Luv Shekhawat, the founder and managing director of Utsav Camp Sariska, embodies a unique blend of passion, expertise, and dedication in the hospitality sector. With over 13 years of experience, his journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to creating exceptional experiences while upholding sustainability practices. His background is rich, spanning operations management, leisure travel, and a deep understanding of sustainability initiatives. Having worked as a tour executive and an assistant lecturer in hospitality, Luv brings a wealth of knowledge to his role.
At Utsav Camp Sariska, nestled in the heart of Rajasthan in India, Luv’s vision comes to life. With this philosophy of appreciating the rich biodiversity of the region in mind, he has curated a range of holistic wildlife experiences that captivate guests and immerse them in the natural wonders of Sariska. Utsav Camp Sariska offers a retreat into nature’s embrace. The changing hues of the deciduous jungle, from deep browns to lush greens, mirror the rhythm of the seasons. Amidst this natural splendor, guests have the chance to encounter a plethora of wildlife, from leopards to porcupines, adding an element of excitement to their stay.
Luv’s deep connection to the land extends beyond providing memorable experiences. He is acutely aware of the delicate balance between sustainability and profitability. By integrating eco-friendly practices into every aspect of the resort’s operations, from vegetable gardening to solar panels, Luv ensures that Utsav Camp Sariska not only thrives but also treads lightly on the earth.
He recognizes the importance of empowering local communities and preserving indigenous cultures. Through initiatives like employing local staff and sourcing ingredients locally, Utsav Camp Sariska embraces a zero-mile approach, enriching the lives of those who call the region home.
Educating guests about the importance of sustainability is a paramount challenge for Luv. With every season bringing its unique set of challenges, he emphasizes the need for flexibility and adaptability in hospitality. The human element remains central to the guest experience, and Luv believes that fostering genuine connections with the staff is key to delivering exceptional service.
Central to Luv’s philosophy is the concept of detoxification and relaxation. While the introduction of internet access was necessitated by external circumstances, the ideal remains a sanctuary free from digital distractions.
"Our guests come here to detoxify themselves and experience relaxation. We encourage them to disconnect from the online world and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding us," Luv explains.
“We also have a zero-tolerance policy towards loud music. Our aim is for guests to enjoy their space without any disturbances,” Luv continues, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Each room is designed to ensure complete privacy, allowing guests to unwind and immerse themselves fully in the surrounding beauty.
Utsav Camp Sariska faces challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles and the need for policy support at the state level. Despite these challenges, Luv and his team remain committed to advocating for responsible tourism practices and fostering a deeper connection between guests, local communities, and the environment.
In Luv Shekhawat’s world, hospitality is rooted in sustainability, community and the timeless beauty of the wilderness. He sees hospitality as a means to empower local communities economically while also preserving the natural beauty of the region and believes that by providing alternative sources of income through hospitality, local communities can thrive without compromising the environment. He also emphasizes the importance of educating locals and collaborating with government officials on sustainable practices and responsible tourism. And all of these thoughts reflect in his work, encouraging us – the advocates of responsible tourism to continue leading by example.