Destination Dreamweaver: The Life of a Travel Agent

Meet Ekta Sharma, Founder and Managing Director of Khyaath Design Holidays

Ekta Sharma’s journey as the Founder and Managing Director of Khyaath Design Holidays is a testament to passion and innovation in the travel industry.

With a vision to create unique, immersive experiences, she has transformed how people explore the world, prioritizing personalized service and cultural authenticity.

Can you share your journey leading up to the founding of Khyaath Design Holidays?

Ekta Sharma: My journey into the travel industry began at the tender age of 17, when I decided to immerse myself in my family’s travel business while simultaneously pursuing my studies in fashion design.

Balancing schoolwork and the demands of the family business was no small feat, but it quickly became evident that my creativity was a powerful asset.

I found joy in combining my love for travel with my flair for design, transforming each trip into a unique and personalized experience.

From my earliest memories, travel has always been my passion. I recall the excitement of family vacations, exploring new cultures, savoring diverse cuisines, and connecting with people from all walks of life.

Those experiences ignited a spark within me, and I realized that travel was more than just a hobby; it was a calling.

This passion drove me to delve deeper into the industry, and I eagerly absorbed all I could about travel planning, customer service, and the intricacies of creating unforgettable itineraries.

13 years ago, I felt compelled to embark on a new adventure—one where I could fully express my vision and creativity. I decided to launch my own travel company, fueled by a desire to transform the travel experience into something truly extraordinary.

My aim was clear: to make every journey an experiential art form, where each itinerary was crafted as a masterpiece that reflected the unique preferences and dreams of my clients.

In building my company with a good experience of 25 years in industry, I have had the incredible privilege of curating unforgettable journeys for over 100,000 clients of many nationalities including Indians like Spain, Germany, Italy, America, Philipines and many more.

My portfolio spans a diverse range of travelers, including large corporate groups, extended families, solo adventurers, and luxury travelers.

Each experience is meticulously tailored to meet their specific needs and desires, ensuring that every trip is not just a vacation but a memorable adventure filled with joy and discovery.

One of the aspects I take the most pride in is showcasing the rich tapestry of India to our foreign clients.

India is a land of unparalleled beauty, history, and culture, and I am passionate about providing our clients with unique experiences that allow them to connect deeply with our heritage.

Whether it’s a guided tour through the bustling streets of Jaipur, a serene retreat in the Himalayas, or a culinary journey through the spice markets of Kerala or gastronomy experiences in Old Delhi, to the Pashmina trails in Kashmir or the unique festival experiences.

I strive to create moments that resonate with our clients long after their journey has ended. The joy I see on their faces when they experience the vibrancy of India is truly rewarding.

For our Indian clients traveling abroad, we specialize in creating bespoke journeys to 76 countries. This global reach is supported by a robust network of local specialists who understand the intricacies of their respective destinations.

Collaborating with these experts allows us to craft unparalleled experiences, ensuring that our clients feel like locals no matter where they are in the world. From hidden gems to must-see attractions, we provide personalized recommendations that elevate their travel experience.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to excellence and a genuine desire to connect people with the world around them. I believe that travel has the power to transform lives, broaden horizons, and foster understanding among cultures.

Each itinerary we design is not just about logistics; it’s about weaving stories and creating moments that inspire.

It’s about helping our clients discover new perspectives and forge connections that last a lifetime.

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that have come my way. The relationships I have built with clients, partners, and fellow travel enthusiasts have enriched my life in countless ways.

Every trip planned and every smile created fuels my passion to continue evolving and enhancing the travel experiences we offer.

Travel is more than just a business for me; it’s a lifelong passion that allows me to share the beauty of our world with others.

I remain dedicated to crafting beautiful, transformative experiences that resonate with travelers and inspire them to explore further.

With each journey we embark on together, I am reminded of the incredible stories that await and the connections waiting to be made, reinforcing my belief that travel is indeed a universal language that unites us all.

About Khyaath Design Holidays

Ekta Sharma: Khyaath Design Holidays is a travel company specialising in Inbound and Outbound Travels , dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences for our clients.

We take pride in curating personalized itineraries that reflect the unique preferences of each traveler, whether they are corporate groups, families, solo adventurers, or luxury seekers.

