Lately, Uyghur Muslims in the old city of Kashgar, Xinjiang have pioneered home tourism, providing Chinese and foreign tourists with new enchanting experiences. New avenue of livelihood have opened the door to wealth for local Muslims and greatly improved their living standards. Nearly 300 home tourist attractions have sprouted in the old city of Kashgar, brimming with history of 2000 years and prosperous civilization. According to a Gwadar Pro's report, roaming around freely and passing through Kashi market, integral part of ancient Silk Road, the delegation of Pakistani media and think tanks was welcomed by a family in their home converted into high-class tourism spot which was professionally bedecked by traditional exterior, colorful façade and mesmerizing arch.

Having greeted at main door, the family members invited the delegation to enter with candid smile. They guided the delegation to sit on chairs and served local delights, special eating stuff and indigenous Kashgar tea. With the warm reception, family members and staff warmed the hearts of the delegation with singing, dancing and musical performances. When talking to owner of home “Shalamat Gul”, she introduced that she pioneered the idea of home tourism here. “I converted my home into commercial entity and shaped it to home like spot for tourists.”

“We provide tourists with cozy accommodation, just like hotels. The appearance of these accommodations is similar to traditional Kashgar Old Town residents’ homes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in traditional ways. Frankly speaking, tourists feel our way of life all the time,” she elucidated. “In peak season,” she said, “we can earn RMB 10, 000 every day. I have engaged many family members in the profession; besides, some Uyghur guys are employed in order to ensure the best service to tourists.” In the international tourism market, “hom tourism” in the old city of Kashgar has become popular for its awesome features. This business is playing a vital role in the socio-economic development of Uyghur Muslims.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China