Exploring the Natural Wonders of Zhangjiajie: A Traveler's Guide

Nestled in the Hunan province of China, Zhangjiajie, just 5 hours south of Enshi, is a land of enchanting natural beauty, where misty mountains, winding rivers, and deep ravines merge to form a landscape that is nothing short of magical. From the towering quartzite sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar to the verdant forests that blanket the valleys, this place is truly a wonder to behold. In this guide, I will take you on a virtual journey to Zhangjiajie and provide you with all the essential information you need to plan a memorable trip to this destination.

Getting There

Getting to Zhangjiajie is easy, thanks to its well-connected transport system. The city has its own airport, Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, which is served by several airlines that operate direct flights from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Alternatively, you can take a train or a bus from nearby cities like Changsha, the provincial capital of Hunan.

Or you can take a train as I did from the Fenghuang Railway Station to Zhangjiajie Railway Station, which takes around 5-6 hours depending on the type of train you choose. You can check the train schedules and book tickets on the official website of China Railway (www.12306.cn) or through a travel agency.

Where to Stay

Zhangjiajie has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget hostel, you're sure to find something that meets your needs. For a truly immersive experience, I recommend staying in one of the many eco-lodges located inside the national park.

Exploring the National Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the main attraction of this destination, and for good reason. Spread over an area of 11,900 acres, the park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. The best way to explore the park is on foot, and there are numerous hiking trails that will take you through the heart of the forest. The most popular trail is the Golden Whip Stream, which runs for 5.7 miles and is known for its crystal-clear waters, verdant forests, and towering cliffs.

Another must-see attraction in the park is the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, which features the towering quartzite sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Other Attractions

In addition to the national park, there are several other attractions in Zhangjiajie that are worth visiting. These include:

• Tianmen Mountain: Known as the "soul of Zhangjiajie", this mountain is home to a natural arch that is said to be the highest in the world.

• Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge: This glass-bottomed bridge is the longest and highest of its kind in the world and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon. It is a world-renowned tourist attraction which spans over 400 meters and is suspended 300 meters above the canyon floor. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding natural beauty. You can walk across the bridge and experience the thrill of seeing the canyon floor below your feet. The bridge also features several viewing platforms and a bungee jumping platform for those seeking an extra adrenaline rush. (not my thing). As you step on to the bridge, you can feel it slightly sway beneath your feet, making heyour heart race faster than ever.

• Baofeng Lake: This beautiful lake is located in the middle of the forest and is known for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China is believed to have been one of the inspirations for the movie Avatar. James Cameron, the director of the movie, reportedly visited the park in 2008 and was captivated by its unique landscape of towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery. He is said to have incorporated these natural elements into the design of the movie's fictional world of Pandora. While the park was not directly featured in the film, its influence can be seen in the floating mountains and otherworldly scenery of Avatar.