Mrs. Mythili Pandian, Director of Cholan Tours
Mrs. Mythili Pandian is a dynamic travel professional with over two decades of experience. As the Director of Cholan Tours, based in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, she leads one of India’s fastest-growing travel companies. Under her leadership, Cholan Tours has won multiple national and state awards as the best inbound and domestic tour operator in recent years. The company is renowned for its well-curated South Indian itineraries, highly regarded by the global travel community. Their heritage and cultural tours, guided by expert storytellers and knowledgeable guides, serve as their unique selling points.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2025, the Tourism India editorial team had an insightful conversation with Mrs. Mythili Pandian, Director of Cholan Tours & Travels. Here are the key excerpts from the interview.
What inspired you to step into the travel and tourism industry and take charge of the operational side of Cholan Tours?
I have always loved working with people, and tourism is a people-centric industry. It is a chain of individuals who need to work in perfect synchrony to design seamless holidays and create happiness for travelers. My husband, Pandian, often says that making people happy is one of the most challenging tasks, and I completely agree. Every individual is unique, with different expectations and perspectives, making this industry both fascinating and demanding.
Over the years, my experience working with diverse individuals has helped me develop a deeper understanding of leadership and team dynamics. It has taught me how to inspire and drive people toward achieving results efficiently while fostering a positive and goal-oriented work culture.
Taking charge of the operational side of Cholan Tours was a natural progression for me, driven by my commitment to delivering seamless, high-quality services while ensuring efficiency and innovation in our processes.
As the backbone of your company’s day-to-day operations, what are the biggest challenges you face, and how do you manage them?
The tourism industry is highly dynamic and ever-evolving. What may seem seamless today can quickly turn into a challenge if we don’t anticipate, plan and respond to changes. One of the biggest challenges is managing last-minute surprises – be it flight cancellation or a trip getting cancelled due to emergency or health issues, etc, as we work with people, and human expectations can be unpredictable.
To manage this, we need to be proactive in planning, be flexible, and communicate clearly down the line. Being prepared for contingencies and maintaining a problem-solving mindset is very important. In my understanding, if we apply simple common sense and stay calm under pressure, we can easily manage any situation.
Cholan Tours is recognized for its curated cultural and heritage experiences in South India. What personal values or passions drive your focus on heritage tourism?
India has immense cultural richness, and what we seek is what we discover. Particularly, South India is a treasure trove of heritage, traditions, and timeless stories waiting to be shared. At Cholan Tours, our passion lies in bringing these hidden gems to light, offering travelers an authentic and immersive experience. We take great pride and responsibility in not only showcasing the beauty of South India but also in preserving its heritage and traditions for future generations. Our commitment to heritage tourism is driven by a deep respect for our cultural roots and a desire to create meaningful, lasting connections between travelers and India’s rich history.
Running a business while your husband travels extensively for expansion is a unique dynamic. How do you balance roles and ensure smooth coordination?
Cholan Tours is now an established company with more than 2 decades of experience. So, we have structured all our systems and procedures in place. One of the biggest advantages for us is the dedicated team, who are an asset to the company. Most of them have been working with us since the company’s inception. So their experience, commitment and thorough training enables them to handle things independently, even in our absence. Additionally, we keep our communication clear with our team and delegate responsibilities appropriately, and mutual trust within our team plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth coordination. This strong foundation allows us to balance our roles effectively while supporting the company’s continued growth.”
Your company is known for its exceptional service standards, including well-trained chauffeurs. What is your approach to maintaining such high-quality service in the industry?
At Cholan Tours, we believe that exceptional service begins with a well-supported and motivated team. We are proud to be the only company in South India that has enrolled all our staff in PF and ESI, along with extending medical insurance benefits to our employees, drivers, and their families. By genuinely caring for their well-being and ensuring their basic needs are met, we have earned their trust and loyalty. In turn, this dedication translates into their commitment to delivering outstanding service, maintaining the high standards that define Cholan Tours.
What skills do you think women need to cultivate to succeed as business leaders in the travel and tourism sector?
