Every spring, bright pink peach blossoms blanket Galai Village, nestled in the southeastern part of the Xizang Autonomous Region. Dawa Gyaltsen, who welcomed President Xi Jinping in his home four years ago, says March and April are the village’s busiest months.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Xizang Autonomous Region’s founding. President Xi Jinping replied to a letter from villagers, urging them to preserve the plateau’s natural beauty, expand the 'Peach Blossom Village' brand, and help build a prosperous, stable frontier.
Over six decades, Galai transformed from a remote farming community into a budding hub for eco-tourism and local entrepreneurship. Residents have launched homestays, organic orchards, and cultural workshops that celebrate local heritage while creating new income streams.
Local officials report that sustainable travel initiatives have boosted visitor numbers, fueling innovations like mobile guides and digital storytelling platforms. For young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, Galai’s blossom season is a case study in how rural regions can leverage digital tools to share their stories.
As blossoms give way to summer greenery, villagers like Dawa are already planning next year’s festival. With support from Beijing and a renewed sense of pride, Galai Village shows how community-driven efforts can nurture both culture and economic growth.
For eco-travelers, startup founders scouting emerging markets, and thought leaders exploring sustainability in action, Galai Village offers a glimpse into Xizang’s growing prosperity and the power of grassroots change.
Reference(s):
Galai Village: A glimpse into the heart of Xizang's growing prosperity
cgtn.com
