Wulingyuan Scenic Area – Hunan:
Description: Wulingyuan Scenic Area, also known as Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Hunan province, China. It is famous for its stunning and otherworldly landscapes, characterized by towering sandstone pillars, deep ravines, lush forests, and breathtaking natural beauty. The unique rock formations in Wulingyuan served as inspiration for the fictional floating mountains in the movie “Avatar,” further enhancing its popularity as a must-visit destination.
Visitor Fee: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there was an entrance fee to access Wulingyuan Scenic Area. The ticket price covered entry to the park, and visitors could purchase additional tickets for specific attractions or cable car rides within the park. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket pricing and reservation information.
Transportation: Wulingyuan Scenic Area is accessible by various means of transportation.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, which offers domestic flights from major cities in China.
- By Train: Zhangjiajie Railway Station is well-connected to several cities, including Changsha and Beijing.
- By Bus: Buses operate from nearby cities and towns to Wulingyuan.
Things to Do:
- Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Huangshi Village): Hike up to the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, also known as Huangshi Village, to witness panoramic views of the sandstone pillars and the breathtaking scenery below.
- Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve: Explore Tianzi Mountain, known for its numerous peaks, cloud-shrouded landscapes, and picturesque viewpoints.
- Golden Whip Stream (Jinbian Stream): Take a leisurely walk along the Golden Whip Stream, a picturesque valley surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs.
- Yuanjiajie: Visit Yuanjiajie, another iconic area known for the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain” and the “First Bridge Under Heaven.”
- Glass Bridge (Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon): For those seeking adventure, visit the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and experience walking on the world’s highest and longest glass-bottom bridge.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Unique Scenery: Wulingyuan’s surreal and otherworldly landscapes, with its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and misty valleys, create an unforgettable experience for visitors.
- “Avatar” Movie Connection: Many visitors are drawn to the area after seeing the resemblance of the landscape to the fictional world of Pandora in the movie “Avatar.”
- Nature and Photography: Nature enthusiasts and photographers are captivated by the opportunity to capture stunning images of the unique rock formations and picturesque landscapes.
How Old is This Place:
- The geological formations in Wulingyuan Scenic Area date back millions of years, shaped by the forces of erosion and weathering.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge: Experience walking on the world’s highest and longest glass-bottom bridge in the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.
- Tujia Folk Customs Park: Explore Tujia Folk Customs Park to learn about the traditional culture of the Tujia ethnic group.
List of Activities:
- Hike Huangshi Village (Avatar Hallelujah Mountain)
- Explore Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve
- Walk along Golden Whip Stream (Jinbian Stream)
- Visit Yuanjiajie
- Experience Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge (nearby attraction)