https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/helan/best-things-to-do/10072119900000
Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do near Helan [2025]
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Shapotou Scenic Area
4.8
/5
28395 reviews
8.2
From AU$ 12.84
Based on 153 reviews
Shapotou tourist attraction | >100 km from downtown
Phone +864001551766
Address: Shapotou, Zhongwei, Ningxia, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Highlights:
Yellow River heritage & modern entertainment
Experience the charm of the Huanghe by rafting on a sheepskin raft
Saved by 619 users21489 positive reviews
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Our guides are familiar with the history, culture, and local customs of the attractions. They provide accurate and engaging explanations and can answer any questions visitors may have. We plan your itinerary to ensure you'll meet on time, efficiently connect attractions with transportation, and flexibly respond to unexpected situations (such as weather changes or route adjustments).
The scenery at Shapotou is simply amazing! Standing on the observation deck, you can see the boundless desert on one side, with golden sand dunes rolling like waves in the sea; on the other side, the surging Yellow River winds its way through like a giant dragon. This spectacular sight of the desert and the Yellow River meeting can only be seen here, and you can truly appreciate the wonders of nature.
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China West Film Studio
4.5
/5
18191 reviews
7.8
From AU$ 16.27
Based on 86 reviews
Manpu·Seeing Helan Performing Arts Town/Zhenbeipu Western Movie City Resort | 25.1 km from downtown
Phone +8609512136088
Address: East of 110 National Road, zhenbeibao, Xixia District, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Role-play & film a micro-movie
Dress up & be a star
10308 positive reviews10K views in last month
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The Zhenbeibao Western Film City wasn't originally on our itinerary, but it happened to be not far from our Anmo Hotel, so we planned to visit it the next morning. I hadn't read the film city guide beforehand, so I didn't know much about it. However, the section of city wall at the entrance and some of the buildings inside were indeed ancient structures. I had always assumed it was just a filming location for "Journey to the West," but once inside, I saw the names and scenes of many other movies. Overall, it was worth a visit.
Our tour guide, Xiao Zhao, was very skilled. The desert crossing was thrilling and exciting, something I haven't experienced in a while. The aerial video was also excellent and highly recommended.
We recommend renting a car for a group of three with a large weight, as it will provide excellent comfort. Weather is also crucial; sunny weather will produce much better photos.
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The Western Xia Mausoleum
4.5
/5
6888 reviews
7.6
From %1$s
Based on 127 reviews
34.7 km from downtown
Phone +8609515668966
Address: Helan Mountain, Xixia District, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 4-6 hours
Highlights:
Explore Xixia Royal Tombs
Over 200 towering earthen mounds
3834 positive reviews10K views in last month
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A must-see destination in Ningxia, discover the mysterious Western Xia!
As the wind sweeps across the Helan Mountains, scattering the Dangxiang people's armored cavalry, it transforms the rammed earth ruins of the Western Xia Tombs into a three-dimensional history book, engraved with the dynastic past.
Nine imperial tombs, arrayed along the mountainside, stand like silent giants guarding a lost civilization. Each weathered pattern holds the secrets of the Western Xia script and the rise and fall of the Great Xia Empire!
The most amazing thing was the scenic bus we took on the way back from the 3rd tour. The scenery was so beautiful that I wanted to get off the bus and walk. I suggest that you visit the museum first and then go to the mausoleum to see it in person.
No.
4
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The Wave Valley Scenic Area
4.6
/5
1534 reviews
7.4
From AU$ 19.05
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609124830101
Address: Longzhou Township, Jingbian County, Yulin City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Wave-like red sandstone canyon
340-meter 3D bridge spans Wave Valley
Saved by 380 users1181 positive reviews
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The scenic area is very large and beautiful. Walking in it, you can feel the magic and power of nature. I arrived at Yitiantian at 12 noon and saw the sunlight shining directly on the rock wall and moss. It was very beautiful!
I'm glad my notes are helpful. Below is my honest review of the Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area, which I hope will provide further reference.
Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area Review
Scenic Highlights:
Wave Valley is renowned for its unique geological formations. Long-term weathering and water erosion have created undulating rock formations resembling ocean waves, creating a spectacular and dynamic landscape. The rich, layered colors of the rocks are breathtaking, especially when illuminated by sunlight.
Suitable for:
From nature-loving photographers to families seeking relaxation, there's a spot here to delight everyone. The hiking trails are relatively gentle, making them suitable for most travelers, especially those with children or the elderly.
Experience:
In addition to admiring the unique rock formations, the scenic area also features unique leisure facilities, such as observation decks, walking trails, and small exhibition areas. It's recommended to plan your route in advance to fully experience every corner of the area.
Transportation and Facilities:
The scenic area is easily accessible, making it easy to drive or take a tour bus from the city center. The scenic area has fairly complete infrastructure, including restrooms, rest areas, and some simple dining options. However, it's recommended to bring some drinking water and snacks.
Notes:
The terrain is complex, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Summer and autumn are the best times to visit; avoid peak season to better enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Please maintain cleanliness, avoid littering, and contribute to the preservation of this beautiful natural landscape.
Summary:
Shaanxi Wave Valley, with its unique geological landscape and beautiful natural environment, is a worthwhile tourist destination. Whether you're taking photos, strolling, or simply relaxing, you'll find plenty of enjoyment here. I hope my review will help you better plan your trip, and I look forward to seeing you!
No.
5
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Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction
4.6
/5
7604 reviews
7.3
From AU$ 12.84
32.5 km from downtown
Phone +8609515055816
Address: Shuidonggou Scenic Area, Linhe Town, Lingwu City, Yinchuan City (19 km from Yinchuan City and 11 km from Yinchuan Hedong Airport)
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-4 hours
4725 positive reviews10K views in last month
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This scenic spot is rich in history, and you can see that the Great Wall's defenses are more than just a wall.
