How Long to Spend in Zhangjiajie: The Ultimate Itinerary & Guide
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, is a sight to behold. But how much time do you really need to experience all its wonders?
Three days in Zhangjiajie is enough time to give you a decent taste of what the area has to offer. You can enjoy a day in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, brave a glass bridge and glass skywalks, explore a cave, and ride one of the world's longest cable cars. Read on to find out how.
Is 3 Days Enough for Zhangjiajie?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to get a good feel for Zhangjiajie. You can explore the main attractions of the National Park, experience the thrilling glass bridges, and even fit in some extra activities like visiting a local village or going for a hike.
If you have less than three days, you can still see the highlights, but you'll need to be selective with your time. If you have more than three days, you can use the extra time to explore further afield, such as visiting Tianmen Mountain or the ancient town of Fenghuang.
The Perfect 3-Day Zhangjiajie Itinerary
Here's a detailed itinerary for spending three incredible days in Zhangjiajie:
Day 1: Avatar Hallelujah Mountains and the Golden Whip Stream
- Morning (8:00 AM): Start your day early by heading to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park entrance. Purchase your entrance ticket (valid for four days) and hop on the park bus to reach the Bailong Elevator.
- Morning (9:00 AM): Experience the thrill of ascending the Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor elevator. Enjoy breathtaking views as you rise over 1,000 feet to reach Yuanjiajie Scenic Area.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Yuanjiajie, the inspiration behind the Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar. Hike through the stunning scenery, snap photos from the iconic viewpoints, and cross the First Bridge Under Heaven.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the restaurants near the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Take the park bus to the Golden Whip Stream. Embark on a leisurely stroll alongside the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the towering peaks and lush vegetation.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants near your accommodation.
Day 2: Glass Bridges and Thrilling Heights
- Morning (8:00 AM): Head to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. Test your nerves as you walk across the transparent bridge, enjoying panoramic views of the canyon below.
- Late Morning (11:00 AM): Visit the Tianmen Mountain National Park. Take a thrilling cable car ride, touted as the longest passenger cableway of its kind, up to the summit of Tianmen Mountain.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants atop Tianmen Mountain, savoring the views.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Explore the Tianmen Mountain plateau, walk along the cliff-hanging walkways, and brave the glass skywalks for more adrenaline-pumping views.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Head back to the town and enjoy a delicious dinner and perhaps a relaxing massage after a day of excitement.
Day 3: Exploring Caves and Scenic Beauty
- Morning (9:00 AM): Visit the Yellow Dragon Cave, a magnificent underground karst cave system. Explore its vast chambers adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Have lunch at a restaurant near the Yellow Dragon Cave.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Choose an optional activity:
- Option 1: Visit the Baofeng Lake, a serene lake nestled amidst the mountains. Take a relaxing boat ride and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
- Option 2: Head to the nearby village of Wulingyuan and experience the local culture. Browse the shops, sample local delicacies, and interact with the friendly villagers.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Zhangjiajie's top-rated restaurants.
Where to Stay in Zhangjiajie
Here's a quick look at the two best areas to stay in Zhangjiajie:
| Area | Description | Hotel Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Wulingyuan Scenic Area | Located near the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park entrance. Ideal for easy access to the park. |
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| Zhangjiajie City Center | Offers a wider range of accommodation options and dining choices. Requires a bus ride to the park entrance. |
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Getting Around Zhangjiajie
- Buses: Frequent and affordable buses connect all the major attractions within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
- Cable Cars and Elevators: The park offers several cable car and elevator options, providing scenic and thrilling transportation between different areas.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Zhangjiajie city center and can be hired for transportation within the city and to surrounding areas.
Essential Tips for Visiting Zhangjiajie
- Book in Advance: During peak season (April-October), it's recommended to book accommodation and entrance tickets in advance, especially if you plan on visiting popular attractions like the glass bridge.
- Pack for All Weather: The weather in Zhangjiajie can be unpredictable. Be prepared for rain and fluctuating temperatures, even during the summer months. Pack a light jacket or sweater, even if it's sunny when you set out.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and hiking in Zhangjiajie, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The terrain can be uneven at times, so good footwear is essential.
- Bring Water and Snacks: Carry a refillable water bottle and pack some snacks, especially if you plan on spending long hours exploring the park. While there are restaurants and food stalls within the park, it's always good to have some refreshments on hand.
FAQs about Visiting Zhangjiajie
What is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie?
The best time to visit Zhangjiajie is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) seasons when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, and the scenery is adorned with colorful foliage.
How do I get to Zhangjiajie?
Zhangjiajie is well-connected by air, train, and bus. * By Air: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (Wulingyuan Airport) receives flights from major cities in China and some international destinations. * By Train: High-speed trains connect Zhangjiajie to major cities like Changsha, Guangzhou, and Beijing. * By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities and towns.
What should I pack for a trip to Zhangjiajie?
In addition to comfortable clothing and shoes, pack a raincoat or umbrella, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. A portable charger for your electronics can also come in handy.