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Zhangjiajie Itineraries: How to Spend 2,3,4,5 Days in Zhangjiajie

Written by Senior Expert Felicia|Updated: 2024-09-14

Zhangjiajie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, iconic Avatar Mountains, and thrilling adventures. Located in Hunan Province, China, this destination offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Whether you have 2, 3, 4, or 5 days to spare, there are ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this region.

For a 2-day adventure, focus on must-see spots like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the thrilling Bailong Elevator, and the awe-inspiring Tianzi Mountain. Extend your stay to 3 days to delve deeper into attractions like the serene Tianmen Mountain and the thrilling Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. With 4 or 5 days, you can venture off the beaten path to explore the lesser-known areas and enjoy leisurely hikes through the picturesque landscapes. By following these suggested Zhangjiajie itineraries, you can tailor your Zhangjiajie experience to suit your interests and time frame, creating unforgettable memories in this enchanting destination.

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  • triangleHow Many Days Should I Spend in Zhangjiajie
  • triangleZhangjiajie 2-Day Itinerary - Basic Route in Zhangjiajie
  • triangleZhangjiajie 3-Day Itinerary - Popular Choices in Zhangjiajie
  • triangleZhangjiajie Itinerary 4 Days - Panoramic Route of Zhangjiajie
  • triangleZhangjiajie Itinerary 5 Days - How to Spend 5 Days in Zhangjiajie
  • triangleTravel to Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel

How Many Days Should I Spend in Zhangjiajie

Yubifeng Peak of Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Yubifeng Peak of Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Zhangjiajie
Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Zhangjiajie

The ideal number of days to spend in Zhangjiajie can vary depending on your interests, travel style, and the experiences you wish to have. However, as a general guideline:

  • 2 Days: A shorter visit of 2 days allows you to explore the main highlights of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, such as the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the Bailong Elevator. This timeframe is suitable for a quick glimpse of the iconic landscapes and key attractions.
  • 3-4 Days: With 3 to 4 days, you can delve deeper into Zhangjiajie's natural beauty and cultural offerings. This duration allows for more leisurely exploration, additional hikes, visits to surrounding scenic areas like Tianzi Mountain and Suoxi Valley, and time to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • 5+ Days: For a more comprehensive experience, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities and want to explore beyond the main tourist spots, consider spending a week or more in Zhangjiajie. This extended stay allows for a more relaxed pace, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and a deeper connection with the region's landscapes and heritage.

Ultimately, the duration of your stay in Zhangjiajie should align with your interests and how much time you wish to dedicate to fully experiencing all that this mesmerizing city and its surrounding natural wonders have to offer.

Misty Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Misty Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Floating Mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Floating Mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie 2-Day Itinerary - Basic Route in Zhangjiajie

  • Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Transfer to Wulingyuan District
  • Day 2: Spend a Whole Day in Wulingyuan National Park (Avatar Mountain). Explore Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Tianzi Mountain with the Bailong Elevator and Tianzishan Cable Car.

Highlights of 2 Day Zhangjiajie Itinerary

  1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Yuanjiajie):

This iconic peak is the centerpiece of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned for its resemblance to the floating mountains depicted in the movie Avatar. The towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery create a breathtaking spectacle, making it one of the most photographed spots in the park. Visitors can hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

  1. Tianzi Mountain:

Another must-see attraction, Tianzi Mountain offers a unique landscape of towering peaks, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls. The Tianzi Mountain Cable Car provides a convenient way to reach the summit, where visitors can enjoy stunning vistas and explore the scenic trails. The area is also home to the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, which protects a variety of rare plant and animal species.

Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
  1. Bailong Elevator:

This glass elevator is one of the tallest outdoor elevators in the world, transporting visitors up the sheer cliffs of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The ride offers a thrilling experience as it ascends over 330 meters (1,083 feet) to the top of the Bailong Gorge. The elevator provides a convenient alternative to hiking up the steep slopes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

  1. Tianzishan Cable Car:

Another popular transportation option in the park, the Tianzishan Cable Car takes visitors to the Tianzishan Scenic Area, known for its breathtaking scenery and ancient temples. The cable car ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys, making it a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the park.

