — not just physically, but emotionally. This means drawing inspiration from the local culture, traditions, and environment. Whether it’s a sunrise Ganga Aarti in Haridwar, a forest-side breakfast in Ranthambore, or a curated village walk in the hills — it’s these thoughtfully crafted moments that stay with people long after they’ve checked out.
At Singhvilas Ranthambore, we’ve gone a step further by integrating comfort with storytelling. Guests aren’t just staying in a resort — they’re stepping into an environment that reflects the spirit of the jungle, the legacy of the region, and the comfort of modern design. It’s this balance of authenticity and warmth that makes the experience truly memorable.
- Could you share insights into your future plans and vision for the group’s growth and expansion?
Our growth is centred around expanding into destinations that align with our strengths — places with a strong cultural or natural identity where we can curate experiences, not just stays. Singhvilas is our bespoke jungle retreat, and we’re looking to develop it further in key heritage and wildlife locations across India. The idea is to build soulful retreats that are deeply rooted in their surroundings.
We’re also investing in technology and personalization — building platforms that help us understand our guests better and deliver tailor-made experiences across all touchpoints.
- What steps or measures has Leisure Hotels Group taken to prioritize sustainability in its operations?
Sustainability isn’t a checklist for us — it’s a mindset that shapes how we build and operate. Many of our properties run partially on solar energy and have implemented strong waste management practices. We consciously avoid excessive use of plastics and are moving towards more eco-friendly materials wherever possible.
More importantly, we’re deeply committed to supporting the local ecosystem — whether that’s sourcing ingredients from nearby farms, employing local staff, or partnering with artisans and community groups. At Singhvilas Ranthambore, for example, the design and construction embraced eco-sensitive principles and local materials, and we’ve created experiences that celebrate the park’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Our goal is to grow responsibly — to be stewards of the destinations we’re in, not just operators.
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