The Avatar Mountains. That is how Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is being promoted across China and around the world. Giant sandstone pinnacles rise skyward from the valley floor, some up to 200m tall with tufts of evergreen shrubs clinching to their narrow summits. Thousands of these striking monoliths are eroded into the earth like a towering stone forest. Their powerful beauty is contrasted by its remote inaccessibility. This is a place of awe and humility. Somewhere that one would think had never had human eyes laid upon them. It is easy to see the comparison between Zhangjiajie’s mountains and those of the mythical Pandora. Buried deep in the Hunan province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the greater Wulingyuan Scenic Area, holds the esteemed title of being China’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When visiting the area, there are two main cities to be familiar with. Zhangjiajie city which is where Tianmenshan is and Wulingyuan city which is where the main entrance to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is. I recommend staying one night at Zhangjiajie city to visit Tianmenshan, and the remainder of the nights at Wulingyuan, to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Generally, April to October is the best time to visit this area. From April to June especially, it is the rainy season which means there is a higher chance of viewing the sought after 'yun hai' - sea of clouds amongst the mountains.

Dishes in Zhangjiajie has characteristic of Hunan cuisine as well as local own flavor, with spicy food are mainly served. The sautéed and pickled dishes of Tujia people are also very special. Check the recommended Restaurants in Zhangjiajie.

There are different minority groups in Zhangjiajie, Miao, Tujia, Bai and other people. The Torch Festival held on July 25th is the biggest events for Bai minority groups, to celebrate the eradication of pests and protection of crops. In the evening of that day, every residence must ignite torches and then get together, forming a fire. People leap back and forth from the fire to pray for a good reap of the crop.

1)  You will have some hikings in Zhangjiajie. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress appropriately: for weather, activity level and to respect local customs. Your guide can advise you on suitable clothing in advance of your tour.

2) Be open-minded and respect the local culture. We hear this a lot, but what exactly does it mean? In a nutshell, it means understanding that things are likely going to be different than at home – and that’s OK. Travelers who spend their whole time in judgment of different customs and behaviors end up complaining more about their trip than enjoying it.

Zhangjiajie is world-famous for its otherworldly sandstone pillars and was the inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar. The top attractions include:
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, featuring Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Yuanjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain.
Tianmen Mountain, known for its thrilling glass skywalk, cable car, and 999-step stairway.
Baofeng Lake, offering tranquil boat rides surrounded by karst peaks.
Yellow Dragon Cave, one of China’s largest and most dramatic caves.
Insider timing tips:
Enter Zhangjiajie National Park before 8:30 AM to avoid queues at elevators and cable cars.
Visit Tianzi Mountain or Yuanjiajie on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Plan Tianmen Mountain in the early morning or after 3 PM for a quieter experience.
Professional Itinerary Suggestion:
Day 1: Tianmen Mountain (cable car round-trip + glass walkway)
Day 2: Yuanjiajie + Bailong Elevator + Tianzi Mountain
Day 3: Baofeng Lake + Yellow Dragon Cave (or Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon with Glass Bridge)

Our Zhangjiajie small-group and private tours include several iconic and efficient local transportation features:
Bailong Elevator VIP access (World's highest outdoor elevator, 326m vertical ride)
Tianmen Mountain Cable Car (World’s longest cable car ride: 7.5 km, 30 minutes)
Private electric shuttles inside the National Forest Park
Glass Bridge access at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, with timing to avoid crowds
Upgrades & Comfort Services:
VIP fast track for the Bailong Elevator and Grand Canyon
Local SUV or business van transfers to handle mountainous roads comfortably
Daily disinfection of vehicles; bottled water and motion-sickness pills provided

Yes, our small group tours are designed with all ages in mind. We:
Adjust hiking intensity based on fitness levels
Offer cable cars/elevators instead of long stair climbing
Include child seats upon request and stroller-friendly stops
Provide guides trained in first aid and family care
Bonus: Elderly guests (60+) and students with ID get discounted tickets to most attractions. We help handle these at entrance.

We recommend packing:
Lightweight hiking shoes with good grip
Raincoat or small umbrella (weather changes quickly in the mountains)
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Camera or phone with ample memory
Snacks for hiking, motion sickness pills if needed
A reusable water bottle (our guide carries filtered water for refills)