INTEGRATING THE HISTORICAL HERITAGE OF THE KAREZ SETTLEMENT INTO A TOURISM ROUTE

Abstract

This article examines the conditions for integrating the engineering and cultural heritage of Karez settlement near Turkestan into a tourism route. The aim is to develop evidence-based interpretive content, assess tourism readiness and propose a pilot route and evaluation framework. The study combines critical comparison of historical materials, descriptive analysis of official statistics and qualitative readiness assessment. The irrigation system, accounts of Bakzhahan Garden and settlement history are organised into three interpretive units. Official statistics show that visitors served by accommodation facilities in Turkestan region increased from 253,454 in 2022 to 302,807 in 2024; these figures do not measure demand for Karez. The analysis distinguishes interpretive potential from operational readiness. Outputs include a proposed 60–90-minute on-site module, conditions for integration into a city tour, and indicators covering demand, local services and heritage conservation. No pilot tour was conducted, and visitor numbers or economic impacts are not presented as empirical findings. The contribution is a site-specific framework connecting historical resources with visitor interpretation, operational decisions and measurable outcomes.