According to a report published by Allied Market Research in 2023, the global community-based tourism market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 14.1% over the next decade. The market is projected to reach $2136.8 billion by 2032, and it is because of the surge in awareness and interest of travellers towards community building. This growth also highlights the increasing role of travel agents, tour operators, and sightseeing tour operators in promoting sustainable tourism practices.
One such influential traveller among thousands of others is Shantanu Singh, the founder of Experience Aum. But before diving into his dreamy story and impactful vision, let’s first understand what exactly community-based travel is.

What is Community-Based Tourism?
Community-based tourism (CBT) is all about benefiting locals through travel—by contributing to the local economy, helping them spread cultural heritage, and supporting the sustainability of the communities they visit.

Travellers get to experience firsthand the hospitality of the people they visit, engaging in meaningful conversations and exchanging rich cultural knowledge. Many CBT experiences include visits to religious destinations and pilgrimage places, participation in cultural events, or stays near Hindu temples, offering deeper cultural immersion.
Imagine staying at a homestay and finding yourself another home for life, simply because of the warmth, togetherness and hospitality of the host.
They’ll move heaven and earth to make your stay remarkable—all you have to do is respect their culture and community beliefs, and they will welcome you back with the same warmth and love every time you return.
That’s the beauty of community-based travel! Now, let’s return to where our journey of community-building first began.

Inspiration to Start a Community-Based Travel Company
Being an avid traveller and spiritual seeker for nearly a decade, Shantanu has come to understand the power of travel—of visiting new places, experiencing the hospitality of local people, and uncovering the stories and histories that can genuinely change your life for the better.

Mountains have always been his first true love. So back in 2015, when he shifted to Kasar Devi, Almora, he shared, “I experienced a shift in my thoughts and a sense of untapped potential within. I felt a deep urge to create something meaningful – something that would serve travellers like me while also creating opportunities for people around me.”

That moment marked the beginning of Experience AUM, an experience-based travel agency rooted in the spirit of community and togetherness.

What Role Does a Travel Company Have in CBT?
Travel agents and tour operators play a significant role in promoting community-based travel, as they possess the resources, insights, and intent to bridge the gap between travellers and local communities.

With deeper knowledge of local culture, beliefs, Hindu temples, pilgrimage places, and traditions, they can offer travellers a more personalised and meaningful experience—while preserving the sanctity of the places and offering economic benefits.

By collaborating with local vendors and suppliers—whether for accommodations, meals, or activities—travel companies help generate consistent income and employment opportunities for the community.

This allows travellers to have authentic experiences, learning about the history, heritage and people of the places they visit, thus promoting sustainable travel and community building. These journeys often turn into visits to tourist attractions, religious destinations, or even wellness centres, offering a complete and enriching itinerary.

Our Role at Experience AUM
We understand how overwhelming it can feel to plan a journey to a lesser-known destination. That’s why we take care of everything – so you can simply choose your dates and focus on the experience.
At Experience Aum, we are devoted to creating unforgettable, soul-enriching journeys that connect you with nature, spirituality, and self-discovery. Our mission is to guide you on a mindful travel and well-being journey through carefully curated, holistic trips and cultural immersions.

Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or a rejuvenating break from everyday life, we offer various experiences tailored to your needs. We take you to some of the most spiritually significant and naturally serene destinations, where you can immerse yourself in the energy of those sacred spaces, participate in mindfulness practices, and find inner harmony. Many of these locations also serve as tourist information centres, offering valuable insights into local culture and spirituality.

With a deep focus on making a lasting impact, Experience Aum is more than just a travel agent or tour operator—we’re your travel companion who ensures your journey is enriching, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
Join us on a journey of self-exploration and rediscover the essence of who you truly are.