Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the first UNESCO Global Geopark in China, is a surreal landscape of 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars towering over misty valleys, deep gorges, and lush forests. Famed for inspiring the floating mountains in Avatar (2009), the park spans 481 square kilometers in Hunan Province. Its otherworldly scenery, home to rare flora and fauna like the giant salamander, blends geological wonder with Tujia ethnic culture. The park’s Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, and 10 suspension bridges offer thrilling access to its peaks.
Historical Overview
The park’s geological history dates back 380 million years to the Devonian period, when sandstone deposits formed the iconic pillars. Tujia and Miao ethnic groups have inhabited the region for centuries, preserving traditions like weaving, folk songs, and shamanic rituals. In 1982, it became China’s first national forest park, and in 1992, UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Its global fame surged after Avatar’s release, with the park renaming a peak “Hallelujah Mountain” in homage. Today, it hosts eco-tourism initiatives and cultural festivals, balancing conservation with sustainable development.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into four zones:
Golden Whip Stream Zone:A 7.5-km canyon with crystal-clear waters, Golden Whip Rock, and the Mile-Long Painting Gallery cliff carvings.
Yellow Stone Village Zone:The park’s highest peak (1,262m), offering 360° views of the pillar forests via the Six Wonders Pavilion.
Yuanjiajie Zone:Home to Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Natural Bridge, and the First Bridge Under Heaven (the world’s tallest natural stone arch).
Tianzi Mountain Zone:Famous for its sea of clouds, Terraced Fields, and Helong Park (dedicated to Marshal He Long, a local revolutionary hero).
Major Attractions
Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Southern Sky Column):A 1,074m-tall pillar featured in Avatar, accessible via the Bailong Elevator (326m in 1 minute 58 seconds).
Tianmen Mountain Cable Car:The world’s longest high-altitude cable car (7,455m), rising 1,279m over 28 minutes to Tianmen Cave (a 131m-high natural arch).
Golden Whip Brook:A serene 2.5-hour hike along a emerald-green stream, passing Pig Back Ridge and Welcoming Guest Pine.
Natural Bridge:A 40m-long stone arch spanning two cliffs, formed over millennia by erosion.
Tianzi Mountain:A plateau with 10,000 sandstone peaks that transform with mist, sunlight, and seasons.
Ten-Mile Natural Gallery:A flat 5.8km trail (or scenic tram ride) through a corridor of pillars resembling ancient warriors.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (1 Day):
Golden Whip Stream Entrance → Golden Whip Rock (1.5h hike) → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie (Avatar Zone) → Tianzi Mountain (cable car down).
Highlights: Avatar landmarks, elevator thrill, and panoramic vistas.
Extended Route (2 Days):
Day 1: Classic Route + Tianmen Mountain (cable car up, glass Skywalk, 999-step Heavenly Staircase).
Day 2: Yellow Stone Village (4h hike) → Tianzi Mountain (sunrise) → Baofeng Lake (boating).
Highlights: Off-the-beaten-path trails, lake serenity, and cultural performances.
Adventure Route (3 Days):
Day 1: Classic Route + Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge (world’s longest/tallest pedestrian bridge).
Day 2: Tianmen Mountain + Yellow Dragon Cave (karst cave with underground rivers).
Day 3: Furong Town (Tujia water village) + Bailong Elevator Night View.
Highlights: Extreme sports, cave exploration, and ethnic immersion.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official Zhangjiajie website or Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at Wulingyuan Entrance (main gate); e-tickets scanned via QR code.
Prices:
4-Day Pass: ¥227 (includes parks + buses).
Bailong Elevator: ¥72 (one-way).
Tianmen Mountain Cable Car: ¥278 (round-trip).
Optional Add-Ons:Glass Bridge: ¥138.
Boating at Baofeng Lake: ¥96.
Transportation
Plane:Fly to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, then a 40-minute taxi to Wulingyuan.
High-Speed Train:From Changsha (3 hours) or Guangzhou (5.5 hours) to Zhangjiajie West Station, then a 1-hour bus.
Bus:Long-distance buses from major cities to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station, then a shuttle to Wulingyuan.
