Nestled in the north-western corner of China’s Hunan province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers an extraordinary landscape that has captivated travelers from around the world. Famous for inspiring the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the blockbuster film Avatar, this awe-inspiring destination is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Zhangjiajie was established as China’s first national park in 1982 and later included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1992. It is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which earned Global Geopark status in 2001. Before Avatar catapulted it into the global spotlight, Zhangjiajie was an underappreciated gem, even among Chinese tourists. Today, it’s a sought-after destination for those looking to experience its otherworldly beauty.
As I hiked through Zhangjiajie’s mesmerizing forest of sandstone quartz pillars, I was struck by their towering, dramatic presence. The way these natural formations rose through the clouds and mist created an almost ethereal atmosphere, reminding me of the floating mountains of Avatar. Though the rocks don’t defy gravity as they do in the movie, the fog and clouds certainly gave them a mystical quality.
Zhangjiajie’s Natural Beauty: A Perfect Blend of Scenery and Adventure
The park is home to over 3,000 pillar rocks and jagged peaks, shaped by millions of years of erosion. These striking formations stand tall and unyielding against the sky, creating a landscape like no other. The most iconic of these pillars is the “Praise the Lord Mountain” (or Hallelujah Mountain), a solitary rock that rises 1,080 meters into the air. It’s a popular viewpoint where visitors gather to marvel at the sheer majesty of the natural wonder.
Visitors can explore Zhangjiajie through a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. There are also convenient transportation options, including cable cars, shuttle buses, and even an elevator that takes passengers 326 meters up the mountainside in just two minutes. The Bailong Elevator is one of the park’s main attractions, and during peak seasons, visitors often have to wait in long lines to take the ride.
For those less inclined to hike, Zhangjiajie offers a food court with eateries like McDonald’s and numerous street food stalls. Despite the commercialization, the stunning views from places like Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Yellow Stone Village (locally known as Huangshizhai) still make the journey worthwhile.
Beyond Zhangjiajie: Tianmen Mountain’s Sky-High Adventure
Just outside Zhangjiajie National Park is Tianmen Mountain, known for its breathtaking cable car ride and the legendary “Heaven’s Gate” arch. The Tianmen cable car holds the record as the world’s longest cable car ride, stretching over 7 kilometers. As the gondola ascends, visitors are treated to a 360-degree view of the mountain’s towering peaks and winding roads below.
For thrill-seekers, Tianmen offers a heart-pounding experience with its glass-bottomed bridges and cliff-edge walkways. The skywalk, known as the “Walk of Faith,” is not for the faint of heart. Visitors must carefully navigate the bridge suspended high above the ground, with views of the mist-shrouded mountains below. The most famous feature of Tianmen is the “Heaven’s Gate,” a natural archway between two mountain peaks. Legend holds that the arch is a gateway to heaven, making it a spiritual and physical landmark for visitors.
Zhangjiajie : A Must-See Destination for Adventure and Wonder
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain offer an unforgettable travel experience, combining natural beauty, adventurous activities, and a touch of mysticism. Whether you’re hiking through towering sandstone peaks, riding the Bailong Elevator, or gazing at the “Heaven’s Gate,” Zhangjiajie is a place that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
Source: BBC News