Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (www.hnzjj.com) – China’s first national forest park and the inspiration behind the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar – is more than a destination; it’s a journey into a world where nature defies imagination.
I. 5 Unmissable Wonders to Explore
1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountains: Touch the Sky
Ride the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car above the clouds to overlook the park’s iconic Hallelujah Mountains (Southern Sky Columns). These 3,000-meter sandstone pillars, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, stand framed by emerald forests and dramatic skies. Walk the Yuanjiajie Glass Walkway for heart-stopping panoramic views, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye perspective of this otherworldly landscape.
2. Golden Whip Stream: A Serene Escape
Stroll along the Golden Whip Stream, a crystal-clear river shaded by ancient trees and vibrant rhododendrons. Watch for playful macaque monkeys swinging through the canopy! This 7.5-km trail is perfect for leisurely walks, offering cool breezes in summer and fiery autumn foliage.
3. Tianmen Mountain: Heaven’s Gate
Thrill-seekers must visit Tianmen Mountain. Take the world’s longest cable car (7.2 km) to the summit, then brave the Glass Skywalk, a transparent bridge 1,430 meters above ground. Explore the Tianmen Cave, a natural stone arch symbolizing “spiritual ascension,” reachable via 999 steps or a lift.
4. Suoxiyu Valley: A Tapestry of Colors
Discover Suoxiyu Valley, where terraced fields, waterfalls, and traditional Tujia villages create a living landscape. Ride the eco-train through the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery to marvel at rock formations like the Sleeping Buddha, Mother Embracing Child, and “Golden Tortoise Guarding the Valley.”
5. Sunrise & Sunsets: Moments of Magic
Wake early for sunrise at Tianzi Mountain, where orange and pink hues paint the peaks. In the evening, relax at Huangshi Village as the sun sets over a “Sea of Clouds” blanketing the valleys.
II. Ticket Guide
- Standard Ticket:
- Price: ¥227/person (includes entry, intra-park eco-buses, and insurance). Valid for 72 hours (3 days) with multiple entries, covering all major areas: Tianzi Mountain, Huangshi Village, Fairy Scattering Flowers, Ten-Mile Gallery, and Golden Whip Stream.
- Package Ticket:
- Original Price: ¥521 (includes entry + “3 Cables & 1 Elevator” multi-ride passes).
- Discounted Price: ¥425 (negotiable) for “park entry + 3 cables + 1 elevator.”
III. Transportation Guide
1. By Air (Hehua Airport):
- Distance to Wulingyuan Scenic Area: ~35 km.
- Taxi: ~55 minutes.
2. By High-Speed Rail (Zhangjiajie West Station):
- Distance to Wulingyuan: ~26 km.
- Taxi: ~35 minutes.
3. By Car:
- Navigate to “Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.”
IV. Itinerary Routes
Day 1: East Entrance Loop
- Entrance: East Gate (Wulingyuan Sign Gate).
- Morning: Take the Bailong Sky Elevator (88 seconds to ascend 300 meters) to Yuanjiajie, the park’s core area. Visit the Avatar filming site “Hallelujah Mountain” (Qiankun Column).
- Afternoon: Travel to Tianzi Mountain to explore He Long Park, Yubi Peak, Fairy Offering Flowers, and Tianzi Pavilion.
- Exit: Descend via Tianzi Mountain Cable Car and leave through the East Gate.
- Tips: ~10,000 steps walked.
Day 2: South to East Entrance Loop
- Entrance: South Gate.
- Morning: Start at Dayangba Square for fresh air and photos. Hike or take the cable car (included in the “3 cables” package) to Huangshi Village (90-minute hike up, 60 minutes down).
- Afternoon: Stroll along Golden Whip Stream, then visit Ten-Mile Gallery (scenic train available, ¥38 one-way).
- Exit: Leave via the East Gate.
Note: The park has multiple gates (East, South). The Wulingyuan Sign Gate is the main East Entrance – confirm your location!
V. Travel Options
- Independent Travel:
- Pros: Flexibility to set your own schedule.
- Cons: Requires extensive pre-trip planning; higher risk of scams.
- Guided Tours:
- Pros: Stress-free experience with English-speaking guides, cultural insights, and help with photos. Cost-effective and includes logistics.
- Cons: Less flexibility.
⚠️ Important Note: Watch out for mischievous monkeys in the park! Do not tease or feed them to avoid conflicts.