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Nestled in the heart of China’s Hunan Province lies a surreal landscape that seems straight out of a fantasy film—Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, more famously known as the "Avatar Mountains." With its towering sandstone pillars, mist-covered peaks, and lush greenery, it's no surprise this otherworldly destination inspired the floating mountains of Pandora in James Cameron's Avatar. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a nature enthusiast, spending three days in Zhangjiajie offers a perfect escape into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the ultimate 3-day plan to Zhangjiajie National Park , ensuring you experience the very best that this park has to offer. From breathtaking cable car rides to impressive views and the tallest glass elevator in the world, we’ve got everything you need to make the most of your trip to the Avatar Mountains.
In this article:
3-Day Plan to Visit the Best of Zhangjiajie National Park
Day 1: Three Sisters Peaks and Solider’s Gathering
Your adventure in Zhangjiajie begins at the Wulingyuan Entrance, the perfect gateway to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. After entering the park, hop on one of the park buses that will take you to the starting point of your first journey: the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery Walk.
Morning: Ten-Mile Natural Gallery and the Climb to Three Sisters Peaks
The Ten-Mile Natural Gallery Walk is a gentle 30-minute stroll through lush greenery, dramatic rock formations, and towering sandstone pillars. This serene walk offers a taste of the park’s ethereal beauty, with stunning natural sculptures carved by wind and water over centuries.
Once you’ve soaked in the tranquility of the gallery, it’s time for the more challenging part of the day: the climb up Three Sisters Peaks on Tianzi Mountain. The climb, which takes around 2.5 hours, is steep and consists primarily of stairs. Although the ascent is demanding, the reward at the top is well worth the effort. As you climb, the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks will leave you breathless—both from the physical exertion and the beauty that unfolds with each step.
After your climb, you’ll reach the arrival area of the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car. At the top, you’ll find a variety of food options to refuel and relax. There’s even a McDonald’s if you're craving some fast comfort food after the long climb. Take some time to enjoy the views and savor a drink while gazing out over the majestic peaks.
Afternoon: Shentang Gulf and Solider’s Gathering Mountains
Once you’re recharged, hop on a bus to the next stop on your itinerary: Shentang Gulf. This secluded area is a hidden gem within the park, offering some of the most dramatic and peaceful views you’ll find in Zhangjiajie. The walk down into the gulf is perfect for those seeking a quieter escape from the more crowded areas of the park.
Next, take the same bus route as before to the Soldier’s Gathering Mountains, another stunning landmark within the park. If you're up for a walk, you can make your way there on foot, but keep in mind that the walk can be quite long, especially in the heat. For a more relaxing experience, opt for the 65 Yuan golf caddy ride, which will take you there and back in comfort.
As the day draws to a close, take the bus back to the top of Tianzi Mountain where the adventure began, and prepare for a breathtaking descent via the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car. The ride down offers unbeatable views of the mountain’s jagged peaks and dense forests, giving you a final, spectacular look at the spectacular mountains as the sun starts to dip in the sky.
Day 2: Hallelujah Mountains and Cliff Walk
Day 2 begins with another exciting start at the Wulingyuan Entrance, but today’s adventure will take you even higher and deeper into the iconic landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Park. Get ready for a day of jaw-dropping views and immersive walks through some of the most famous spots in the park.
Morning: The Bailong Elevator and Hallelujah Mountains
Start your day by taking the park bus directly to the base of the Bailong Elevator, one of the world’s tallest outdoor elevators, which takes you 326 meters up the side of a sheer cliff. As you ascend, prepare to have your breath taken away by the panoramic views of the sandstone pillars that rise dramatically from the floor. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views that stretch for miles, making the ride a highlight of the day.
From here, hop on another bus that will take you to the start of the Hallelujah Mountains Boardwalk. This boardwalk leads you to the famous Hallelujah Mountains, the very peaks that are said to have inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The walk can vary in duration depending on the number of visitors, but take your time to fully appreciate the towering stone pillars that seem to defy gravity, suspended in a sea of mist and clouds. It’s one of the most iconic views in the park, and it’s easy to see why this spot became so famous worldwide.
Afternoon: One Step to Heaven and Corridor in the Cliffs
After you visit the Hallelujah Mountains, board another bus that will take you to the top of the Yangjiajie Cable Car station. From here, begin your 1.5-hour hike to One Step Closer to Heaven, a peak that offers dizzying views from its cliffside pathways. The journey itself is spectacular, with narrow trails that cling to the cliffs, leading you through stunning rock formations and lush forests.
Once you’ve reached One Step Closer to Heaven, continue onward to the end of the Corridor in the Cliffs, a dramatic pathway that will reward you with even more breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This section of the park is often less crowded, giving you a chance to experience the serene beauty of Zhangjiajie at your own pace.
After completing your hike, catch a bus back to the Tianzi Mountain Cableway. Just like on Day 1, the cable car ride down provides one last look at the incredible landscapes you’ve spent the day exploring. As the sun begins to set, the warm light casts a golden glow on the pillars and peaks, creating a perfect end to your second day in the Avatar Mountains.
Day 3: Huangshi Village and Scenic River Walk
Your final day in Zhangjiajie takes a different route as you begin your journey at the South Entrance of the park. This area offers a more tranquil experience, perfect for reflecting on your last two days of exploration. If you’re staying in Wulingyuan, you can catch a city bus from the Wulingyuan Bus Station to the South Entrance. The ride takes around 45 minutes and costs only 10 yuan per person.
Morning: Huangshi Village Cable Car and Boardwalk Loop
Once inside the park, head to the bus stop, which will take you to the lower station of the Huangshi Village cable car. The cable car ride itself is an adventure, as it ascends the mountain and offers sweeping views of the rugged cliffs and valleys below. At the top, you’ll find yourself at the start of a 1.5-hour boardwalk loop around the mountain’s edge. This scenic walk provides some of the most panoramic views in the entire park, with steep drop-offs and dramatic vistas that seem to go on forever.
However, a word of caution: the area around Huangshi Village is known for its population of wild monkeys. While they may seem cute and curious, avoid feeding them as they can be aggressive and scratch people if they feel threatened or expect food.
After you’ve completed the loop, it’s time to walk back down to the bus station where you started your morning. This hike will take around 1 hour, and it’s a pleasant descent compared to the more strenuous climbs of the previous days. Once back at the base, take a well-deserved break and grab some lunch before the next leg of your day.
Afternoon: A Scenic Walk Along the Golden Whip Stream
After refueling, set off on a relaxing 7.5 km walk along the Golden Whip Stream. This easy trail meanders alongside a river and offers incredible views of the towering mountains from below. As you walk, you’ll be stunned by the massive cliffs that rise dramatically on either side of the valley. The peaceful sound of the running water and the stunning scenery make this walk one of the highlights of the day, and it’s a perfect way to soak in the last bits of your Zhangjiajie experience. The walk will take less than 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to savor the sights without feeling rushed.
At the end of the trail, you’ll find yourself close to the base of the Bailong Elevator. From here, catch the bus back to the Wulingyuan Entrance, marking the end of your incredible three-day adventure in the Avatar Mountains.
