Just a short flight from Malaysia, Zhangjiajie feels like stepping into a fantasy world you’ve only seen in movies—and yes, Avatar fans, this is the place that inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains. When I first laid eyes on the towering sandstone pillars rising through the mist, I was completely stunned. It's the kind of view that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and go, “Whoa.” While cities like KL are all sleek buildings and city lights, Zhangjiajie is pure nature magic—wild, dramatic, and absolutely breathtaking.
What makes it even better? The Zhangjiajie weather is often cool and refreshing, especially in spring and autumn—perfect for long hikes, cable car rides, and scenic glass bridges. Whether you're chasing photo ops, looking for soft adventure, or just want to unwind in a natural hot spring, there’s something for every kind of Malaysian traveller. And with plenty of affordable places to stay in Zhangjiajie, from cozy guesthouses to luxury mountain resorts, your ringgit goes a long way here. Ready for an adventure that feels like a dream? Let’s dive into what to do in Zhangjiajie.
1. Marvel at the Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
The first time I saw the sandstone peaks of Zhangjiajie Forest Park, it felt like I had walked into a movie set. Mist curled around towering stone pillars, birds chirped from somewhere deep in the trees, and the air was unbelievably fresh. I stood at the famous “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain,” where the view stretched out into a sea of spires. Pure magic.
📖 About Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
China’s first national forest park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to otherworldly sandstone pillars, dense forests, and epic views.
📅 Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to November for cool, clear weather.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, though there’s a lot of walking—strollers not ideal.
✅ Opening Hours | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
📍 Location | Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province |
💰 Ticket Price | ¥228 for a 4-day entrance pass |
🚗 How to Get There | Take a local bus or Didi from downtown Zhangjiajie to Wulingyuan Entrance |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Wear sturdy shoes—it gets steep and slippery in places
✔️ Stay nearby for sunrise hikes without the crowds
✔️ Bring snacks—food inside is pricey and limited
Top Things To do In Zhangjiajie
12934 ditempah
2. Brave the Glass Bridge Over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
My knees were shaking a little, but the thrill was real. Walking across the world’s longest and highest glass bridge was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. Below me? A 300-meter drop straight into the canyon. Around me? Unreal views of cliffs, waterfalls, and lush greenery. And yes, I totally did the photo lying down on the glass floor!
📖 About the Glass Bridge
Suspended across the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, this record-breaking glass bridge is one of China’s most thrilling attractions.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Morning for clearer skies and fewer crowds.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Best for teens and adults—young kids might get scared.
✅ Opening Hours | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
📍 Location | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Scenic Area |
💰 Ticket Price | ¥138 for bridge only; package options available |
🚗 How to Get There | Take a shuttle from Wulingyuan or Zhangjiajie City |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Book tickets in advance online
✔️ Cameras not allowed—bring your phone
✔️ Wear shoe covers (provided) to avoid scratches
Recommended Hotels In Zhangjiajie
3. Ride the Bailong Elevator—World’s Tallest Outdoor Lift
Imagine soaring 300+ meters up the side of a cliff in under two minutes—with the entire landscape opening up in front of you. That’s the Bailong Elevator. From the glass cabin, you’ll see spires rise from the forest floor like something out of a fantasy. It’s fast, smooth, and kind of surreal.
📖 About Bailong Elevator
The world’s tallest outdoor lift, built into the cliffside of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, offering direct access to top viewpoints.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Mid-morning or early afternoon after the morning rush.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Ideal for those who want epic views without the hike.
✅ Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
📍 Location | Inside Zhangjiajie National Forest Park |
💰 Ticket Price | ¥72 one-way |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Combine with a visit to Yuanjiajie scenic area
✔️ Best view is near the glass side of the lift—stand close!
