Which Airport to Fly to for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
The Nearest Airport: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG)
The most convenient airport to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG). Located approximately 23.2 kilometers (14.4 miles) from the park's entrance, it offers the shortest transfer time.
About Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG)
- Location: Located in Yongding District, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, China.
- Airlines: Serves numerous domestic airlines, including Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and budget carriers like Spring Airlines and Lucky Air.
- International Flights: Offers limited international flights, mainly to destinations in Southeast Asia.
- Airport Facilities: Features standard amenities such as restaurants, shops, currency exchange, ATMs, and car rental services.
Getting from Zhangjiajie Airport to the National Park
- Airport Bus: A cost-effective option with buses departing regularly from the airport to Zhangjiajie city center and Wulingyuan Scenic Area (where the park's entrance is located). Travel time is approximately 1 hour.
- Taxi: A more convenient option, though more expensive than the bus. Taxis are readily available outside the arrival terminal. Expect a fare of around 80-100 CNY to Wulingyuan.
- Private Transfer: Pre-book a private car or van for a hassle-free transfer, especially if traveling in a group.
Other Nearby Airports
While Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG) is the most convenient, you can also consider flying into these nearby airports:
| Airport | IATA Code | Distance to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Changde Taohuayuan Airport | CGD | 125.3 km (77.8 miles) | Offers domestic flights and may have cheaper options. Travel time to Zhangjiajie is around 2-3 hours by car or bus. |
| Enshi Xujiaping Airport | ENH | 144.4 km (89.7 miles) | Primarily serves domestic flights. Travel time to Zhangjiajie is around 3 hours by car or bus. |
| Yichang Sanxia Airport | YIH | 170.4 km (105.9 miles) | A larger airport with more flight options, including some international connections. Travel time to Zhangjiajie is around 3-4 hours by car or bus. |
Important Considerations for Choosing Your Airport
- Flight availability and cost: Compare flight options and prices from your departure city to all potential airports.
- Overall travel time and convenience: Factor in the time it takes to reach Zhangjiajie from each airport, including transportation connections.
- Budget: Consider the cost of transportation from the airport to the park when deciding on the best option for your budget.
FAQs
1. Can I fly directly to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park from outside of China?
While Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG) does offer some limited international flights, direct connections from most countries outside of Asia are rare. It's more common to fly into major international hubs like Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), or Guangzhou (CAN) and catch a connecting domestic flight to Zhangjiajie.
2. What is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is peak season and can be hot and crowded, while winter (November-March) offers scenic snowy landscapes but some trails might be closed due to icy conditions.
3. Are there any luggage storage facilities at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport?
Yes, left luggage services are available at the airport, allowing you to store your belongings if you have a layover or wish to explore the city before heading to the park.