How to Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in 2 Days

Famous as the real-life inspiration for the “Hallelujah Mountains” in Avatar, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park—China’s first national park (established in 1982)—boasts over 3,000 towering quartz-sandstone pillars shrouded in mist. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers alike.

To manage crowds and enhance visitor flow, the park now operates two loop routes—Route A and Route B. Many travelers wonder which to choose—but rest assured: both cover identical highlights, differing only in sequence and transport direction. With smart planning, two full days are enough to experience all the park’s iconic scenery without rushing.

This guide breaks down everything you need: how to pick your route, a day-by-day itinerary, essential tips, and insider advice to make your trip smooth, scenic, and unforgettable.

1: Route A vs. Route B – Which Should You Choose?

Both routes start and end at the Wulingyuan East Gate and use the same 4-day park ticket (¥227/person, includes unlimited eco-bus rides). The key difference lies in how and when you access the mountaintop:

Feature	Route A (Best for Avoiding Crowds)	Route B (Best for First-Time Visitors)
Uphill Transport	Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (~15 min)	Bailong Elevator (1 min 28 sec)
Downhill Transport	Bailong Elevator	Tianzi Mountain Cable Car
Sightseeing Order	Tianzi Mountain → Yangjiajie → Yuanjiajie	Yuanjiajie → Yangjiajie → Tianzi Mountain
Main Advantage	Shorter queues during peak season; smoother flow on summit trails	Experience the world’s tallest outdoor elevator first; see Avatar peaks early
Ideal For	Travelers seeking quieter views, photography in soft light	Those wanting to “wow” early with engineering marvels and iconic sights

✅ Key Tips:

Book tickets 1–3 days ahead via official platforms (e.g., “Zhangjiajie One-Stop Travel” mini-program), especially during holidays, summer, or winter snow season.

Both routes involve similar physical effort—most travel is via eco-bus, cable car, or elevator; walking occurs mainly within scenic zones and is moderate.

2: Your Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Before You Go

Ticket: ¥227/person (valid 4 days, includes free eco-buses)
Extra Costs:
- Bailong Elevator or Tianzi Mountain Cable Car: ¥72 one-way
- Huangshizhai Cable Car: ¥68 one-way (¥118 round-trip)
Where to Stay: Hotels near Wulingyuan East Gate—just a 5–10 min walk to entrance, with restaurants and shops nearby.
Getting There: From Zhangjiajie city or Hehua Airport (DYG), take airport shuttle, taxi, or direct bus (~40 mins).

Day 1: Summit Loop – Avatar Peaks, Cloud Seas & Stone Forests

08:00 Enter via East Gate, take eco-bus to your starting point:

Route A: Head straight to Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (great morning views, avoids elevator rush).
Route B: Go to Bailong Elevator base—soar 326m vertically in under 90 seconds!

09:30–12:00 Yuanjiajie (The Heart of Avatar)

Must-sees:
- Misty Soul Platform – panoramic sea of peaks
- Qiankun Pillar – the real “Hallelujah Mountain”
- Tianxia No.1 Bridge – natural stone arch with 357m drop
Photo Tip: Visit early or late for soft light—avoid harsh midday sun.

12:00–13:00 Lunch at summit cafeteria (pack snacks—prices are high!).

13:30–15:30 Yangjiajie (Ancient “Peak Walls”)

Highlights:
- Natural Great Wall – parallel sandstone ridges formed 380 million years ago
- Wulong Village – thrilling iron ladders and “Three Ghost Gates” (skip if with young kids/elderly)

16:00–17:30 Tianzi Mountain (King of Peak Forests)

Don’t Miss:
- Fairy Scattering Flowers
- Yubi Peak (36 brush-like spires)
- West Sea Stone Forest – golden at sunset, perfect for photos

17:30 Return downhill via your route’s transport, then eco-bus back to East Gate.

Day 2: Canyon & Forest Loop – Fresh Air, Waterfalls & Wildlife

08:30 Enter via South Gate, stop at Daoyuba Plaza (“Oxygen Bar”)—famous filming spot with ultra-high negative ions.

09:00–12:00 Yellow Stone Fort( Huangshizhai )(“A Miniature Fairyland”)

Transport: Take cable car up (10 mins); hiking takes ~2 hours
Top Views:
- Liuqi Pavilion – 360° peak forest panorama
- Five-Finger Peak – palm-shaped rock formation
- Star-Picking Platform – best chance to see rare “Buddha’s Light”
Note: Flat, easy loop—ideal for all ages.

12:00–13:00 Cable car down, lunch near South Gate.

13:30–16:30 Golden Whip Stream（Jinbian Stream） (7.5km “Gallery in Nature”)

Zhangjiajie Forest Park Golden Whip Stream

Iconic Sights:
- Eagle Protecting the Whip
- Mother & Son Peaks
- Scholar Hiding Books
Options:
- With kids/elderly: Walk first 1–2 km (1 hour), enjoy streams and wild monkeys, then turn back.
- Fit travelers: Complete the full trail—gentle, shaded, and stunning.

16:30–17:30 (Optional) Ten Miles Gallery(Shili Gallery)

Zhangjiajie Forest Park Ten mile gallery

Take eco-bus to the valley, then ride the scenic mini-train (¥38 one-way) past “Herb-Gathering Elder” and “Three Sisters Peaks.”

17:30 Exit via South or East Gate—your Zhangjiajie adventure complete!

Part 3: Pro Tips for International Travelers

What to Wear: Layers! Temperatures vary greatly between day/night—especially in winter. Sturdy walking shoes are essential. In summer, bring sunscreen and insect repellent; in rain, wear non-slip footwear.
Avoid Scams: Say no to street touts offering “cheap tours”—they’re often shopping traps. All official transport inside the park is included or clearly priced.
Photography: Best shots at Tianzi Mountain sunrise, Jinbian Stream reflections, and Huangshizhai dawn. A wide-angle lens is ideal. In December, snow + rime on peaks = magical!
For Families/Seniors:
- Choose Route B for easier access via Bailong Elevator.
- Always take the Huangshizhai cable car—skip the steep hike.
- Note: Some trails lack wheelchair access.

End

Zhangjiajie isn’t just a destination—it’s an otherworldly experience where earth meets sky, and myth becomes reality. Whether you float up in the Bailong Elevator or glide over clouds on a cable car, every moment here feels like stepping into a living painting.

With this guide, you’ll skip the stress, dodge the crowds, and capture the magic—exactly as it was meant to be seen.

We craft tailor-made Zhangjiajie trips—matching your pace, interests and dreams with expert planning and local know-how. It’s more than a visit—it’s your personal adventure.

Ready for your perfect trip? Connect with our experts for a China journey tailored to your interests, pace and preferences—truly yours.

Don’t hesitate—contact our travel consultant today and start your journey to Zhangjiajie and beyond!