Megha Das 
In the bustling world of travel and tourism, where every destination competes for attention, one man stands out for his unwavering commitment to unveiling the hidden gems of Northeast India. Himangshu Baruah, the founder of Finderbridge, is a trailblazer whose visionary approach is redefining tourism in this less-explored region. This feature delves into the story of Himangshu Baruah and his groundbreaking startup, Finderbridge, which is poised to elevate Northeast India to a global tourism hotspot.
A Vision Rooted in Identity
Hailing from Assam, Himangshu Baruah’s journey began with a profound realization during his engineering studies at Pondicherry University. Surrounded by peers who knew little about Northeast India, Himangshu faced an identity crisis. This stark lack of awareness ignited a mission in him: to bridge the information gap and showcase the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of his homeland.
The Birth of Finderbridge
Finderbridge was born from this mission in 2018. With no external funding, Himangshu embarked on a bootstrap journey, transforming his initial concept of a comprehensive informational website into a full-fledged tourism company. Finderbridge is not just another travel agency; it is an end-to-end tourism organization committed to promoting sustainable and community-based tourism.
Diverse Tour Offerings
Finderbridge distinguishes itself with a wide array of tourism services, each designed to offer unique experiences. From luxury tours to cultural, tribal, wildlife, birding, and bike tours, Finderbridge caters to diverse interests. This specialization is a testament to Himangshu’s deep understanding of the varied and rich heritage of Northeast India. Each tour segment is meticulously curated to provide an immersive experience, connecting travelers with the region’s essence.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Launching a startup in the underdeveloped startup ecosystem of Northeast India posed significant challenges. Himangshu faced a scarcity of quality talent and funding platforms. Despite these hurdles, his innovative spirit shone through. Understanding the potential of content in tourism, Himangshu focused on creating high-quality, engaging content that highlights the unique attractions of Northeast India. This strategic move has set Finderbridge apart from conventional travel agencies.
Sustainable and Community-Based Tourism
Sustainability lies at the heart of Finderbridge’s operations. Himangshu believes in tourism that benefits everyone – the environment, local communities, and travelers. This philosophy is evident in Finderbridge’s initiatives, such as community-based tourism, which empowers local populations and preserves cultural heritage. The company also emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring that tourism development does not come at the cost of the environment.
Educational Initiatives
Another innovative step by Finderbridge is the establishment of the Northeast Tourism Academy. Recognizing the need for professional training in the tourism sector, Himangshu launched this initiative to educate and empower the next generation of tourism professionals. Through seminars, workshops, and courses, the academy has trained over 500 students and professionals, significantly contributing to the region’s tourism infrastructure.
Technological Excellence
In today’s digital age, a robust online presence is crucial. Finderbridge’s online portal stands as a testament to this, with a Google performance score of 94% and a lightning-fast load time of just over 1 second. Finderbridge’s website is a treasure trove of meticulously documented itineraries and captivating visuals, providing potential travellers with an in-depth preview of what awaits them. This focus on technology and content ensures a seamless user experience, setting a benchmark in the industry.
Future Ambitions
Himangshu’s ambitions extend far beyond Northeast India. Once the local tourism ecosystem is fully developed, Finderbridge aims to connect Northeast India with Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Australia. This global outreach strategy is designed to attract a diverse array of tourists, boosting the region’s economy and cultural Exchange.
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
Himangshu Baruah’s journey with Finderbridge is a compelling narrative of passion, innovation, and resilience. His dedication to promoting Northeast India, coupled with a sustainable and community-focused approach, positions Finderbridge as a beacon in the tourism industry. Himangshu’s story is a powerful reminder that with vision and perseverance, it is possible to transform challenges into opportunities and make a lasting impact.
