Our Team
Where Experience Meets Exploration
Backed by years of experience, our team ensures each trip is safe, enriching, and unforgettable.
Backed by years of experience, our team ensures each trip is safe, enriching, and unforgettable.
Ayush is the co-founder and face of Curious Hathi Expeditions Pvt. Ltd., with years of experience working with student organizations. As the creative force behind the organisation, he has been instrumental in shaping its vision, strategy, and operations. A passionate educator, he designs engaging experiential programs that transform travel into meaningful learning.
A certified mountaineer, windsurfer, and speleologist, Ayush loves exploring uncharted mountains and caves, always seeking unique trip designs that inspire curiosity. He strongly believes that project-based learning is the future of education and integrates this philosophy into every journey Curious Hathi creates.
Gaurav Athalye is the co-founder and guiding force of Curious Hathi Expeditions, where strategic clarity meets a love for the wild. He excels at building partnerships, honed over two decades of leading expeditions from student cohorts to professionals across five continents and India’s remotest corners. This on-ground network gives Curious Hathi a distinctive edge, shaping how its programs are designed and ensuring exceptional facilitators for every experience.
An accomplished naturalist, scuba diver, and photographer, Gaurav curates travel that sparks curiosity, deep connection, and lasting transformation. Students who have traveled with him remember the experience years later for its lasting impact, a testament to the work and ethos he has developed at Curious Hathi.
Nishi – Head of Finance Nishi has been with Curious Hathi Expeditions since 2016, bringing 9+ years of expertise in finance and accounts. As Head of Finance, she leads planning, budgeting, compliance, and transparent reporting while building efficient systems and managing complex structures. Known for her problem-solving, teamwork, and integrity, she ensures smooth operations and supports the company’s vision of hassle-free travel. Outside work, she balances numbers with creativity and enjoys exploring ideas that add value to the team and organization.
Ketan has been an integral part of Curious Hathi Expeditions Private Limited since 2018, leading the company’s operations with passion and precision. As Head of Operations, he brings over 7 years of experience in the travel industry, specializing in logistics, people management, and on-ground coordination to deliver seamless, safe, and memorable student journeys. Dedicated and resourceful, Ketan thrives on balancing learning with adventure, ensuring every program reflects both efficiency and care. Beyond work, he is deeply connected to the outdoors—pursuing trekking, wildlife photography, and football, passions that mirror his spirit of teamwork, exploration, and continuous growth.
Harshali at Curious Hathi Expeditions integrates her background in biotechnology research with her growing practice in human processes and facilitation. Trained to observe, analyze, and think ahead, she applies the same scientific clarity to designing and leading student journeys. Her role spans program curation, field leadership, and operational planning, where ensuring every expedition is safe, seamless, and well-structured. At the same time, her facilitation practice allows her to create meaningful learning spaces—helping students reflect, connect, and grow through their experiences. With attention to detail, a forward-thinking approach, and a strong connection with people, Harshali ensures that each expedition goes beyond adventure to become a meaningful journey of learning and discovery.