EXPLORING EASTERN TIBET

From Nyingchi to Bome, National Highway 318 threads the most stunning landscapes of eastern Tibet. Bome, in the neighbouring area between the Himalaya and the Nyenchen Tanglha range, is known as the "Swiss Alps of Tibet" — warm in winter, cool in summer, a paradise of primeval forests, snow-capped ranges, holy lakes and splendid glaciers. Above it all rises Namcha Barwa, the 15th highest peak in the world, its colossal triangle body wrapped in snow and mist year-round.

Eastward the road climbs past Rawu Lake to Laigu, where glaciers calve above 4,200-metre meadows, then loops back through the Lulang forest toward the Niyang River valley. Basomtso, the great turquoise alpine lake of the Ba River, shelters Tsozong Gongba Monastery on its island — snowy mountains, crystal water, lush trees, monastery and villages composing what Tibetans regard as a perfect paradise.

All roads lead at last to Lhasa, the "place of gods": the Potala Palace rising above the old town, pilgrims circling the Jokhang along Barkhor Street, sweet tea houses humming with daily life — the converging faith of Tibet, witnessed at journey's end.