Riots damage tourism in Gannan

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Source: CCTV.com | 04-03-2008 13:35

The Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Northwest China's Gansu Province is widely known for its vast grasslands and unique Tibetan cultural heritage. Millions of tourists come here every year, especially during spring -- the best travel season for the region. However, the March riots in Tibet and surrounding areas have brought tourism in the prefecture to one of the lowest levels ever.

Outside the temple sits a street full of souvenir shops. Many owners complained about poor business during the past month.

The prestigious Labolung Temple is located in a river valley. The temple alone generates hundreds of million of yuan in tourism revenue annually. This time of the year is usually the turning point from low season to high season for travellers. But at the moment, only local Tibetans can be spotted across the temple, walking along the prayer wheel path.

Outside the temple sits a street full of souvenir shops. Many owners complained about poor business during the past month.

Shop owner Ma Xingrong said, "We almost haven't earned a penny since the riots started."

Not far away from the Labolung Temple, a lama named Xirab manages a hostel and an art center specializes in Tangka the famous Tibetan art form. His shop is usually crowded with buyers. But now he cannot help but sit back and relax.

Not far away from the Labolung Temple, a lama named Xirab manages a hostel and an art center specializes in Tangka the famous Tibetan art form. His shop is usually crowded with buyers. But now he cannot help but sit back and relax.

Xirab, manager of Xirab Tangka Art Center, said, "The riots have affected my business a lot. But I hope things get better after the May holiday."

Xirab learned the handicraft of Tangka for 30 years at the Labolung Temple. He is planning to open a Tibetan restaurant and a Tangka art school after tourism resumes in the region.

Editor:Zhang Ning