In a world where travel has become an integral part of life, Shubham Pille, the 29-year-old visionary entrepreneur, has redefined how people experience journeys. At the age of 26, armed with ₹50 lakh in initial capital, Shubham launched Stay Ukiyo with a clear mission: to offer travelers safe, verified, and memorable stays across India. Over three years, his startup has achieved a GMV of ₹18 crores, proving that passion, vision, and commitment can turn ideas into thriving enterprises.
Shubham’s inspiration came during the global upheaval caused by COVID-19. The pandemic transformed travel expectations overnight. People sought not just destinations but trustworthy spaces that felt like home. Shubham recognized this gap: while travelers had numerous options online, the uncertainty surrounding quality, hygiene, and overall experience often led to disappointment. He decided to bridge this gap by creating a brand that combined design, trust, and meticulous curation.
Stay Ukiyo offers a variety of homes, thoughtfully categorized into Classic, Luxe, and Elite, not merely as price tiers but as distinctive experiences. Every property is carefully vetted before being listed. From the floors to the furniture and even culinary offerings, Shubham ensures that each stay meets the high standards of the brand. The company’s USP lies in its Ukiyo-verified properties, personalized concierge services, and curated add-ons such as chefs, chauffeurs, and live entertainment. Partners like Saffron Stay, Stay Elivaas, Stay Vista, Anavrin, Higher Villa, and Jalanta Stays have contributed to creating a diverse and premium portfolio.
Shubham’s philosophy is simple: great experiences are made in the details. Whether it is ensuring the air conditioning works perfectly, the pool is pristine, or the chef knows a guest’s preferences, every touchpoint matters. This meticulous attention to detail has earned Stay Ukiyo recognition in the industry. Awards like 40 under 40 – Young Leaders, Big Impact 2025, India’s Leading Brand – Rising Star 2024 by The Brand Story, and accolades from The Classic Holidays and Stay Vista highlight the company’s remarkable growth and influence.
However, the entrepreneurial journey was not without its challenges. Shubham faced struggles in people management, brand partnerships, and operational complexities. “There were days when nothing felt in control,” he recalls. The loss of his father added a personal layer of urgency to his professional ambitions, motivating him to step up for his family while striving to leave a meaningful legacy. He emphasizes the importance of seeking advice, building networks, and leveraging mentors, whether family, industry experts, or professional advisors.
The opportunity in the market became evident as travelers increasingly sought privacy, flexibility, and personalized experiences—something that traditional hotels could not always provide. Stay Ukiyo not only addresses the needs of travelers but also creates avenues for property owners, boosts tourism in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and strengthens local economies. By offering a seamless interface for booking, combined with human support for tours, transportation, and events, Stay Ukiyo ensures that every stay feels curated, memorable, and hassle-free.
Shubham’s entrepreneurial style reflects a blend of innocence, patience, and gratitude. He approaches work as a blessing rather than a burden, staying consistent, hungry to improve, and focused on building a lasting brand. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is equally grounded: gain hands-on experience, invest in learning, embrace AI and technology, work hard, and celebrate small wins along the journey.
Ultimately, Stay Ukiyo represents more than a business; it is a manifestation of Shubham’s vision to make every traveler feel at home, no matter where they are. By combining verified quality, attention to detail, and a human touch, Shubham Pille has established a model for modern hospitality that balances growth, experience, and empathy.