✔️ Gets crowded fast—go early or late in the day
Kuala Lumpur to Zhangjiajie
- Pergi Balik
- Sehala
KUL00:2014j 35m1 hentianDYG14:55Kuala Lumpur - Zhangjiajie|Isn, 26 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesDYG10:4012j 40m1 hentianKUL23:20Zhangjiajie - Kuala Lumpur|Jum, 30 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesSAR 956SAR 1,0469% OFF9% OFFSAR 1,046SAR 956- KUL00:2014j 35m1 hentianDYG14:55Kuala Lumpur - Zhangjiajie|Sel, 20 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesDYG10:4012j 40m1 hentianKUL23:20Zhangjiajie - Kuala Lumpur|Jum, 23 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesSAR 962SAR 1,0468% OFF8% OFFSAR 1,046SAR 962
- KUL00:2014j 35m1 hentianDYG14:55Kuala Lumpur - Zhangjiajie|Isn, 12 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesDYG10:4012j 40m1 hentianKUL23:20Zhangjiajie - Kuala Lumpur|Isn, 19 Jan|Sichuan AirlinesSAR 962SAR 1,0468% OFF8% OFFSAR 1,046SAR 962
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiDYG2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Zhangjiajie|Fri, Dec 12|Sichuan Airlines
DYG1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiKUL2:00 PMZhangjiajie - Kuala Lumpur|Fri, Dec 12|Sichuan AirlinesCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
Harga potongan adalah dikira berdasarkan harga purata laluan sepadan pada Trip.com.
4. Walk the Cliffside Glass Skywalk on Tianmen Mountain
If you thought the glass bridge was intense, wait until you're inching along a 1,400-meter-high glass skywalk that hugs the side of a mountain. The views? Jaw-dropping. The adrenaline? Next level. I pressed up against the cliff wall at first, but after a few deep breaths, I was peering through the glass at the tiny trees and winding roads far, far below. Worth every heartbeat.
📖 About the Glass Skywalk
A narrow glass path built onto the sheer cliffs of Tianmen Mountain, offering panoramic views of the valley below.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Late morning when the fog begins to lift—skywalks are closed in heavy rain.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Best for brave adults and older teens—not ideal for small kids or those afraid of heights.
✅ Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
📍 Location | Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie |
💰 Ticket Price | Included with Tianmen Mountain entrance (around ¥258) |
🚗 How to Get There | Take the world’s longest cable car from downtown Zhangjiajie |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Wear grip-friendly shoes and avoid heels
✔️ If you’re scared of heights, stick to the railing side
✔️ Cameras allowed—just don’t drop them!
🎡Popular Local Attractions & Cheap Tickets
Latest Trip.com Promo Code, Coupons, Flight Deals & Hotel Discounts for Malaysia
🎁Best Flight Deals on Trip.com
Latest Trip.com Flight Deals & Promotions for Malaysia
5. Ride the World’s Longest Cable Car Up Tianmen Mountain
This 30-minute ride isn’t just transportation—it’s a full-on scenic experience. As the cable car glided over fields, cliffs, and dense forest, I could see the infamous 99 bends of the mountain road curling beneath me. The air grew cooler with each minute, and by the time I reached the top, I felt like I’d entered another world.
📖 About the Tianmen Cable Car
The longest cable car ride in the world—7.4 km from city center to mountain summit.
📅 Best Time to Ride
Morning for fewer queues and misty, dreamy views.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, smooth and safe for all ages.
✅ Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
📍 Location | Start at Tianmen Cableway Station in Zhangjiajie City |
💰 Ticket Price | Included in Tianmen Mountain ticket |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Sit on the left side for better views going up
✔️ Avoid peak holidays—lines can get crazy
✔️ Bring a jacket—the summit is often chilly
6. Conquer the 999 Steps to Heaven’s Gate
Climbing 999 steps up to a massive natural cave called “Heaven’s Gate” sounds intense—and it is. But standing under that towering arch after the climb gave me chills. Some opt to take the escalator, but I went for the full stair experience. Sweaty? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
📖 About Heaven’s Gate
A massive natural hole in Tianmen Mountain, known as a sacred and symbolic place in Chinese culture.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Afternoon, after doing the cable car and skywalk.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
There’s an escalator for those who prefer not to climb.
✅ Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
📍 Location | Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area |
💰 Ticket Price | Included with Tianmen Mountain pass |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Climb the stairs for the challenge, ride down the escalator
✔️ Bring water and take your time
✔️ Avoid rainy days—it gets slippery
♥️One of the biggest challenges when traveling abroad is how to stay connected in Zhangjiajie? Don’t worry—you can opt for an eSIM! It’s affordable and incredibly convenient!
