Explore transformative travel experiences with TigerPaws by Spashram, blending adventure, culture, and sustainability.
In the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, where the sacred Ganges winds its way through tranquil valleys, one man’s journey to create transformative travel experiences for others began. Inder Jit Singh, known affectionately as “IJ,” has spent decades leading adventurers into some of the most challenging, yet spiritually enriching, landscapes in the world. But his mission goes beyond simply guiding a group of travelers on a tour. It’s about offering them a connection — not just with nature, but with themselves and the communities they visit. Through his brands, TigerPaws by Spashram and Spashram RiverMountain Retreat, Singh has crafted a legacy that empowers women, celebrates environmental sustainability, and fosters an understanding of diverse cultures. The heart of his work is simple: creating unforgettable journeys that offer profound personal transformation.
The Beginning of a Dream: A Life Inspired by Adventure
Inder Jit Singh’s path to becoming a pioneering figure in eco-tourism and adventure travel wasn’t linear. Born and raised in Northeast India, a region known for its matriarchal society and deeply rooted traditions, Singh developed an early love for the outdoors and a keen interest in different cultures. In the 1980s, he began his career by organizing special interest and adventure programs for American female travelers, school groups, and collegiate organizations. This marked the birth of TigerPaws, a company designed to curate once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.
What set Singh apart early on was his ability to combine adventure with a purpose. His clients didn’t just want to see exotic landscapes; they wanted to connect with local communities in a meaningful way. With TigerPaws, Singh set out to craft customized itineraries that would take travelers on more than just a scenic tour — they would embark on journeys of self-discovery and cultural immersion.
A Shift Toward Holistic Travel: From Adventure to Conservation
By the mid-1990s, Singh’s career took a significant turn toward conservation and holistic wellness, further shaping his philosophy of eco-tourism. His pioneering work in white-water rafting on the Ganges River, near Rishikesh, soon evolved into something much greater. As his personal interests deepened into meditation, yoga, and Ayurveda, he created Spashram — a retreat dedicated to helping travelers connect with nature while embracing personal growth. This transition marked a defining moment in Singh’s journey. What began as a passion for adventure became a mission to fuse environmental conservation with wellness, spirituality, and cultural understanding.
The retreat’s location near the Ganges was no accident. The river, revered in Indian culture as a lifeline, became a symbol for Singh’s holistic approach to life and travel. Spashram, nestled within the Himalayan foothills, offered a sanctuary where guests could immerse themselves in nature, practice yoga, and delve into Ayurvedic healing practices — all while contributing to local conservation efforts.
Recognition and International Acclaim
Over the years, Singh’s ventures garnered widespread recognition. His commitment to eco-tourism earned him a spot as one of the first five recipients of the Environmental Fellowship Award from the Asia Foundation in San Francisco in 1994. This was followed by the Bio-Diversity Conservation Network (BCN) award for sustainability planning through eco-tourism in the Eastern Himalayas.Singh’s influence didn’t stop at recognition; he became a key figure in the eco-tourism movement, particularly for international travelers seeking an authentic and responsible experience.
Most recently, TigerPaws by Spashram has been recognized as the ‘Best Women-Centric Travel Programs in India of 2025.’ This prestigious award was announced on EvergreenAwards.com, a leading authority in the travel industry, further solidifying Singh’s commitment to empowering women through travel.
Singh’s reach extended beyond the Himalayas. His ability to craft tailored travel experiences for diverse groups led him to lead numerous tours for the American Embassy Schools in New Delhi and the American Alumni Association. One of his proudest accomplishments was organizing trips that facilitated cross-cultural dialogue between U.S. travelers and matriarchal communities in Northeast India. He also led seniors on expeditions across Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, where they even witnessed at close quarters, the unique ” World Nomad Games”.
In addition to Asia, Singh’s expertise took him to East and Southern Africa, where he crafted memorable safaris and cultural excursions. His holistic approach to tourism was not about mass-market tours; it was about creating deeply personal experiences. “IJ, you’ve opened my eyes to an amazing wide world,” said Ellen Race, a racehorse owner from California, reflecting the life-changing impact of Singh’s tours. “Inder Jit, I’ve lived my dreams after retiring through the adventures you created for me in Africa, India, and China — the land of my birth,” shared Hsi Han, a retired professor from the U.S.
TigerPaws by Spashram Today: Empowering Through Travel
Today, TigerPaws by Spashram stands as a testament to Singh’s decades of experience, a brand that blends adventure with mindfulness, culture, and sustainability. But what truly makes Singh’s brand stand out from the competition is his ability to understand the psyche of travelers and the local communities they engage with. Singh, having lived and worked in various parts of the world, knows how to create travel experiences that resonate on a personal level. He doesn’t just sell packages; he offers transformations.
At the heart of Singh’s work is a focus on empowerment, especially for women. Throughout his career, Singh has created opportunities for women to travel, explore, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. His eco-tourism programs allow women travelers to engage meaningfully with host communities, experiencing the world from a new perspective.
TigerPaws by Spashram is also distinct in its ability to offer highly flexible and personalized tours. Singh’s deep knowledge of the regions he operates in, combined with his understanding of diverse cultural needs, ensures that every journey is unique. The tours are designed to adapt to the travelers’ own interests and the needs of the communities they visit. Whether it’s a serene yoga retreat by the Ganges or a challenging trekking expedition in the Eastern Himalayas, Singh’s commitment to safety, personal growth, and community engagement shines through.
For those seeking not just a vacation, but a transformative journey that aligns with their values, TigerPaws by Spashram offers a rare opportunity. Whether you’re looking for adventure, peace, or cultural immersion, each journey is carefully crafted to offer more than just a trip — it’s a life-altering experience. Visit http://www.tigerpawjourneys.com/ or Spashram RiverMountain Retreat today to explore how you can be part of the legacy of mindful travel and personal transformation that Inder Jit Singh has dedicated his life to.
You can also check out this Review of Tigerpaw India Adventures, New Delhi, India on Tripadvisor to learn more about the experience!