In the travel and tourism sector, women aspiring to be successful business leaders should cultivate a mix of strategic, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability are essential, as this industry often presents dynamic and unforeseen challenges. Keeping a calm and composed mindset under pressure indeed helps in tackling critical situations effectively. Additionally, skills such as clear communication, decision-making, resilience, and a deep understanding of customer service are crucial. Building strong networks and continuously staying updated on industry trends also play a key role in long-term success.
Have you faced gender-related challenges as a leader in the tourism industry? If so, how have you navigated them?
Despite progress in celebrating women through events like Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, gender bias remains a reality in many aspects of life, including the tourism industry. However, I believe that rather than focusing on comparisons with men, it is more important to acknowledge and embrace the unique strengths that women bring to leadership roles.
As a woman entrepreneur, I have learned that diplomacy, tact, and strategic thinking are key to overcoming gender-related challenges. Leadership success requires the ability to navigate different levels of business relationships with confidence, resilience, and adaptability. By focusing on competence, building strong networks, and earning respect through actions rather than comparisons, women can break barriers and thrive in the industry
Do you think the tourism sector is evolving to be more inclusive for women entrepreneurs? What additional steps can be taken?
Yes, the tourism sector is gradually evolving to be more inclusive for women entrepreneurs. Today, we see more women taking on leadership roles and successfully balancing their professional and personal lives. However, for more women to step into entrepreneurship, a strong support system, both at home and in the workplace, is essential. Encouraging family support, fostering mentorship programs, and creating policies that promote equal opportunities can further empower women in the industry. By building an ecosystem that nurtures women’s ambitions, we can inspire and enable more women entrepreneurs to thrive in tourism.
What policies or industry initiatives would you like to see that better support women in travel and tourism leadership roles?
To better support women in travel and tourism leadership roles, it is essential to implement policies that recognise and celebrate women entrepreneurs as a source of inspiration. Women’s talents, knowledge, and hard work should be recognized and respected. When people appreciate their leadership and see it as valuable, it creates a positive and supportive environment where women can succeed. Additionally, creating mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and networking opportunities can empower women to thrive. Trust and equal opportunities are key to ensuring that women are given the platform they deserve to lead and innovate in the industry
Cholan Tours has recently undergone a brand identity transformation. What was the vision behind this rebranding, and how do you see it impacting your business?
The vision behind Cholan Tours’ brand identity transformation was to reflect our growth, evolution, and commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences. With over two decades in the industry, we felt it was the right time to refresh our brand to better align with our values, modern traveler expectations, and our expanding global presence.
This rebranding reinforces our identity as a trusted and innovative Destination Management Company, showcasing our dedication to quality, authenticity, and personalized service. We believe this transformation will strengthen our market position, enhance brand recognition, and create a deeper connection with our clients, inspiring more travelers to experience the beauty of India with Cholan Tours.
With evolving traveller preferences, how do you ensure that Cholan Tours stays ahead in offering unique and meaningful experiences?
At Cholan Tours, we continuously adapt to evolving traveler preferences by paying close attention to new market trends, customer feedback, and emerging travel experiences. We focus on curating unique, immersive, and meaningful journeys that go beyond conventional tourism.
Our approach includes offering authentic cultural interactions, sustainable travel experiences, and personalized itineraries that cater to diverse traveler interests. We also collaborate with local communities, heritage experts, and luxury hospitality partners to craft enriching experiences.
We use technology, build strong relationships in the travel industry, and focus on excellent service to keep Cholan Tours a top choice for unforgettable travel experiences that today’s travellers love.”
Have you noticed an increase in demand for women-centric travel experiences, and does Cholan Tours offer any special packages tailored for female travellers?
As a specialist in tailor-made tours, we have indeed observed a growing interest in women-centric travel experiences. We already cater to many solo women travellers, ensuring their journeys are safe, comfortable, and enriching. Every itinerary we create is exclusive and personalized, designed to meet the unique preferences and needs of female travellers, whether they seek cultural exploration, wellness retreats, adventure, or leisure travel.
As a woman entrepreneur handling a large-scale operation, how do you balance professional responsibilities with personal life?
As I mentioned earlier, a woman’s success is greatly influenced by the support and understanding she receives from her family. When a woman has a strong support system, there are no limits to what she can achieve. I come from a nuclear family, and my husband and daughter play a crucial role in helping me balance my professional and personal responsibilities. Their encouragement and involvement have been instrumental in my journey, and without them, I wouldn’t have come this far in my career.