Take the Bailong Elevator up to Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Take the Bailong Elevator up to Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Take Tianzishan Cable Car in Zhangjiajie
Take Tianzishan Cable Car in Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie 3-Day Itinerary - Popular Choices in Zhangjiajie

The first day is arrival day. Upon arrival in Zhangjiajie City, you'll be greeted by your local guide who will assist you with your transfer to Wulingyuan District, the gateway to Wulingyuan National Park.

Option One: 2 Days in Wulingyuan (Avatar Mountain)

  • Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Transfer to Wulingyuan District
  • Day 2: Spend a Whole Day in Wulingyuan National Park (Avatar Mountain). Explore Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Tianzi Mountain with the Bailong Elevator and Tianzishan Cable Car.
  • Day 3: Spend a whole day in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Explore Huangshizhai Village with Huangshizhai Cable cars and hike in Jinbianxi Stream.

Highlights of Zhangjiajie 3-Day Itinerary in Wulingyuan

  1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Yuanjiajie):
  2. Tianzi Mountain:
  3. Bailong Elevator:
  4. Tianzishan Cable Car:
  5. Huangshizhai Village:
  6. Jinbianxi Stream:

Jinbianxi Stream is a serene waterway that meanders through lush greenery and dramatic rock formations. Ideal for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing boat ride, this beautiful stream allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil sounds of nature. The picturesque scenery makes it a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.

  1. Huangshizhai Cable Car:

The Huangshizhai Cable Car offers an exhilarating ride to the summit of Huangshizhai. As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape below. At the top, visitors are greeted with breathtaking vistas of the Avatar-like mountains, making it an excellent spot for hiking and photography.

Wild Monkeys in Jinbianxi Stream
Wild Monkeys in Jinbianxi Stream
Huangshizhai Observation Deck in Zhangjiajie
Huangshizhai Observation Deck in Zhangjiajie

Option Two: 1 Day in Wulingyuan + 1 Day in Tianmen Mountain (Tianmen Cave)

  • Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Transfer to Wulingyuan District
  • Day 2: Spend a Whole Day in Wulingyuan National Park (Avatar Mountain). Explore Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Tianzi Mountain with the Bailong Elevator and Tianzishan Cable Car. Stay overnight in Zhangjiajie City.
  • Day 3: Take Tianmenshan Cable Car to the top of Tianmen Mountain. Then spend a whole day exploring the wonder including Tianmen Cave (Heaven Gate), Glass Walkway along the cliff.

Highlights of Zhangjiajie 3-Day Itinerary in Wulingyuan & Tianmen Mountain

  1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Yuanjiajie):
  2. Tianzi Mountain:
  3. Bailong Elevator:
  4. Tianzishan Cable Car:
  5. Tianmenshan Cable Car:

The Huangshizhai Cable Car offers an exhilarating ride to the summit of Huangshizhai. As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape below. At the top, visitors are greeted with breathtaking vistas of the Avatar-like mountains, making it an excellent spot for hiking and photography.

  1. Tianmen Mountain Circle Routes

Once at the summit, explore the Tianmen Mountain Circle Routes, a series of thrilling walkways that wind along the cliffs. These paths offer unique perspectives of the stunning landscape and provide an exhilarating experience as you walk above the valleys. The combination of natural beauty and engineered pathways makes this a highlight of any visit.

  1. Tianmen Cave (Heaven Gate) with 999 Stairs

The Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven Gate, is a natural rock arch that is both awe-inspiring and symbolic. To reach this stunning site, visitors must climb the famous 999 stairs. The ascent is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Standing beneath the arch is a memorable experience, making this an essential stop in Zhangjiajie.

99 Steps of Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie
99 Steps of Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie
World's Longest Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, Zhangjiajie
World's Longest Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, Zhangjiajie

Option Three: 1 Day in Wulingyuan + 1 Day in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (Glass Bridge)

  • Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Transfer to Wulingyuan District
  • Day 2: Spend Whole Day in Wulingyuan National Park (Avatar Mountain). Explore Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Tianzi Mountain with the Bailong Elevator and Tianzishan Cable Car.
  • Day 3: Drive to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, and spend half a day experiencing the world’s longest and highest Glass Bridge and other thrilling activities. In the afternoon, transfer to Baofeng Lake to enjoy a leisure boat ride.

