Locations"I dream that my grandchildren will continue this work, preserving our traditions of hospitality" - An Inspiring Story from Arstanbap
UNDP / Kyrgyzstan
Khusnidin lives in the shade of Arstanbap's famous walnut forests. His story inspires many aspiring tourism entrepreneurs. His journey began in 2008 with a small souvenir trade for the rare tourists who ventured into these parts. At that time, the number of travelers to the region didn't exceed 1,000 per year.
"I always knew our Arstanbap was special. Where else can you find such ancient walnut forests and mountain landscapes? I wanted to show this beauty to people, but souvenirs alone weren't enough," Khusnidin recalls.
By 2014, Khusnidin was already a professional guide leading tourists along mountain trails. "Each tour is a new story, new acquaintances. Tourists often ask where to stay in an authentic atmosphere and get to know the local culture better," he says.
These conversations pushed him toward a vital decision: In 2018, he opened the "Dostuk" guesthouse. The name, which translates to "Friendship," wasn't chosen by accident—every guest becomes a friend here.
UNDP / Kyrgyzstan
With UNDP support, the guesthouse's service quality significantly improved, allowing for increased added value at every stage of guest service. Through the "Aid for Trade" project, a reliable alternative power supply system was provided through solar panel installation, stable internet access was established, and a modern heating system was installed. These improvements led to a significant increase in tourist comfort, growth in their numbers, and, as a result, a 30% increase in guesthouse revenue. The infrastructure improvements also expanded services: guests can now access laundry, catering, and tour organization. Additionally, five new jobs were created, bringing the total number of employees to 10.
Thanks to UNDP training, staff qualification improvement, and the implementation of international service standards, the guesthouse now attracts more financially capable clients, including foreign tourists, increasing the average revenue per guest by 40%.
Khusnidin is incredibly proud of his family. His wife, two sons, and daughter—all eleven family members—contribute to the family business. "My children learn hospitality, respect for nature, and traditions from childhood. For them, it's not just a business but a way of life," he says.
It's important to note that Khusnidin's family has been actively participating in preserving Arstanbap's nature since 2010. They organize community cleanups and teach tourists about forest conservation. Over the past three years, they've helped plant over 100 walnut tree seedlings and cleaned several kilometers of tourist trails.
"Our success isn't measured by numbers alone. The main thing is to see how our village is transforming, how interest in our culture and nature is growing. I dream that my grandchildren will continue this work, preserving our traditions of hospitality," says Khusnidin.
His story shows how love for one's homeland, hard work, and the constant pursuit of development can turn a small dream into a successful family business that feeds the family and contributes to the development of the entire region.
UNDP / Kyrgyzstan