At Cholan Tours, we are committed to supporting women in the workplace, with 80% of our staff being women. We prioritize work-life balance by adopting a hybrid work model, allowing women to opt for remote work when needed. This flexibility enables them to manage both their professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
Encouraging women in the workplace is a core value at Cholan Tours, and we strive to provide excellent opportunities for them to grow and excel in both their careers and personal lives
Do you believe mentorship plays a crucial role in empowering women in travel entrepreneurship? Have you mentored or been mentored by others?
Yes, absolutely! Mentorship plays a crucial role in empowering women in travel entrepreneurship. At Cholan Tours, we strongly believe in creating opportunities for experienced professionals to guide and support those who are learning and growing in their careers. In the tourism industry, when an experienced woman entrepreneur mentors a new female entrepreneur by sharing insights and guidance, it can be truly invaluable. Such mentorship not only helps individuals grow but also strengthens the industry as a whole.
At Cholan Tours, we have a unique approach—we prefer to recruit freshers and train them according to our standards rather than hiring experienced professionals. This allows us to shape our team with the right skills, values, and service mindset. As a result, mentorship is deeply embedded in our company culture. I have personally mentored many of my team members, and I see it as an ongoing responsibility to nurture talent and leadership within our organization.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs who want to establish themselves in the travel and tourism business?
Rather than advice, I’d like to share my thoughts with aspiring women entrepreneurs. First and foremost, never give up. Avoid comparing yourself to others, no matter how successful they may be—everyone is unique, and your journey is your own. Focus on identifying your strengths and building on them while working on your weaknesses to eventually overcome them.
Stay positive, and do not let others discourage you. True happiness comes from within, and no one else can give it to you. So, always maintain a cheerful outlook and spread positivity.
Most importantly, share your knowledge if you want to keep growing. Success is not just about personal achievements but also about lifting others along the way. If you have the opportunity to help and uplift someone, don’t hesitate—you will find true success in empowering others.
What do you see as the most promising opportunities for women entrepreneurs in the travel industry today?
The travel industry today offers many exciting opportunities for women entrepreneurs, especially as travellers look for more personalized and meaningful experiences. Women can use their creativity, attention to detail, and strong customer focus to build unique travel businesses.
There’s a growing demand for niche travel, like women-only tours, wellness retreats, eco-friendly travel, and immersive cultural experiences. With digital platforms making it easier than ever to start a business, women can create customized travel experiences, boutique stays, and special interest tours with minimal setup.
Responsible tourism is also on the rise, and women entrepreneurs can play a big role in community-based tourism, heritage preservation, and sustainable travel. By staying innovative, building strong networks, and using technology, women can create meaningful and successful careers in the travel industry
How can male industry leaders and policymakers contribute to creating a more gender-balanced tourism sector?
Male industry leaders and policymakers play an important role in making the tourism sector more inclusive and supportive of women. They can introduce fair policies for hiring, equal pay, and career growth, ensuring more women get leadership opportunities. Providing mentorship programs and leadership training can also encourage women to take on key roles in the industry. Flexible work options, like remote work and family-friendly policies, can help women manage both their jobs and personal lives more easily. By building a culture of respect, teamwork, and equal opportunities, male leaders and policymakers can help create a tourism industry that benefits everyone, making it more diverse and welcoming
What message would you like to share with the next generation of women who aspire to build a career in tourism and hospitality?
To the next generation of women aspiring to build a career in tourism and hospitality, I would say—embrace this industry with passion and confidence. Travel and tourism may not always be the most obvious career choice, but it is one of the most dynamic, rewarding, and exciting fields to work in.
This industry is vibrant, full of life, and constantly evolving. It offers endless opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with people from diverse cultures. A career in tourism keeps you young at heart, broadens your perspectives, and allows you to create meaningful experiences for travellers worldwide.
Stay curious, be open to new challenges, and never stop learning. With dedication, innovation, and a strong sense of service, you can shape a successful and fulfilling career in this ever-growing industry.
Also Read
Strategic Leadership: Overcoming Gender Barriers with Diplomacy and Resilience
Watch on Youtube
