Sea of apricot flowers draws tourists to Pamir Plateau (3)

Spring has transformed a river valley village into a picturesque landscape. [Photo/Xinhua]

Since the flower season started in late March, Kukik, a Tajik homestay owner, said his family has earned more than 1,000 yuan a day for several days. Through farming and sheep herding, his family could barely earn 3,000 yuan a year.

From the city of Kashgar, a visitor needs at least a day to reach the township by car. Hidden deep in the mountains, many township herders are still living in poverty. The annual income provided by a herd is only 2,000 yuan, on average, said Meng Meng, the township's Party chief.

The country has placed poverty-alleviation on the top of its agenda, and over the next five years, the local government will enact a series of measures to improve the villagers' lives, including road and electrical projects, Meng said.

With improved infrastructure, Mamatbag Izbag, a local official, said he expects more visitors in the future.