"Environmental protection and culture will be essential for Tibet tourism in the future," said Tsewang Tashi, Board chairman of the Everest Group of Tibet.

As one of the leading enterprises exploring Tibet tourism since early 2000, the Everest Group of Tibet has developed several famous scenic spots such as Yamzhog Yumco Lake, Namtso Lake and Guge Castle, in its 10-year development, he realized the importance of environmental protection.

"Environmental protection and culture will be essential for Tibet tourism in the future"
[Photo by Phoenix/ China Tibet Online]

"I was born and grew up here, I love this place and I hope more people can see the majestic and mysterious snowland here, especially those interested in my hometown. However, Tibet's fragile ecological environment has borne a heavy burden by swarms of tourists, so we attached great importance on environmental protection." he said.

"For example, we built up environment-friendly mobile toilets at Yamzhog Yumco Lake, and allocate green cars at scenic spots to serve tourists. Though it is a long-term investment on environmental protection, we still believe that it will benefit us, both tourists and our offspring." Tsewang Tashi added.

On the other hand, culture is another focus in Tsewang's eye. As more people pay attention to culture, they are no longer satisfied with marvelous scenery. Moreover, they are eager to know more stories or folk lords behind the spots. Thus, tourist-oriented items targeting on culture, including folk and religion are developed to cater different needs.

With an investment of 20 million yuan, the singing and dancing performance named "happiness on the road" was staged in 2007, which showcases musical instrument terz guitar, traditional Tibetan dancing such as "Dui Xie", a kind of Tibetan style tap dancing etc.

Tibet aims at building "larger, stronger and better distinctive tourist  industry" to make it a key global travel destination during the 12th Five-Year Plan period (2011--2015). It should also attach great importance to both culture and environment inits planning, accordinig to Tsewang.