Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – Hunan:

Description: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a breathtakingly scenic national park located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area in Hunan province, China. It is famous for its unique sandstone pillars, lush forests, deep ravines, and stunning natural beauty. The park gained international fame after being featured in the movie “Avatar,” which drew attention to its otherworldly landscape. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitor Fee: As of my last update in September 2021, the entrance fee for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was around 248 Chinese Yuan (CNY) per person during the peak season (March to November) and 136 CNY during the off-peak season (December to February). However, these fees might have changed since then, so it’s essential to check the latest ticket prices before your visit.

Transportation: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is accessible by both air and land:

1. By Air: Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG) serves as the main gateway to the park. Many domestic flights connect Zhangjiajie with major cities in China.
2. By Train: Zhangjiajie Railway Station is well-connected with several cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an.
3. Local Transportation: From the airport or railway station, you can take a taxi or hire a local driver to reach the park’s entrance.

Things to Do:

1. Glass Bridge: Walk on the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Hiking: Explore the network of trails and pathways that lead to various scenic spots and viewpoints, offering unparalleled vistas of the unique sandstone formations.
3. Tianzi Mountain: Take a cable car ride to the top of Tianzi Mountain, where you can witness the “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon on misty days.
4. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: Visit the real-life inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie “Avatar,” known as the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.
5. Golden Whip Stream: Stroll along the picturesque Golden Whip Stream, a clear and meandering watercourse surrounded by lush greenery.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Spectacular Landscapes: Zhangjiajie’s towering sandstone pillars and natural formations create a surreal and otherworldly landscape that captivates visitors.
• Nature and Fresh Air: Nature enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the forested mountains and enjoy clean, fresh air.
• Hiking and Adventure: The park offers excellent hiking trails and adventure opportunities for those seeking an active and exhilarating experience.
• Avatar Connection: Fans of the movie “Avatar” are drawn to the park to see the real-life locations that inspired the film’s stunning scenery.

Age of the Place: The geological formations in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park have been shaped over millions of years. However, the park itself was officially established in 1982.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Tianmen Mountain: Known for the Tianmen Cave, a natural hole in the mountain, and the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, offering breathtaking views.
• Baofeng Lake: A serene lake surrounded by lush vegetation and karst hills, accessible by boat.
• Yellow Dragon Cave: A vast underground karst cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

List of Activities:

1. Exploring the unique sandstone formations and scenic viewpoints.
2. Walking on the glass-bottomed bridge for thrilling experiences.
3. Hiking through the national park’s trails and admiring nature’s beauty.
4. Riding cable cars for panoramic views from elevated points.
5. Enjoying boat rides on Baofeng Lake.
6. Taking photographs of the awe-inspiring landscapes.
7. Appreciating the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain for its movie connection.
8. Experiencing the local culture and cuisine in nearby towns.