Recreational and touristic resources of the Kitab-Shahrisabz talweg and its rationale in geography
Abstract
The Kitab-Shahrisabz thalweg, located in Uzbekistan, offers immense potential as a sustainable tourism destination due to its unique geographical and ecological attributes. Spanning 75 kilometers and featuring diverse landscapes, the region boasts five biodiversity hotspots, moderate climatic conditions, and cultural landmarks such as Shahrisabz, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This study highlights the thalweg's capacity to support year-round tourism activities, including trekking, camping, and eco-tourism, while also addressing the socio-economic benefits of tourism. Survey results indicate strong community support for tourism-driven economic growth (74%) and cultural preservation (68%), though 56% expressed concerns about environmental degradation. Visitor trends since 2021 reveal consistent growth, with historical tours (54%) and nature-based experiences such as trekking (42%) being the most popular activities. However, challenges such as environmental impacts, inadequate infrastructure, and limited community capacity require strategic interventions. Recommendations include sustainable tourism planning, eco-friendly infrastructure development, community engagement, and monitoring mechanisms to mitigate negative impacts. By integrating conservation, cultural preservation, and economic growth, the Kitab-Shahrisabz thalweg can serve as a model for sustainable tourism, balancing ecological integrity with regional development.