3GB/day 3 Days
- Data3GB Daily
- Validity3 Days
- PriceFrom RM17.83
20GB 5 Days
- Data20GB
- Validity5 Days
- PriceFrom RM37.57
20GB 7 Days
- Data20GB
- Validity7 Days
- PriceFrom RM40.72
7. Try Local Street Food in Wulingyuan Town
After a long day in the park, I strolled into Wulingyuan’s night market and followed my nose. Spicy grilled skewers, sizzling tofu, sweet rice cakes, and steamed buns—each bite told a story. I grabbed a stick of cumin lamb, a bowl of hot-and-sour noodles, and some crispy stinky tofu (don’t knock it till you try it!).
📖 What Makes This Food Scene Special?
Zhangjiajie’s street food is a fusion of Hunan spice, mountain ingredients, and bold local flavors.
📅 Best Time to Go
Evening, especially weekends for the lively night market vibe.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Totally! Just watch the spice level for kids.
✅ Opening Hours | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
📍 Location | Wulingyuan District Night Market |
💰 Cost | ¥5–¥30 per item |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Don’t miss the grilled tofu and wild mushroom skewers
✔️ Bring small notes and cash—some stalls don’t take QR payments
✔️ Ask locals what’s fresh that night!
8. Watch the "Charming Xiangxi" Folk Show
This wasn’t just a touristy performance—it was culture, history, and heart rolled into one. With acrobatics, ethnic Miao and Tujia music, and fire stunts, the Charming Xiangxi show blew me away. It’s performed in an open-air theatre with a mountain backdrop, and I actually got goosebumps during the traditional drum dance.
📖 About Charming Xiangxi
A cultural performance showcasing minority traditions and stories from the Zhangjiajie region.
📅 Best Time to Watch
Nighttime (shows usually start at 8:00 PM)
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, entertaining and educational for all ages.
✅ Opening Hours | Evenings only; show lasts ~1.5 hours |
📍 Location | Charming Xiangxi Theater, Wulingyuan |
💰 Ticket Price | ¥120–¥380 depending on seating |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Book VIP seats for better views and cushions
✔️ Some performances include fire shows and live animals—be prepared
✔️ Arrive early to explore the surrounding food stalls
9. Wander the Ancient Streets of Xibu Old Town
This restored village feels like stepping into a time capsule. Cobblestone alleys, traditional architecture, red lanterns swaying in the breeze—it’s a charming spot to shop, sip tea, or just soak up the vibe. I found hand-carved wooden combs, local chili sauce, and even tea made from mountain herbs.
📖 About Xibu Old Town
A cultural pedestrian street with architecture inspired by Tujia and Bai ethnic styles.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Evening for lights, live music, and cooler temperatures.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Plenty of space to walk and kid-friendly shops.
✅ Opening Hours | Shops open from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
📍 Location | Wulingyuan District |
💰 Ticket Price | Free entry |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️ Great place for souvenir shopping
✔️ Visit during sunset for stunning photo ops
✔️ Try the sweet osmanthus wine—it’s a local favorite
10. Celebrate Tujia "Sheba Festival" in Zhangjiajie
I had no idea what to expect when I joined the Sheba Festival in a small Tujia village near Zhangjiajie, but the moment I arrived, it was a full sensory feast. The air buzzed with the beat of traditional drums and the clang of silver jewelry worn by dancing Tujia women. Colorful embroidered costumes twirled in rhythm as firecrackers popped in the distance. Locals offered me homemade rice wine and fragrant sticky rice dumplings wrapped in leaves. Children played in the open square while elders watched proudly from wooden balconies. I joined in the celebratory “wave dance,” arms linked with strangers, moving in time to ancient folk songs that echoed through the mountains.
📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
The Sheba Festival is one of the most important cultural celebrations in Zhangjiajie, especially among the Tujia ethnic minority. It’s rooted in ancestor worship and community thanksgiving, and blends spiritual rituals with lively performances, food, and dance. Locals dress in traditional attire and host visitors with incredible warmth, making it a truly immersive experience.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! With open spaces, music, food, and friendly locals, it’s great for families and suitable for all ages. Most villages have gentle paths and shaded areas for resting.
