A Natural Wonderland of Pillar Rock Formations and Majestic Scenery
Nestled in the central-eastern region of China lies the Zhangjiajie National Park, a sprawling park that is part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, featuring several protected areas that boast breathtaking natural wonders. The park, covering an area of 18.59 square miles (48.15 sq km), has been recognized as a GANP (Global Geoparks Network) Ambassador Park, and it is no surprise why it has earned such an honor. The park is home to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, which served as the inspiration for the film Avatar, making it a must-see destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.
One of the most remarkable features of the park is its dense forests, deep ravines, deep canyons, unusual peaks, caves, and pillar-like rock formations that are scattered throughout the area. These pillar rock formations, which are made of quartz-sandstone and formed by physical erosion caused by the abundant rains, are the park’s most renowned attraction. They are not typical limestone-eroded pillars and are unique to the Zhangjiajie National Park.
The mountainous terrain, the lush forests, and the rolling clouds combine to create breathtaking scenery that inspires various forms of artwork, from literature to paintings, and even films. The landscapes created by the mountains and the pillar-like rock formations are the epitome of Chinese landscapes.
Visitors to the park have the opportunity to experience the splendor of the national park through various means, including hiking, biking, and taking a cable car or elevator. Two record-holding features in the park that help visitors experience the splendor of the national park are the Bailong Elevator and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge.
The Bailong Elevator, affectionately known as the “hundred dragons sky lift,” is the world’s tallest outdoor lift, and it carries around 50 people at a time up 1,070 feet (326 m) in less than two minutes. From the top, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is the longest and highest pedestrian glass bridge in the world, stretching across 1,410 feet (430 m) at a height of 980 feet (300 m). Walking across the bridge, visitors can experience the thrill of walking on glass while enjoying panoramic views of the canyon and the mountains beyond.
Features
The five most spectacular sights are the unusual peaks, deep canyons, beautiful waters, thick forests, and mysterious caves.
The scenery of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- The peculiar peaks refer to the 3,000 or more mountain peaks made of quartz sandstones. The three representative peaks are Camel Peak, Drunk Stone Peak, and Five Finger Peak, which are elegant and magnificent.
- The deep canyons refer to 32 canyons, each more than 2,000 meters in length. The most famous ones are Jinxi Canyon, Shentang Canyon, and 10-Li Gallery Canyon.
- The beautiful water refers to the more than 800 waterscapes in the scenic area, including streams, springs, lakes, pools, and waterfalls.
- Caves of different shapes can be found here. The most outstanding is Yellow Dragon Cave, which contains beautiful stalactites.
- The rural landscapes also attract a lot of visitors. The local farmers are hospitable and you may visit their homes.
Zhangjiajie is picturesque to visit at any time of the year, but April to October is recommended, as winters are cold and the tourist areas are less accessible. But when is it best to go? It depends on the experience you’re looking for.
For weather, September and October are the best times to go, when the weather is clear and comfortable.
The national park is busy year-round except for winter from December to February. The peak season is from May to October.
The short period from early-November to mid-November is considered to be the perfect time with good weather and without heavy crowds.
Yuanjiajie (‘Yuan Family Territory’ 袁家界) contains “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain“. It is the most popular sight in Zhangjiajie. Yuanjiajie is a butte (steep-sided platform mountain), surrounded by higher peaks, grotesque rock pillars, and deep valleys. The highlights of Yuanjiajie include the First Bridge under Heaven, Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, and ‘Lost Souls Platform’.
The easiest way to get up to Yuanjiajie is by the famous Hundred Dragon Elevator (Bailong Elevator). But we don’t recommend it (unless you arrive before 7 am or descend before 4 pm) due to typical 2-hour lines for the 2-minute ride. A 1–1½-hour hike is a better way if you are fit.
Tianzi Mountain (‘Heaven Son Mountain’ or ‘Emperor Mountain’ 天子山Tianzishan) offers the best chance of photographing a sea of clouds, mainly during spring or early autumn.
Don’t miss the cable car up to this area. The 30-minute ride will take you through the towering formations and give you the opportunity to take great fly-by photos.
If your time permits, you can visit Ten-Mile Gallery where you can take a monorail train. After the train, you can hike up to Tianzi Mountain.
Gold Whip Stream (Jinbian Xi 金鞭溪) is a brook at the foot of the towering mountains. It is about 7½ km (4½ miles) long, about two hours’ walk.
It is an easy and relaxing walk along the stream. It gets quieter as you walk farther from the shuttle bus stop.
The 400-meter-high cliff by Gold Whip Stream is spectacular, especially at sunset. One thing to watch out for is the wild monkeys along the stream.
Zhangjiajie National Park is an extraordinary destination that should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. It’s a place where visitors can connect with nature, experience the thrill of adventure, and marvel at the beauty of the world around them. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to China, Zhangjiajie National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you breathless and in awe of the natural wonders of our world.
ZHANGJIAJIE China most Amazing National Forest Park (Avatar floating mountains). Best by drone
A Natural Wonderland of Pillar Rock Formations and Majestic Scenery
Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2023/03/16/zhangjiajie-national-forest-park/
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