Zhangjiajie , China

Zhangjiajie Private Day Trip: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Avatar Mountain

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About this experience

• Admire Zhangjiajie National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site for its awesome sandstone peak forest geology
• Get great views while taking the cable car up Tianzi Mountain
• View Helong Park, Imperial Brush Peak, and the West Sea of peaks at Tianzi Mountain
• Admire the cloud-laced pillars that inspired the 'Hallelujah Mountains' of movie Avatar
• See the ‘Avatar Hallelujah’ Mountain, No.1 Bridge under Heaven, and more
• Ride one of the highest outdoor elevators in the world, Bailong Elevator
• Hike the picturesque Golden Whip Stream
• Experienced English speaking tour guide
• Overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

Available options

Zhangjiajie Private Day Trip: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Avatar Mountain

Pickup included

What's included

All government taxes

Professional English speaking guide

Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver

All admission tickets to sightseeing places

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Included in the spectacular Wulingyuan Scenic Area near the city of Zhangjiajie, the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was the first area to be protected as a national park in China. Famed for its sandstone karst pillars stretching skywards which are draped in sub-tropical rainforest, the park was initially founded as a state-run tree farm in 1958 before being officially protected in 1982. The park’s famous sandstone pillars are the result of thousands of years of erosion by water draining through crevices. This water becomes acidic when it comes in contact with the carbon dioxide in the surrounding soil and atmosphere. Over time, this water drains through the fractures in the rock, gradually dissolving it away into the unique and iconic karst landscape seen today in Zhangjiajie. This process is further assisted by the expansion of ice within the crevices over Zhiangjiajie's chilly winter months, creating ever-wider spaces between the karst pillars.

Tianzi means Son of Heaven. The Mountain was named after a minority leader who led a revolution around 900 years ago. What amazes travelers here is the various grotesque peaks. Each one has a story behind, which is quite typical in China as Chinese people love to combine imaginary legends with sceneries. Tianzi Mountain is known as 'the Monarch of the Peak Forest'. At the top of the mountain, visitors can see the full extent of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Beautiful scenes of the mountain greet visitors in different seasons. Scenic spots here include: Yubi Peak (Imperial Brush Peak), Fairy Spreading Flowers Peak, Warrior Taming a Horse and Devine Troops.

Yuanjiajie is the place that was used as the backdrop in the James Cameron movie “Avatar”. Huge rocks with unique shapes rising from deep valleys and surrounded by higher mountains. It offers a breathtaking sight and looks like a painting. Scenic spots here at Yuanjiajie include: Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the First Bridge under the Heaven, Back Garden and Enchanting Stage. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, named Southern Sky Column before the movie Avatar, is an independent and giant pillar rising abruptly from the valley. The Avator Hallelujah mountain has a vertical height of about 150 meters (165 yards) and has lush vegetation on the top.

The Bailong (Hundred Dragons) Elevator is a 335 m tall glass elevator built onto the side of a huge cliff in the Yuanjiajie scenic area. The construction started in October 1999, and it was opened to the public in 2002. There are three lift rooms that can take 48 passengers at a time, with a speed of 3 minutes per second. It is the world’s tallest outdoor sightseeing elevator and the fastest passenger elevator with the biggest capacity.

The Golden Whip Stream is one of the best hiking routes with the most amazing views. One-way trip is around 7.5km (4.7 miles) and needs around 2.5 to 3 hours to finish. It is worth every single minute of your hike. The murmuring stream is all along the hiking route with clear water, verdant forests, various wild flowers, and singing birds. Be careful of the naughty monkeys here that are always ready to rob travelers’ food. What’s especially wonderful here is the fresh air. You will walk about 40 minutes along the stream to enjoy an eyeful of green plants and listen to the gurgle of streams and singing of birds.

What's not included

Halal Meals

Hotel accommodation

Your personal expenses

Gratuities to guide & driver (US$5 per person per day).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Public transportation options are available nearby

Keep your passport on you constantly. It might be needed to buy entrance tickets.

Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. There are only a few halal restaurants in downtown Zhangjiajie. No Halal food available within the scenic areas. McDonald or KFC at scenic areas have pork-free food.

About Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, particularly the towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie 'Avatar'. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking scenery, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes. The park's unique geological formations inspired the floating mountains in the movie 'Avatar'.

Nature 2-3 days RMB 248 (USD 36) for a 3-day pass

Tianmen Mountain

Known as the 'Heaven's Gate Mountain', Tianmen Mountain is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including the world's longest and highest glass bridge, the Tianmen Glass Walkway.

Nature 1 day RMB 280 (USD 40) including the cable car and glass walkway

Baofeng Lake

Baofeng Lake is a serene and picturesque lake surrounded by lush mountains and forests. It's an ideal spot for relaxation, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of Zhangjiajie.

Nature Half-day to 1 day Free entry, but activities may have additional costs

Yellow Stone Village

Yellow Stone Village is a traditional Tujia ethnic minority village known for its unique architecture, cultural performances, and local cuisine. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Tujia people.

Cultural Half-day to 1 day Free entry, but activities and meals may have additional costs

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spicy Tujia Sausage

A traditional Tujia dish made with pork, chili peppers, and various spices. It's known for its bold, spicy flavor and tender texture.

Dinner Contains pork and chili peppers.

Bamei

A traditional Tujia dish made with glutinous rice, pork, and bamboo leaves. The rice is steamed in bamboo leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.

Dinner Contains pork and gluten.

Zhangjiajie Steamed Fish

A local specialty made with fresh fish, chili peppers, and various spices. The fish is steamed to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Dinner Contains fish and chili peppers.

Zhangjiajie Rice Noodles

A popular local dish made with rice noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce. It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for a busy day of sightseeing.

Lunch Vegetarian option available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Glass walkway at Tianmen Mountain Canyoning and rappelling in the local mountains Boat rides on Baofeng Lake Tea tasting at local tea houses Visiting local spas and wellness centers Exploring Fenghuang Ancient Town Sampling local Tujia cuisine

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather with warm temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the national park. The scenery is lush and vibrant, with clear skies and comfortable conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Hunanese, Tujia
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Zhangjiajie is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Research and book tours and services through reputable companies.

Getting there

By air

Dayong Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from Zhangjiajie city center

By train

Zhangjiajie Railway Station

By bus

Zhangjiajie Long-Distance Bus Station, Zhangjiajie West Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Zhangjiajie. The bus system connects the city center to major attractions, including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wulingyuan District Yuanjiajie Scenic Area Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Day trips

Fenghuang Ancient Town

300 km (186 miles) from Zhangjiajie • Full day

Fenghuang Ancient Town is a well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty town known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It's a popular day trip from Zhangjiajie, offering a glimpse into China's past.

Huangshi National Geopark

150 km (93 miles) from Zhangjiajie • Full day

Huangshi National Geopark is a stunning natural landscape featuring unique geological formations, lush forests, and breathtaking views. It's a popular day trip from Zhangjiajie, offering a range of outdoor activities and scenic beauty.

Changsha

300 km (186 miles) from Zhangjiajie • Full day

Changsha is the capital of Hunan Province and a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and modern attractions. It's a popular day trip from Zhangjiajie, offering a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and contemporary entertainment.

Festivals

Zhangjiajie International Tourism Festival • October Tujia New Year • Varies (typically in February or March) Zhangjiajie International Photo Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and personalized experience, especially when exploring the park's extensive hiking trails.
Try local Tujia dishes, such as Spicy Tujia Sausage and Bamei, for an authentic culinary experience.
Pack layers and comfortable hiking shoes, as temperatures and weather conditions can vary throughout the day.
Consider visiting during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.