Doper Girl
MBA Couple Quit Corporate Life to ‘Move to The Hills’, Start Dreamy Organic Cafe in Uttarakhand
In the bustling city of Delhi, the daily grind can sometimes lead to moments of decisive clarity. For Amit Kumar Srivastava and Shipra Mohan Sinha, this moment came in 2017, as they stood under the scorching sun on Barapullah flyover. Both successful in their respective corporate careers—Amit at HDFC AMC and Shipra at Outlook Magazine—they yearned for something more fulfilling. That day, they decided to quit their jobs and follow their hearts to the serene hills of Uttarakhand.
Following the Call of the Hills
Childhood friends and partners, Amit and Shipra always dreamed of living in the mountains, away from the hustle of city life. Their love for nature and passion for food led them to Lansdowne, a quaint town in Uttarakhand, where they established the Lansdowne Trip Travel Café. This wasn’t just any café; it was a dream turned into reality, a cozy spot that serves as a haven for both locals and tourists.
From Delhi’s Concrete Jungle to Uttarakhand’s Greenery
Leaving behind their comfortable lives in Delhi, Amit and Shipra moved to Lansdowne with a vision. Their journey began with the purchase of an old mule shed in Devikhal, which they transformed into their dream café. Despite the initial challenges, including months without visitors, they persevered, driven by their goal to create something unique and provide employment to the local community.
Creating a Unique Experience
What set Lansdowne Trip Travel Café apart was its unique offering of continental cuisine in a remote village setting. Amit and Shipra trained local staff to cook pizzas, pastas, and make delicious milkshakes, attracting visitors with the allure of continental dishes. The café’s popularity grew, and so did their commitment to their mission.
Relocating for a Better Cause
In 2017, the couple relocated their café to Lansdowne to create a more unique experience away from the commercialized areas. Lansdowne’s dense forests and tranquil environment provided the perfect backdrop for their café, allowing them to stay close to nature while offering an exceptional experience to their guests.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Living in the hills required meticulous planning and a DIY approach. From managing water runoff during heavy rains to storing food properly to prevent mould, Amit and Shipra tackled every challenge head-on. They also embraced sustainability by using glass bottles, porcelain utensils, and upcycled furniture, minimizing their environmental footprint.
Building a Community
The café isn’t just a business; it’s a community hub. Amit and Shipra employed local staff, providing training and opportunities for career growth. Their initiative to showcase and sell handcrafted items from local women further empowered the community, helping artisans like Pavani find success.
Commitment to Nature and Wildlife
Amit and Shipra’s commitment to preserving the local ecosystem is evident in their practices. They’ve planted various local flora and created a birdbath to attract local species, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature. They also avoid using genset generators to protect the local wildlife from noise pollution.
A Unique Offering
The café offers more than just food; it provides an immersive experience. Guests can enjoy stays in forest bungalows, guided tours to unexplored spots, and dining experiences in local homes. Amit and Shipra’s connection with the community and forest guards adds an authentic touch to the experience.
A Legacy of Inspiration
The success of Lansdowne Trip Travel Café has inspired others to open new resorts and properties in the area, creating job opportunities for locals. Amit and Shipra’s story is a testament to following one’s passion and the positive impact it can have on the community and environment.
Lessons for Adventurous Souls
Amit and Shipra’s journey offers valuable lessons for those looking to embark on their own adventures:
- Follow Your Passion: Leaving behind the comfort of corporate jobs, they pursued what they truly loved, finding fulfillment in their new venture.
- Embrace Challenges: From managing logistical challenges to creating a sustainable business, their innovative solutions helped them thrive.
- Build a Community: By empowering locals and building a supportive community, they created a sustainable and successful business.
- Respect Nature: Their commitment to preserving the environment and wildlife highlights the importance of sustainable practices.
- Offer Unique Experiences: Creating unique and authentic experiences for guests can set your venture apart and attract loyal customers.
Amit and Shipra’s story is an inspiration for anyone looking to break free from the routine and pursue a life of adventure and purpose. Their journey from Delhi’s concrete jungle to Uttarakhand’s serene hills showcases the power of passion, perseverance, and community.