📅 When & Where | March 3rd on the lunar calendar, mainly celebrated in Tujia villages around Wulingyuan and Cili County |
📍 Best Places to Experience It | Tujia Folk Custom Park, Maoyan River area, and Shiyanping Village |
💰 Cost | Free (some performances may charge a small fee) |
💡 Pro Tips
✔️Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be dancing and walking a lot
✔️Bring cash for local snacks and handmade souvenirs
✔️Arrive early to join the blessing rituals and witness the fire-lighting ceremony
Explore Zhangjiajie Now!
Zhangjiajie is one of those places that leaves a mark—majestic, mystical, and unlike anywhere else I’ve been. The towering peaks, misty forests, and surreal landscapes make it feel like a real-life fairytale. Sure, the weather can be unpredictable (hello, surprise fog!), and it gets a little crowded during peak seasons, but honestly? The views, the hikes, and the sheer beauty make it all so worth it.
What I love most is Zhangjiajie’s raw, untouched energy. Whether you’re sipping tea in a quiet old town or dangling off a glass skywalk, there’s always something unexpected around the corner. If you're looking at flights to Zhangjiajie, you’ll be glad to know there are often good deals out there. And with so many unique hotels in Zhangjiajie—from cozy stays near the park to hillside resorts—it’s easy to find something that fits your style. Now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing discounts on flights and hotels in Zhangjiajie right now. Can’t wait for you to experience it too—happy travels, my friend!
👉 Get Trip.com Exclusive Offers
👉Download the Trip.com App Now!
Zhangjiajie Travel FAQs
What’s the best way to get around Zhangjiajie?
Getting around Zhangjiajie depends on where you’re staying. If you’re in the city, taxis and Didi (China’s version of Uber) are the easiest way to get around. If you’re in Wulingyuan, the best way to explore is by using the park’s free shuttle buses, which run between major scenic spots. For longer distances, high-speed trains connect Zhangjiajie to cities like Changsha and Guangzhou. Buses run between Zhangjiajie City and Wulingyuan Scenic Area, taking about 40 minutes. Avoid driving yourself—the mountain roads can be tricky, and parking is limited near major attractions.Is Zhangjiajie safe for tourists?
Absolutely! Zhangjiajie is one of the safest travel destinations in China. The biggest safety concerns are steep cliffs, slippery trails, and unpredictable weather. Watch your step, especially on rainy days. For solo travelers, Zhangjiajie is safe even at night, though it’s best to stick to well-lit areas. Scams and pickpocketing are rare, but always double-check prices before taking taxis or buying souvenirs.What’s the best neighborhood to stay in?
Wulingyuan Town (Best for Sightseeing) – Closest to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with budget hotels and shuttle bus access. Zhangjiajie City (Best for Convenience) – Near the train station and Tianmen Mountain, with more shopping and dining options. Tianmen Mountain Area (Best for Luxury Travelers) – High-end resorts with stunning mountain views.What’s the best local food to try?
Sour Fish Soup (酸汤鱼) – A local specialty with a tangy, spicy broth. Tujia Bacon (土家腊肉) – Smoked pork with a deep, rich flavor. Sanxiaguo (三下锅) – A hearty hotpot dish made with pork, tofu, and potatoes. Zhangjiajie Rice Noodles (张家界米粉) – The go-to breakfast dish! 📍 Best places to eat: Jin Xin Ge (金鑫阁) in Wulingyuan for authentic local cuisine.What’s a common tourist mistake in Zhangjiajie?
Not planning for the weather! Zhangjiajie’s mountain climate is unpredictable—one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s foggy or rainy. Always pack a rain jacket, even in summer. Another mistake? Underestimating walking distances. Some attractions, like Tianmen Mountain, involve long stair climbs. Wear comfortable shoes and pace yourself.What’s the best time to visit Zhangjiajie for good weather & fewer crowds?
September to November is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie—cool temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear views. April to May is also great for lush greenery and misty mountain peaks. 🚫 Avoid: Golden Week (Oct 1-7) and summer (July-August)—crowds are insane, and the humidity can be unbearable.Do I need cash, or can I use a credit card everywhere?
China is mostly cashless, and Zhangjiajie is no exception. WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most widely accepted payment methods, even at small food stalls. 💰 If you don’t have mobile payments: Bring some Chinese yuan (CNY) for taxis and rural areas. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are rarely accepted outside of major hotels.