The famous Labrang Monastery is nestled in the middle of the small town called Xiahe in southern Gansu. Long roofed hallways sheltering the prayer wheels serve as markers of the old pilgrims' route, and completely encircle the monastery. Several times a day, pilgrims walk clockwise around the monastery, spinning each prayer wheel as they pass to send their prayers directly to heaven.

© copyright 1998 ChinaScape