Park Shuttles:Free buses connect zones (6 AM–7 PM); last bus times vary by season.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Seasons:Spring (April–June) for wildflowers and mild weather.
Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and foliage.
Avoid summer (July–August) rain and crowds.
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays or early mornings (7:30 AM opening).
Essentials:
Wear hiking boots (many stairs and uneven terrain).
Bring rain gear (sudden showers common).
Photography allowed (tripods permitted outside restricted zones).
Prohibited: Drones, littering, and feeding wildlife.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Scenic Spots Guide
FAQ
What are the "must-see" spots in the park?
You're in for a treat! The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is full of wonders. Top 3 must-see spots: 1) Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (take the Bailong Elevator for a breathtaking view of the floating peaks), 2) Golden Whip Stream (a serene 7.5 km hike along crystal-clear waters), and 3) Tianzi Mountain (the sunrise here is legendary, often called "Fairyland on Earth"). Bonus: Don't miss the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery – a scenic train ride through stunning landscapes (¥38). Our guides know all the best spots and can help you avoid the crowds!
How do I get from Zhangjiajie Airport to the National Forest Park?
Welcome to Zhangjiajie! To get from the airport to the park, you have a few convenient options. The Airport Shuttle Line 4 is a great choice; it takes about 40 minutes and costs ¥25, dropping you off in Wulingyuan District. From there, you can easily transfer to Bus 1, 2, or 3 (¥2, 15 minutes) to reach the East Gate of the Forest Park. If you prefer door-to-door service, we'd be happy to arrange a private transfer for you. Just let us know, and we'll take care of everything!
How many days should I plan for the park?
To truly experience the magic of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, we recommend planning 2-3 full days. Here's a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Start at the East Gate → Take the Bailong Elevator to Avatar Hallelujah Mountain → Hike along Golden Whip Stream. Day 2: Visit Tianzi Mountain for sunrise → Explore the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. Day 3: Venture to Yangjiajie (a less crowded area with equally stunning scenery). We can customize a 3-day itinerary for you, including priority tickets and seamless transport!
What's the transportation like inside the park?
Getting around Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a breeze with the free shuttle buses that connect all major zones every 10 minutes. For more flexibility, you can rent an e-bike near the East Gate (¥80/day). Please avoid unlicensed cars, as they may charge exorbitant fees. With our packages, you'll enjoy unlimited bus access, making your journey smooth and hassle-free!
Where to stay near the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?（
For a convenient stay near the park, Wulingyuan Town is your best bet, just 5 minutes from the East Gate. We recommend: Zhangjiajie Pullman (luxury) or Zhangjiajie Jiahao Hotel (mid-range). Book through us, and you'll get a 10% discount! Let us know your preference, and we'll handle the reservation.
Can I fly a drone in the park?
We understand the temptation to capture aerial views, but flying drones is strictly prohibited in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park as it's a protected UNESCO site. Violators may face fines up to ¥5,000. For an unforgettable aerial experience, you can book a helicopter tour instead. If you're a professional filmmaker, we can assist with obtaining the necessary permits.
What are the opening hours of the park?
The park is usually open from 07:00 to 17:00, with ticket sales and entry stopping at 17:00.
Which viewpoints have unobstructed sunrise views?
Tianzi Mountain’s “Fairy Spreading Flowers” platform and Huangshi Village’s “Six Wonder Pavilions” offer panoramic vistas without railings blocking shots.
Where to see MaoGusi dance performances?
The “Zhangjiajie Grand Theatre” hosts nightly shows (7 PM) blending ancient hunting dances with modern light effects. Join post-show workshops (¥50).
Is there transportation connection between the entrances of the park?
There is an environmental - friendly bus connection between the east gate (Wujiayu, Biaozhimen Ticket Station) and the middle gate (Zimugang Ticket Station) in the park. For other entrances, the distance is relatively far, and it is recommended to take a taxi or a self - driving car to transfer, or return to the urban area and then go to other entrances.
Are there drinking water supply points in the park?
There are some drinking water supply points in the park, mainly located in tourist service centers, major scenic spots and some rest areas, which can provide tourists with convenient drinking water. It is recommended that you bring your own water bottle to save resources and be more environmentally friendly.
