Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located in the heart of Hunan Province in China and certainly marks it as the weirdest beautiful place that can ever be seen on Earth. From towering pillars of sandstones to mist-lapped peaks bringing lush greenery and magic right before the eyes of the lover of nature to all adventurers and photographers, the abode comes true for this great imagination. It was the first national forest park of the country, established in 1982 and included into the UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan Scenic Area in 1992. Zhangjiajie’s otherworldly landscape has even inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains of James Cameron’s blockbuster film Avatar.
A Land of Pillars of Sandstone
The many thousands of pillars of quartz sandstone in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park characterize this type of park and, for some of them, vertically pierce the skyline well above 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) from sea level, creating breathtaking panoramas frequently described as being surreal or of another fantasy world. Such forms have been fashioned by millions of years of erosion and tectonic activity plus weathering and take on this characteristic vertical form.
Popular Attractions of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
1. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
One of the most prominent areas within the park is the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, with Avatar Hallelujah Mountain at its peak. The great tall rock pillar formerly known as Southern Sky Column made a world-famous attraction because it inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. This majestic scenery was complimented with clouds, especially at the peak area, as these shroud it at times creating mystique.
2. Tianzi Mountain
Panoramic on endless sandstone peaks that stretch into the horizon, Tianzi Mountain is called the “Monarch of the Peak Forest.” This venue is at more than 1,200 metres (3,940 feet) above sea level and is replete with sunrises and seas of clouds. The mountain was named after local Tujia ethnic minority leader Xiang Dakun who, during the Ming Dynasty, led a peasant uprising.
3. Golden Whip Stream (Jinbianxi)
The leisurely visitor must not miss Golden Whip Stream. As the name indicates, it is very photogenic with 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles) of crystal-clear stream along which tourists walk passing and winding through deep canyons into forests. Peaceful walks along the stream bring unexpectedly included sheer rock formations; spotting macaques or squirrels occasionally with exotic birds.
4. Bailong Elevator: It is the world’s tallest exterior elevator
There are also exciting times for adventure seekers who want to see Zhangjiajie from a completely different angle in the Bailong Elevator, or “Hundred Dragons Elevator,” built into the face of the cliff itself. It rises 326 metres (1,070 feet) up an impassable wall of rock, so steep is its angle. For the visitor, in reality, it forms the world’s tallest outdoor lift, offering very dramatic and breathtaking views of sandstone peaks.
5. Huangshi Village (Huangshizhai)
Another fine view of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the Huangshi Village that sits at a height of about 1,080 meters, or approximately 3,543 feet above sea level. In this place would be the widest views of sandstone formations as well as some sea of clouds. To see this place one has to ascend steep slopes on foot or else ride on the convenient cable car.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Not only does Zhangjiajie National Forest Park attract attention due to the beauty of geological formations they boast but also because of their unprecedented richness in biodiversity. More than 720 plant species have been discovered here, ranging from ancient ginkgo trees and pine forests to medicinal herbs. The diverse ecosystem inhabits animal species like Chinese water deer, rhesus macaques, and pangolins; over 150 bird species also flourish within the park. Also one of the biggest amphibians in the world can be seen here in the fresh waters of the Chinese giant salamander.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park depends on what kind of experience you want to have:
Spring (March–May) Lush greenery, flowers in bloom, and pleasant temperature.
Summer (June–August) Good time to explore; however, gets very crowded at times; misty peaks, and sometimes some rain showers.
Autumn: September to November: The forest is wonderful for photography. The trees wear a colorful gown of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Winter: December to February. It is a view as the peaks are snow capped and fewer tourists are there.
There are already going routes to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park using its entrance from Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, coming through major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Tourists can use high-speed trains that take them straight to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station; it takes about 40 minutes by car from that station heading inside the city.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Dress Comfortable- The entire park is very long and requires so much walking and climbing of stairs.
Start Early- One avoids crowds and the serenity of nature can be enjoyed.
Utilize the Free Shuttle Bus- The park has free shuttle buses to different scenic spots.
Pack Light but carry the Essentials – Carry a raincoat, some snacks, and water bottles.
Respect the Wildlife and Nature- Do not feed monkeys; dispose of the garbage properly.
Conclusion
These are surreal landscapes portraying misty forests and towering pillars of sandstone, making them one of the natural wonders in China, an attraction that holds people fascinated. From the world’s tallest elevator ride to these mystical valleys, this Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is never going to let anyone forget the experiences over here. The world of tourism awaits such an adventure within the Chinese realm.
