Arrived near Tianshui the evening of Saturday 22nd September at a home-stay close by to Maiji Shan (haystack mountain) caves. About 200 caves full of Buddhist carvings and statues. Had to climb a steep staircase to see the caves, unfortunately many were closed off but the views were stunning. At the base of the cliffs are a botanical garden and a waterfall further up complete with sign warning us not to venture further due to wild boar and black bear.
In the village for lunch and no English menus, Kathy impersonated a chicken and we got given omelettes to eat and then watched the locals playing what looked like chess in the streets.
Next Stop Xiahe (aka Little Tibet) a mountain valley 3000 metres above sea level. Home to Labrang Monastery which houses the yellow hat sect and is the biggest Tibetan monastery after Lhasa. An English speaking monk took us around the temples, although difficult to understand his English he was a very happy chappy indeed. Heard the monks chanting early morning prayers and later gathering in the square.
Burning of juniper branches for prosperity and walking the kora, a 3km circuit around the Monastery spinning the prayers wheels alongside many Tibetan pilgrims. 
Took a trip up to Ganjia grasslands, arriving first at the prayer flags on a hill top at altitude of 3300 metres. Views are stunning with snow topped mountains in the distance, bluebells and thistles in the grass.
A visit to a black hat monastery
and then on to the ancient (2000 years old) walled village of Bajiao where saw the locals going about traditional chores including washing wool, clothes and lots of haystacks. One of my favourite days so far!
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