No. 25 25 Great National Parks 2026

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Hunan, China

Sandstone pillars rising from forested valleys.

Overview

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China's first national forest park, is part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thousands of quartz-sandstone pillars rise from the valleys; lifts, cable cars and walkways reach the viewpoints.

Best time to visit

April to June and September to November. Mist is common.

Highlights

  • 1

    Yuanjiajie

    Pillars that are said to have inspired scenery in the film Avatar.

  • 2

    Bailong Elevator

    A glass lift built into a cliff.

  • 3

    Golden Whip Stream

    A gentle walk along a valley floor.

  • 4

    Tianzi Mountain

    Viewpoints reached by cable car.

Getting there

Zhangjiajie city has an airport and high-speed rail station; buses run to Wulingyuan.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
Time needed
Allow two days.

Official information: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

Map