In April 2026, as peach blossoms blanketed the valleys of Nyingchi, a special tourist train carrying over 330 visitors arrived, signaling the start of the 23rd Nyingchi Peach Blossom Tourism event. For the visitors, it was a scenic spring getaway; for the residents of Galai Village, it was a testament to a long-term commitment to ecological preservation.
Known as the "First Peach Blossom Village" of Xizang, Galai Village has undergone a remarkable transformation. Decades ago, the village faced extreme poverty and isolation. In 2000, annual per capita income was less than 2,000 yuan ($241), with the local economy relying heavily on logging, grazing, and highland barley farming.
Rather than sacrificing its ancient wild peach trees for short-term economic gain, the village pivoted toward a sustainable future. By protecting its ecological resources and developing rural tourism, Galai Village turned its environment into its greatest asset. With more than 1,200 wild peach trees, the village hosted its first festival in 2002, laying the groundwork for a new economic engine.
This success was bolstered by strategic government investment in roads and bridges, as well as a paired assistance program from Guangdong Province. A tourism cooperative was established, allowing villagers to contribute land shares. This model ensures that a portion of the revenue is distributed among residents while another part is reinvested directly into ecological conservation.
The results are evident. This year alone, the village earned over 2.6 million yuan during the peak peach blossom season. However, Galai Village is no longer dependent solely on the spring bloom. The local economy has diversified through the creation of value-added products, including peach blossom pastries and essential oils.
Furthermore, the village has extended its appeal into the winter months. From last November to this March, over 5,000 students and tourists visited for educational travel programs and Xizang New Year experience tours, ensuring a year-round flow of sustainable growth that honors the region's natural heritage.
Reference(s):
How Xizang balances tourism growth and ecological protection
cgtn.com
