Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and surreal landscapes that inspired Avatar. This 2-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights efficiently while enjoying the best viewpoints and experiences.
Zhangjiajie National Forest park located at Wulingyuan and often callen Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Park.
This itinerary will work for you because it:
- Covers all major highlights in 2 days
- Efficient use of time with cable cars and elevators
- Includes photography hotspots and iconic landscapes
- Combines nature, adventure, and cultural experience
- Where to stay for visiting Avatar Mountains
- Day 1: Golden Whip Stream & Yuanjiajie
- Morning: Golden Whip Stream
- Midday: Lunch
- Afternoon: Bailong Elevator to Yuanjiajie
- Evening: Sunset at Tianzi Mountain
- Day 2: Tianzi Mountain & Optional Glass Bridge
- Morning: Explore Tianzi Mountain Fully
- Midday: Lunch
- Afternoon: Optional Glass Bridge in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
- Late Afternoon: Return to hotel
- Travel tips for Zhangjiajie
- Best time to visit Zhangjiajie
Where to stay for visiting Avatar Mountains
Recommended Base: Wulingyuan Town
- Close to park entrances (~5–10 min drive)
- It is highly recommended to stay near the East Entrance (东门) – there are a lot of hotels not far from the entrance. Make sure that you take a right location since other entrances are far from Wulingyuan Town.
- Options: budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels
Alternative: Stay in Zhangjiajie City if you prefer more restaurants and transport options (30 min drive to park). But it is not convinient since you will have to take a taxi ride or take a bus every day.
Recommended hotels near Avatar Wulingyuan Mountains (10-15 min walk from the entrance):
- Zhangjiajie Tianchong Yunhai Hotel – good location and English service
- Yoba Boutique Hotel – the best mountains view!
Day 1: Golden Whip Stream & Yuanjiajie
Morning: Golden Whip Stream
Start as early as possible, the park opens at 7 am and close at 5 pm! Better to choose East gate near Wulingyuan area for the entrance. Don’t forget to bring your ID.
- Walk along the clear river surrounded by sandstone pillars
- Easy to moderate trail (~6 km one way, 2–3 hours)
- Wildlife spotting: birds, monkeys, and unique plants
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy morning light for photography
Midday: Lunch
- Bring packed lunch or eat at park restaurants
- Local specialties: rice noodles, Hunan-style dishes
Food inside the part is very simple and there’s no any european food inside! Please make sure you are able to eat chinese food, or bring some snacks or sanwiches with you.
Afternoon: Bailong Elevator to Yuanjiajie
- Take the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevator (~330 m)
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Avatar Mountains
- Explore Yuanjiajie scenic area:
- First Bridge under Heaven
- Laowang Peak
- Iconic “floating mountain” viewpoints
Evening: Sunset at Tianzi Mountain
- Cable car to the summit
- Stunning sunset over the peaks and valleys
- Ideal for photography
Tip: Bring a light jacket — it can get chilly at sunset
Day 2: Tianzi Mountain & Optional Glass Bridge
Morning: Explore Tianzi Mountain Fully
- Walk along the main trail for panoramic viewpoints
- Highlights:
- The Emperor Peak
- King of the Peak Forest
- Enjoy the quiet early in the day before crowds arrive
Midday: Lunch
- Eat at mountain restaurants or return to Wulingyuan
- Recharge for afternoon activities
Afternoon: Optional Glass Bridge in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
- Located ~40 km from the park (~1-hour drive)
- Experience the world’s longest and highest glass bridge
- Optional: cliff-side zipline or canyon walk
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid waiting
Late Afternoon: Return to hotel
- Head back to Wulingyuan or Zhangjiajie City
- Relax and explore local shops or night market
Travel tips for Zhangjiajie
- Wear comfortable shoes; expect stairs and uneven paths
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket
- Start early each day to maximize sightseeing
- Use cable cars to save time and energy
- Check weather forecasts; fog or rain can affect visibility
- Respect local rules; stay on marked trails
Best time to visit Zhangjiajie
- Spring (March–May): mild weather, flowers bloom
- Autumn (September–November): clear skies, fewer crowds
- Summer (June–August): warm, full greenery, but crowded
- Winter (December–February): peaceful but cold, limited access
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