Our mission is to showcase the beauty and richness of India to our foreign clients while providing unparalleled travel experiences for Indian clients venturing to 76 countries.

With a network of local specialists, we ensure that every journey we design is an experiential masterpiece, connecting travelers to the world in meaningful ways.

Services

Our services and products encompass comprehensive end-to-end management and execution of both inbound and outbound travel, along with Leisure trips and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) in India and across 76 countries.

We pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions that ensure every aspect of our clients’ travel experiences is seamless and unforgettable.

Whether organizing corporate events, incentive trips, or leisure travel, we provide meticulous planning and expert execution to create memorable journeys that meet the unique needs of each client.

Can you describe the core mission and vision of your company?

Ekta Sharma: Our mission at Khyaath Design Holidays is to create unforgettable travel experiences by seamlessly blending creativity and personalization, while prioritizing sustainability.

We are dedicated to providing exceptional service that transforms every journey into a unique adventure, showcasing the beauty of India and the world, and fostering meaningful connections for our clients.

We strive to minimize our environmental footprint and support local communities in every destination we serve.

Vision: Our vision is to be a leading travel company recognized for our innovative and sustainable approach to travel design, inspiring a global community of explorers.

We aim to empower travelers to discover new horizons and cultures while promoting responsible tourism practices.

Our goal is to ensure that every journey we curate leaves a lasting impact, enriches lives, and contributes positively to the environment and local communities.

What challenges have you faced in the travel industry?

Ekta Sharma: Throughout my journey in the travel industry, I have encountered several challenges that have shaped my growth and understanding.

Initially, I underestimated market demand for certain travel packages, highlighting the importance of thorough research and staying attuned to trends.

I also realized the value of building a strong network of local partners, which enhances the authenticity of our offerings. Struggling with work-life balance emphasized the necessity of self-care for long-term creativity and productivity.

I also faced challenges in crisis management during unforeseen events, prompting me to develop robust plans and clear communication strategies. Initially hesitant to embrace technology,

I learned that innovation is crucial for improving efficiency and staying competitive. Each of the experiences, while challenging, has enriched my approach to creating exceptional travel experiences.

What inspired you to start Khyaath Design Holidays?

Ekta Sharma: The inspiration behind my journey as an entrepreneur in the travel industry stemmed from a deep-rooted passion for exploration and a desire to create meaningful experiences for others.

Growing up in a family business allowed me to witness firsthand the joy that travel brings to people, igniting my own wanderlust and creativity.

I realized that travel is not just about destinations; it’s about the stories, connections, and memories that unfold along the way.

As I studied fashion design, I discovered the power of creativity in shaping experiences. I envisioned a travel company where every itinerary is crafted like a piece of art, reflecting the unique desires of each traveler.

This vision propelled me to take the leap into entrepreneurship after 13 years in the industry, motivated by a desire to transform travel into an experiential journey that resonates with clients on a personal level.

Additionally, I wanted to embrace the opportunity to innovate and contribute to sustainable tourism, ensuring that my business not only enhances the lives of travelers but also supports local communities and the environment.

This blend of passion, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact inspired me to forge my own path as an entrepreneur.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the travel sector?

Ekta Sharma: For young entrepreneurs in the travel industry, there are a few key tips for success. Pay attention to details, as they can greatly affect your clients’ experiences.

Have a genuine passion for travel; this enthusiasm will inspire both you and your clients.

Always be eager to learn about new trends and technology. Focus on customer satisfaction by building strong relationships and listening to feedback. Embrace technology to make your operations smoother and network with others for valuable support.

Be creative and find ways to stand out in a competitive market. Stay adaptable to handle challenges, and consider sustainability to contribute to nature.

Finally, be authentic and share your personal travel stories to connect with clients. Following these tips can help you build a successful career in the travel industry.

Through determination and creativity, Ekta has not only built a thriving brand but also inspired countless travelers to seek meaningful adventures. Her success story exemplifies the impact of combining vision with dedication in the travel sector.

Read more Success stories of Indian entrepreneurs, Women Entrepreneurs & startups stories at SugerMint. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn