A gorge in the Helan Mountains about 60 kilometres northwest of Yinchuan contains one of China's most extensive collections of ancient rock carvings. The petroglyphs were made by various nomadic peoples over a period spanning roughly 10,000 years — hunting scenes, human faces, animals, sun symbols, and abstract patterns cover the canyon walls in extraordinary density.
The site is now a national park with a visitor centre and marked walking paths through the gorge. The landscape itself is dramatic: sheer ochre cliffs, a narrow canyon floor, and the Helan peaks rising above. Allow two to three hours for a thorough visit.
There is no public transport to the site. A taxi from central Yinchuan (about 200 yuan for a round trip with waiting time) or a tour arranged through a hotel are the practical options.