Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its otherworldly quartzite pillars, pristine air, and abundant wildlife. Often cited as the inspiration for the "Floating Mountains" in Avatar, this 48,100-hectare park offers a surreal blend of ancient forests, crystal-clear streams, and breathtaking vistas that feel plucked from a fantasy novel.
1. Attraction Introduction
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, established in 1982, is China’s first national forest park. Its crown jewel is the Avatar-like pillar cluster—towering sandstone columns draped in lush greenery, some soaring over 800 meters high.
Key highlights include:
Baofeng Lake: A serene alpine lake reflecting pillars like mirrors.
Yuanjiajie: The "Avatar Mountain" viewpoint with panoramic views.
Golden Whip Stream: A 7.5km hiking trail tracing turquoise waters through dense forests.
Baishuitai: A 2,800-step stone staircase leading to mesmerizing waterfalls.
2. Historical & Geological Background
Formed over 380 million years ago, the park’s quartzite pillars were sculpted by erosion, rain, and time. It gained global fame after being featured in James Cameron’s Avatar (2009). Designated a UNESCO site in 1992, it’s home to over 500 species of plants and rare animals like the Chinese giant salamander and clouded leopard.
3. Map & Key Spots
Avatar Mountain Trail: Yuanjiajie’s iconic viewpoint.
Baofeng Lake: Boat rides to pillar-framed islands.
Golden Whip Stream: Easy hiking path with wild monkeys.
Tianzi Mountain: Sunrise/sunset viewpoints.
Ten-Mile Gallery: Elevated boardwalk through forests.
4. Suggested Route
Day 1:
Main Gate → Golden Whip Stream (3h) → Baofeng Lake (boat ride) → Tianzi Mountain (sunset).
Day 2:
Baishuitai Waterfall → Yuanjiajie (Avatar Trail) → Ten-Mile Gallery → Exit via Wulingyuan Gate.
Total: 6–8 hours; use shuttle buses between areas.
5. Best Time to Visit
Peak Season: April–November (mild weather, vibrant greenery).
Avoid: Golden Week (Oct 1–7) and Chinese New Year (crowds).
Best Light: Early morning (7–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) for photography.
6. Transportation Guide
Address: Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
From Zhangjiajie Airport: 40-minute taxi (~150 CNY) or airport shuttle bus.
From Railway Station: 1-hour bus ride (Line 1 or Central Bus Station to Wulingyuan).
Park Shuttles: Free buses connect all entrances and major sites.
7. Costs & Tickets
Entry Fee: 228 CNY (4-day pass); 338 CNY with Bai Long Elevator/Baishuitai.
Shuttle Bus: Included in ticket.
Guide Services: 300–500 CNY/day (book at visitor center).
8. Special Notes
Wildlife: Do not feed monkeys; keep food in sealed bags.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
Eco-Friendly: Carry trash out; avoid plastic.
Photography: Drones prohibited; tripods allowed in designated zones.