Meet 4 Women Who Are Changing The Landscape Of Travel In India

Vandana Vijay

Vandana Vijay is the founder and CEO of Offbeat Tracks. She founded the company in 2016 to connect the remote regions of the Himalayas to the rest of the world and have people come and experience the reality of life in these remote regions. At the heart of Offbeat Tracks lies a commitment to working closely with grassroots service providers, giving guests truly authentic and immersive experiences. Whether it’s meditating with monks in the serene monasteries of Ladakh, enjoying a traditional Himachali feast with a local family in Manali, or embarking on a culinary adventure through Nagaland’s rich, diverse cuisine, Vandana ensures that every journey is one-of-a-kind. Starting modestly with just three destinations in 2016, the company today curates unique experiences across India, Southeast Asia, and Turkey.

In an era where artificial intelligence threatens to disrupt many human-centric industries, Vandana sees the travel and tourism sector as a potential game-changer. With Offbeat Tracks, she aims to foster a network of micro-entrepreneurs and local service providers who serve as ambassadors of their region’s culture, traditions, and heritage. “The vision is for Offbeat Tracks to become a platform through which people from around the world can explore the singular beauty of diverse cultures, all while empowering local communities,” she explains.

“Embrace slow, immersive journeys where you connect deeply with local cultures” 

Vandana is proud that Offbeat Tracks has made a significant mark in Bhutan, becoming one of the first Indian companies to offer the Trans Bhutan Trail as a travel experience. Known for its commitment to immersive and sustainable tourism, Bhutan has been a model for Offbeat Tracks’ philosophy. Many of the practices learned in Bhutan – such as using local cultural guides to ensure earnings are distributed equitably – are now applied to tours across India. Food, a cornerstone of cultural identity, is central to every Offbeat Tracks experience, with guests often enjoying home-cooked meals with local families. Whether it’s a farm-to-table dining experience or a culinary session with a local chef, the company emphasises locally-sourced, sustainable food at every turn.

As part of its eco-conscious efforts, Offbeat Tracks also champions e-bicycling tours, promoting slow, eco-friendly travel. Vandana, a staunch advocate of slow travel, has personally led cycling expeditions across India’s Northeast, the breathtaking Gurez Valley in Kashmir, and, recently, from Switzerland to Italy. These journeys embody her belief that travel should be more than just sightseeing – it should be an experience that engages all the senses and leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

Vandana’s Biggest Tip To Keep Your Travel Sustainable

“Look beyond ticking off places and staying in luxury hotels. Travel is an experience that should engage all your senses. Embrace slow, immersive journeys where you connect deeply with local cultures and return not just with photos, but with stories and memories that last a lifetime. Support the local economy by engaging with communities and buying local.”

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