Yingpanshan Ecological Park

Inner Mongolia


Half of town decamps to this high point at sunset for some astonishing views (if the weather obliges) and spectacular evening fountain shows. Beyond the panorama of the Helanshan mountains going purple in the setting sun and the gorgeous rows of pink hollyhocks, this is a superb opportunity to catch local folk relaxing with their kids, who pile onto dodgems or run around with balloons, shrieking gleefully.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Inner Mongolia attractions

1. Yánfú Sì

0.51 MILES

The original Mongol town of Bayanhot was centred on this 18th-century temple. Completed in 1742, it once housed 200 lamas; around 30 are resident here now…

2. Qīnwáng Fǔ

0.55 MILES

This fabulous courtyard palace is the former home of the local prince, the Alashan Qin Wang. A well-restored, Qing-era complex of buildings and courtyards…

3. St Joseph Catholic Church

1.36 MILES

Detached and alone, this twin-spired, brick-built church is quite a sight as you head towards town from the long-distance bus station. Of recent…

4. Alashan Museum

2.15 MILES

This superb museum affords a fascinating insight into Alashan and Mongolian culture. English captions are sporadic, which is a shame, but there's a wealth…

5. Guǎngzōng Sì

13.73 MILES

Once one of the most magnificent monasteries in Inner Mongolia, Guǎngzōng Sì has a stunning setting in the Helanshan mountain foothills 38km south of…

6. Suyukou National Forest Park

18.3 MILES

This park is a good place to start exploring Helan Shan. The 5km northbound trail is quite challenging in parts and takes you to the highest point in the…

7. Twin Pagodas of Baisikou

18.9 MILES

About 10km west of the Helan Shan rock carvings are these pagodas. You can’t climb them, but they’re an impressive sight against the backdrop of the…

8. Helan Shan Rock Carvings

19.96 MILES

The most significant sight in Helan Shan is these ancient rock carvings dating from 1000 to 10,000 years ago. Over 2000 pictographs depict animals, faces,…