With India’s vacation home rental market experiencing explosive growth, StayVista has emerged as a clear frontrunner in the luxury segment. Fresh off raising ₹ 41 crore in its Series B funding round — led by JSW Ventures and supported by DSG Consumer Partners and Capri Global — the platform is poised for rapid expansion. In this exclusive conversation, t2 spoke with co-founders Amit Damani, Ankita Sheth and Pranav Maheshwari about the journey so far, what the new funding means for StayVista, and how the brand is catering to the evolving needs of India’s new-age travellers. Excerpts...

Congratulations on closing your Series B round! What was the most critical factor that helped you raise over ₹40 crore in the current funding environment?

The most critical factor was demonstrating strong unit economics and sustainable growth. In a market where profitability is rare, we showcased a business model that is asset-light yet highly scalable, with strong customer retention and market leadership in the luxury villa category. Our ability to turn profitable while scaling gave investors confidence.

StayVista has hosted over a million guests. What do you think has been your biggest differentiator in the alternative accommodation space?

Our biggest differentiator is our end-to-end curation — we don’t just list homes, we transform them into experiences. From handpicked properties and elevated service standards to curated local experiences, we ensure consistency in luxury stays across diverse destinations.

You mentioned turning profitable — a rarity in today’s startup climate. What were the key decisions or turning points that led to profitability?

Profitability was driven by operational efficiencies, optimised pricing strategies, and high repeat guest rates. Early on, we focused on the premium leisure segment where margins are better, and we built a strong tech-enabled platform to streamline operations at scale.

How do you maintain quality and consistency across 1,000+ properties in 100+ locations?

It’s a combination of rigorous SOPs, regular audits, and a dedicated on-ground team. Our property experience managers ensure consistent guest experiences, and our tech platform helps owners and staff follow standardised checklists and maintenance protocols.

StayVista offers more than just accommodation — from curated food to concierge services. How important are these experiential add-ons to your business model?

These add-ons are central to our value proposition. Today’s travellers want more than a stay — they seek memorable experiences. Our curated food, local experiences, and personalised services drive guest delight and higher average order values.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during the pandemic, and how did you emerge stronger?

The biggest challenge was uncertainty. But we quickly adapted — pivoting to longer stays, work-from-villa packages, and contactless check-ins. Interestingly, the pandemic unlocked a demand for private getaways, helping us bounce back stronger than pre-Covid levels.

What made JSW Ventures the right lead investor for this round? How will they add strategic value beyond capital?

JSW Ventures brings deep consumer and tech expertise. They believe in building sustainable, India-first brands and will help us with scaling our tech infrastructure and enhancing our brand positioning in the premium lifestyle segment.

DSG Consumer Partners has backed StayVista three times now. What’s the secret to maintaining such long-term investor confidence?

It’s about consistent delivery and transparent communication. We’ve shown that we can execute on our vision and adapt to market dynamics, and DSG has been a long-term partner who has believed in our journey from day one.

How do you plan to deploy this round of funding — is it more about technology, expansion, or brand building?

A mix of all three. A large part will go into strengthening our tech platform and operational automation, followed by expanding into new geographies and accommodation categories, including Vista residences, to meet evolving traveller needs. Additionally, a significant focus will be on elevating our brand presence in the Indian market.

The villa rental market in India is projected to reach $34.1 billion by 2029. What trends are you seeing that will shape this growth?

Key trends include the shift towards experiential travel, family vacations, and the rise of premium staycations. There’s also growing demand from corporates for offsite retreats and celebrations in private spaces.

With flexible work and rising disposable income, how is your typical customer evolving?

Our customer is no longer just the leisure weekend traveller. We’re seeing working professionals booking mid-week stays, families choosing extended vacations, and millennials celebrating special occasions in style.

Are international travellers a part of your future growth roadmap, especially with the rising appeal of Indian destinations?

Absolutely. India is fast becoming a sought-after destination for global travellers seeking offbeat luxury. We plan to deepen our reach in inbound travel markets.

StayVista has become synonymous with luxury getaways. Which is your personal favourite StayVista property — and why?

Mudra Manor is my personal favourite. Mudra Manor by StayVista is a grand, pastel-hued villa in Coorg that blends elegance with nature’s charm, featuring a temperature-controlled infinity pool overlooking a river. Surrounded by lush coffee plantations and scenic trails, it offers a luxurious escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway from Bangalore.

How do you define luxury today — especially for the modern Indian traveller looking for escape and comfort?

Luxury today is about privacy, personalisation, and authenticity. It’s the freedom to slow down, feel at home, and enjoy curated local experiences without sacrificing comfort.

You operate in over 100 locations — from hill stations to beach towns. What are the top three hidden gems or offbeat destinations in your portfolio?

Vaana in Lonavala for glamping luxury, Artisanal Heights in Una for its Bali-inspired design and serene mountain views, and Alpha & Peek-A-Boo in Kashmir for their stunning A-frame cottages set against breathtaking valley views.

How does StayVista weave in local culture, food, or design aesthetics into each villa experience?

Each villa’s design draws inspiration from its surroundings — whether it’s Portuguese-inspired architecture in Goa or charming wooden chalets in Himachal. Our menus celebrate regional flavours, and our curated experiences immerse guests in local culture, from guided trails to sightseeing.