Pranav Dangi, founder and CEO of The Hosteller - India's biggest brand-operated chain of backpacker hostels, is the driving force behind the venture. He has reshaped the travel experience for backpackers with his innovative and tech-driven hospitality solutions. With an impressive career spanning over nine years, he has overseen the establishment of 55+ self-operated backpacker hostels across the country establishing The Hosteller as India's smartest hospitality brand.
His journey as the founder and CEO of Hosteller began in January 2015 and since then, he has transformed it into a thriving network of backpacker hostels that provide a perfect pit-stop for global and local travellers seeking a clean, safe and smart place to stay.
What inspired you to start The Hosteller in 2015? How did you identify the gap in the Indian hospitality market for backpacker hostels?
The Hosteller was founded in 2014 with the vision of creating affordable, accessible, and community-driven backpacker hostels for the 'young at heart' traveller. During my travels across Europe, I experienced how backpacker hostels were thriving as hubs of community and cultural exchange. However, in India despite its rich, diverse culture and increasing number of travellers, there was a noticeable gap in affordable, social accommodations that catered to the growing demand for experiential travel.
I identified this gap through my own backpacking experiences, realising that young travellers, especially solo explorers, were looking for budget-friendly accommodations that offered more than just a bed. They wanted spaces where they could meet likeminded people, share stories, and explore local cultures together. In 2014, while the solo travel trend was beginning to gain momentum, India lacked a standardised hostel chain for this demographic. With solo travel increasing by nearly 40% annually, it was clear there was an opportunity to create something meaningful.
Esta historia es de la edición December 2024 de Hotelier India.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición December 2024 de Hotelier India.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Fools Abound! Are you one?
Dominic CostaBir discusses events, and the lessons he learnt.
The AI-Powered Future of Guest Experiences
Explore how Al, automation, and cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing the hospitality industry, ushering in an era of personalized service, efficiency, and innovation.
Embracing the Future
Five key hospitality trends to watch out for in 2025.
So, What's the New Year Plan?
As hoteliers come up with enticing packages for the year-end, here is how you can welcome the New Year in style.
"Targeting a total investment of ₹1,000 crore!"
Amrita Gupta, Chief Interior Designer & Director, Manglam group, sheds light on the group's new hospitality project in Jaipur, expansion plans and future growth targets.
"Aim to operate 100 properties by March 2025"
Founder and CEO of The Hosteller, Pranav Dangi shares insights into the rapid expansion of India's biggest brand-operated chain of backpacker hostels that foster community and culture.
Cocktails Go Arty?
Artisanal cocktails that emphasise creativity, high-quality ingredients, and unique, thoughtful presentation are making waves in the hospitality F&B scene.
Why luxury hospitality is rising in India's Tier-2 and 3 cities?
Analysing the current landscape, the factors driving growth, and the emerging trends shaping the luxury hospitality sector.
50 in 5
Vikramjit Singh, Chairman & Managing Director, Alivaa Hotels & Resorts, targets 50 properties in five years, aiming to revolutionise India's mid-market hospitality.
THE GRAND JURY MEET
Setting the stage for the 15th Hotelier India Awards 2024...
