CCTV has been following the Sichuan-Tibet highway and experiencing the lives of Tibetans living alongside it. They've now arrived at Gongbo'Gyamda County in Nyingchi Prefecture, in southwestern Tibet Autonomous Region. Cui Lingnan looks at how the highway is benefiting the local economy.

High on the roof of the world, Tibet has always attracted adventurous cyclists and backpackers.

Even with an average age of 60, these three cyclists think it's more than a worthwhile journey.

Luo Yihao, cyclist, said, "We live in the locals' homes, we feel their hospitality and culture, we feel the closeness between ethnic groups. You can't experience it if you are behind a steering wheel."

These men and women are measuring the plateau with their strides. As they enjoy the scenery, they encounter kindness everyday.

Li Haiyan, backpacker, said, "We hitch-hike any vehicle--trucks, cars and police vans. Police vans are the friendliest, they'll give us a ride any time as long as there's room."

A thirty minute drive from here and heading towards Lhasa, this village used to be, and still is, an important stop for commercial traffic.

The local government renovated the village in 2005 in traditional Tibetan style--and as a tourist destination.

Ciyangren, family hotel owner, said, "The environment is just one advantage, also it's full of ethnical characteristics. We believe this place will be even better in the future."

Villagers say what they've learnt from agricultural experts has increased their income.

The county has risen from being one of the poorest in Tibet, to one of the ten richest. Last year's GDP reached more than 600 million yuan, an increase of more than 18 percent compared to a year earlier.