The Mongolian cavalry performance was spectacular, and well worth seeing for children who haven't experienced horseback riding.
The various shuttle buses were also very interesting.
It's still fun to go there even if it's not peak season. All kinds of facilities are good. It's worth a visit if you like the northwest environment. All kinds of services have been restored, but the lake has become a small river, which is a different atmosphere.
No.
6
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Ordos Prairie
4.5
/5
924 reviews
7.3
From AU$ 35.95
Based on 6 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +86047715547726767
Address: 9 km southwest of Xini Town, Hangjin Banner, Ordos
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-4 hours
Saved by 104 users573 positive reviews
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The grasslands are so beautiful, I didn't want to leave once I arrived. The attractions are so plentiful! The performances were also wonderful. The "Hero" show was especially impressive, and the equestrian performances were amazing. The actors were very dedicated! I highly recommend coming back! The "Wedding" show was very festive and I loved it!
Very beautiful grassland, many projects are well organized, the children had a lot of fun, equestrian performances, flying grassland, the actors are dedicated and have superb acting skills, very exciting, the accommodation in the grassland is clean, the yurt is large and well-equipped, and the service attitude is also very good
No.
7
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Sand Lake
4.5
/5
6737 reviews
6.9
From AU$ 42.37
Based on 106 reviews
27.4 km from downtown
Phone +864001800952
Address: 宁夏回族自治区石嘴山市平罗县姚沙公路
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-5 hours
Highlights:
Water town & desert scenery
Exotic sand sculptures festival
2922 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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The vastness of Shahu Lake, its emerald waves shimmering like a dreamlike mist. Swaying reeds resemble the graceful dance of green fairies. Sand and water intertwine, creating a wondrous natural landscape. Stepping into this landscape, your heart follows the scenery, forgetting the hustle and bustle of life, only tranquility and poetry surround you, inviting you to enjoy this idyllic paradise together.
The Shahu Lake is quite interesting and suitable for taking children to play. There are cute pets and swans to feed, and adults can play various amusement projects. The environment inside is also good. But the route is very long. You have to go around in a big circle. If you buy a ticket and don't want to play in the middle, you still have to walk around in a circle before you can go back. The service attitude inside is also average. It's a pity not to come here, but it's a bit so-so after coming here.
No.
8
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Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon
4.8
/5
4896 reviews
6.9
From AU$ 24.61
83.9 km from downtown
Phone +864009960953
Address: Qingtongxia Town, Qingtongxia City, Wuzhong City
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Highlights:
Stunning cliffs & unique landscapes
Thrilling rafting in Yellow River
4504 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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It's worth going, worth the money. The Three Gorges hydropower station is a different experience. The statue of Yu the Great controlling the flood is very tall. ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ٩(•̤̀ᵕ•̤́๑)ᵒᵏᵎᵎᵎᵎ
It is more cost-effective to buy Line A for this scenic spot. Line B is to take a boat tour of the entire canyon and then go to Dayu Cultural Park, a newly built artificial scenic spot with no cultural heritage, but the 108 towers are quite shocking. You can walk around it and feel the changes of history.
No.
9
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Ningxia Museum
4.6
/5
693 reviews
6.5
Based on 38 reviews
Ningxia Museum/Downtown | 12.6 km from downtown
Phone +8609515085093
Address: No. 6, People's Square East Street , Jinfeng District, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Cultural architecture & Han artifacts
VR recreates ancient life scenes
453 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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The museum is quite large and has many cultural relics. It is very comfortable to visit during the off-season and you can learn a lot. The administrator at the entrance is very good. He did not refuse tourists from entering even if the wrong tickets were booked. He is very humane.
If you want to understand a city, you should start with its museum. Since the bus was late, the guide waited patiently for us and explained the history of Ningxia and various cultural relics to us. The explanation level was average, not interesting enough. Come on!
No.
10
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Yellow River Stone Forest
4.3
/5
822 reviews
6.5
Based on 22 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609435915160
Address: Jingtai, Baiyin, Gansu, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
524 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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It is recommended to visit the Yellow River Stone Forest on your own. We went with a tour group and were in a hurry. It was a pity that we could not reach the top to have a bird's eye view of the entire Stone Forest. There were many transportation changes in the middle, and the service in the scenic area was also average. The Stone Forest itself is still very shocking, and it is mainly necessary to leave enough time to explore it slowly.
I think a lot of what's written in a certain book is too harsh. This scenic area is truly beautiful, with a Journey to the West feel. It's definitely worth a visit. Many tourists are deceived by the solicitations of Longwan villagers in the parking lot. The scenic area is actually well-managed. While the ticket price of over 100 yuan seems a bit expensive, it's well worth it. There's both a bus and a yacht. If you let the villagers take you down, you'll still have to buy tickets for the yacht and the Stone Forest Canyon. So I decided to buy the combined ticket for 146 yuan. After checking in, you'll be taken by bus, then seamlessly transferred to an electric car, then to a speedboat at the pier (the prices in the village at the pier are very high, so be careful when dining). Then, you'll get a seamless sightseeing bus. (I found the self-drive go-kart a bit expensive, and the canyon wasn't very easy to navigate after the rain.) The final section to the observation deck requires a 30-minute walk. It's quite a steep climb, but the view is truly breathtaking once you reach it. (I advise against taking the horse-drawn carriages; they don't even go uphill. There's a flat section, and then you have to climb again. And if you're pulled back, it seems even further away.) It's said that due to dam construction in the next couple of years, this attraction will be closed to foot.
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