Highlights of Zhangjiajie 3-Day Itinerary in Wulingyuan & Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

  1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (Yuanjiajie):
  2. Tianzi Mountain:
  3. Bailong Elevator:
  4. Tianzishan Cable Car:
  5. Glass Bridge in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

The Glass Bridge in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is one of the most exhilarating attractions in the region. Spanning 430 meters across a deep canyon, this bridge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and lush greenery. Walking on the transparent floor provides an adrenaline rush as you look directly down at the canyon below. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and thrilling experience!

  1. Boat ride on Baofeng Lake

For a more tranquil experience, take a boat ride on Baofeng Lake. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, this serene lake is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of nature. As you glide across the lake, you may also spot traditional boats and hear the sounds of local music, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Baofeng Lake with Clear Water, Zhangjiajie
Baofeng Lake with Clear Water, Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie Itinerary 4 Days - Panoramic Route of Zhangjiajie

Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Transfer to Wulingyuan District

Upon your arrival at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport or Zhangjiajie Railway Station, you will be greeted by your private guide and transferred to your hotel in Wulingyuan District. This vibrant district is the gateway to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and offers a variety of accommodation options.

Day 2: Exploring the Avatar Mountains in Wulingyuan National Park

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Avatar Mountains. Begin your journey by ascending the iconic Yuanjiajie (Avatar Hallelujah Mountain) using the Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor elevator. Next, transfer to Tianzi Mountain with a shuttle bus. Experience the unique landscape of towering peaks. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and capture unforgettable memories. Finally, take the Tianzishan Cable Car down the mountain and back to the hotel.

Have fun in Zhangjiajie
Have fun in Zhangjiajie
Yuanjiajie Mountains, Zhangjiajie
Yuanjiajie Mountains, Zhangjiajie

Day 3: Thrilling Adventures at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Baofeng Lake

Venture to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, a natural wonder known for its towering cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation. Walk across the world's longest and highest glass bridge, suspended over a deep gorge, for a thrilling experience. Engage in other exciting activities like zip-lining or rafting in the canyon. In the afternoon, transfer to Baofeng Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride and take in the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Day 4: Ascending Tianmen Mountain

Begin your day by taking the Tianmenshan Cable Car, one of the longest cable car rides in the world, to reach the summit of Tianmen Mountain. Explore the iconic Tianmen Cave, a natural arch carved into the mountainside. Walk along the thrilling Glass Walkway, suspended along the cliff edge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Spend the rest of the day exploring other attractions on Tianmen Mountain, such as the Tianmen Temple and the Tianmen Mountain Nature Reserve.

Huangshizhai Village, Zhangjiajie
Huangshizhai Village, Zhangjiajie
Boating on Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie
Boating on Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie Itinerary 5 Days - How to Spend 5 Days in Zhangjiajie

Spending 5 days in Zhangjiajie allows you to explore this enchanting place more deeply. You can spend all 5 days sightseeing in Zhangjiajie’s three main scenic areas, or choose to take a day to explore Miao life in Fenghuang (Phoenix) Ancient Town. Here is the detailed itinerary:

Days 1-4: Panoramic View in Zhangjiajie, then transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town

Same as the 4-day itinerary. After finishing the Tianmen Mountain tour on the fourth day, head to Fenghuang Ancient Town for an overnight stay. It takes about 3 hours by car or around 1.5 hours by high-speed train. Once there, you can fully enjoy the lively nightlife of the Miao ancient town.

Day 5: Explore Fenghuang Ancient Town and return to Zhangjiajie.

Wake up early to experience the relatively peaceful riverside town. Spend some time wandering through the cobblestone alleys of the ancient city, admiring centuries-old architecture. After visiting Phoenix Ancient Town, return to Zhangjiajie City, bringing your journey to a perfect end.

Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan
Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan
Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan
Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan

Travel to Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel

Zhangjiajie is one of the most worthwhile destinations to visit in China. With over ten years of experience in creating personalized travel experiences, Asia Odyssey Travel will be your trusted partner for your Zhangjiajie tour. Whether traveling with parents or children, our professional local guide team in Zhangjiajie will ensure you and your family have unforgettable memories of your trip.

These Zhangjiajie Travel Guides can be helpful:

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