Discover Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: A 3-Day Adventure

Before you go, note that Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (张家界国家森林公园) and Tianmen Mountain Forest Park (天门山国家森林公园) are two separate attractions about a 30-minute drive apart. This guide focuses only on the routes within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

I. Ticket Information

Zhangjiajie offers a ticket package that is the most cost-effective, with free access to all scenic buses and a validity of four days! If you explore thoroughly, you can cover a lot of ground.

II. Accommodation

It's best to stay in Wulingyuan City (武陵源市区) for convenience. We stayed at the Listening Yaanju Inn (聆听雅安居特色客栈), which is very close to the scenic area (about 1.2 miles), very convenient. The inn owner is great and can help book tickets at better prices than buying them yourself. The inn is affordable at 116 CNY (approximately $16 USD) per night and offers excellent value.

Hotel Recommendations:

1. Listening Yaanju Inn (聆听雅安居特色客栈): $16/night
2. Wulingyuan Hotel (武陵源酒店): $30/night
3. Pullman Zhangjiajie (张家界铂尔曼酒店): $100/night
4. Zhangjiajie Sunshine Hotel (张家界阳光酒店): $50/night
5. Homeward Mountain Hotel (归山酒店): $25/night

III. Itinerary

Day 1: Wulingyuan National Forest Park (武陵源国家森林公园)

• Entrance: Wulingyuan Gate (武陵源大门)
• Route: Tianzishan Cableway (天子山索道) - He Long Park (贺龙公园) - Yuanjiajie (袁家界) - Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯) - Golden Whip Stream Canyon (金鞭溪大峡谷) - Exit at Wulingyuan Gate

Day 2: Zimu Forest Park (梓木森林公园)

• Entrance: Zimu Gate (梓木岗大门)
• Route: Golden Whip Stream Canyon - Ten Mile Gallery Scenic Train - Zimugang Gate

Day 3: Forest Park Gate (森林公园大门)

• Route: Yangjiajie (杨家界) - Huangshi Village (黄石寨) - Golden Whip Stream Canyon - Forest Park Gate

IV. Personal Experience

During my visit, the Yangjiajie Cableway was under maintenance. To see the Avatar floating mountains, I went straight to Yuanjiajie.

First Stop: He Long Park (贺龙公园)

• Take the Tianzishan Cableway (天子山索道) for a breathtaking ride. Don't miss this experience! The park's main attraction is Yubi Peak, with several spectacular viewpoints.

From He Long Park, take the shuttle to Yuanjiajie, stopping at "First Bridge Under Heaven (天下第一桥)." The walk is long but well-signposted.

First Bridge Under Heaven: Stunning views, best seen from a distance. Continue to Misty Platform (迷雾台) for an otherworldly experience – the surrounding fog makes you feel like a celestial being.

From Misty Platform, proceed to the famous Avatar Floating Mountains. There are multiple viewpoints, each offering unique perspectives.

Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯): The highest outdoor elevator in the world, a must-try!

If time allows, hike down Golden Whip Stream. Along the way, you may encounter monkeys – be cautious not to show food or plastic bags, and avoid eye contact to prevent attacks. Most monkeys are gentle and adorable.

V. Additional Attractions

Ten Mile Gallery (十里画廊): A paradise for hikers, featuring unique rock formations along a lush 3-mile canyon. For a charming experience, take the scenic train on a sunny day.

Food Recommendations:

In the scenic area, numerous snack stalls ensure you won't go hungry. For more refined dining, visit the restaurant near the Tianzishan entrance. We also enjoyed a delicious meal at a local Hunan restaurant near Wulingyuan bus station – flavorful, affordable, and excellent service.

VI. Two-Day Recommended Itinerary

Day 1:

• Entrance: Wulingyuan Gate (武陵源大门)
• Route: Tianzishan Cableway (天子山索道) - Yangjiajie Scenic Area (杨家界景区) - Yuanjiajie (袁家界) - Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯) - Exit at Wulingyuan Gate
• Evening: Stay in Wulingyuan, watch "Charming Xiangxi (魅力湘西)" directed by Feng Xiaogang, or explore the night scenery of Xibu Street.

Day 2:

• Entrance: Wulingyuan Gate (武陵源大门)
• Route: Ten Mile Gallery Scenic Train - Golden Whip Stream (金鞭溪) (7.5 kilometers, about 2 hours) - Natural Oxygen Bar (天然氧吧)
• Tips: Wear long sleeves to avoid mosquito bites and comfortable shoes. Do not tease monkeys!

VII. Rough Estimate of Expenses

• Accommodation (3 nights): $16 - $300 (depending on the hotel)
• Entrance Tickets: $40 per person
• Transportation: $20 per person
• Food: $30 - $60 per person
• Miscellaneous: $20

Total Estimate: $126 - $420 per person

Note: Costs may vary based on dining and lodging choices.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (张家界国家森林公园) is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Plan your trip wisely and enjoy the tranquility and splendor of this stunning destination!