Shigatse 3900m
In the morning visit Gyantse's monastery – Pelkor Choede – and the justifiably famous Kumbum, within the same complex. There may also be time to visit the dzong (fort) that towers above the town. In the afternoon we ride along the valley to Shigatse. Tashilhunpo is the seat of the Panchen Lama, second only in importance to the Dalai Lama. Its numerous halls contain a 21.6-meter wooden statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha and elaborate, jewel encrusted reliquary chorten. The afternoon is free to explore the old market, or perhaps visit the carpet factory where hand-woven carpets are made to traditional designs.

Below Tso-La
Gyatso La 5220m
Xegar 4050m
Two days take you across the Yulung La (4950m) and the highest pass of the trip, the 5220-meter Gyatso-La to Xegar.

Pang-La 5200m
Tashidzom 4090m
Rhongphu 5000m
Everest Base Camp 5200m
Rest day
Turn off the Friendship Highway for a stunning ride through Qomolangma Nature Preserve to the top of the 5200m Pang-La (pass) for a superb panoramic view from Manaklu to Shishapangma. Then its a downhill stretch to Tashidzom. As we climb barley fields give way to barren valleys of glacial debris. Finally reach the tiny Rhongphu Gompa at 5000m. The view from here is utterly spectacular! It is then 7 kilometers to Base Camp at 5200m.

Lao Tingri 4390m
below Lalung-La
Heading back to the Friendship Highway and on to Lao Tingri for a last glimpse of the great mountain.