Hello, I’m Michael Zhang! As a passionate Chinese travel enthusiast with a love for exploring the world, I’ve had the privilege of visiting countless breathtaking destinations. Over the years, my adventures have deepened my understanding of history and culture while sharpening my eye for uncovering nature’s most extraordinary wonders. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a detailed travel guide to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province. This park boasts stunning natural landscapes and a variety of thrilling activities—it’s an unforgettable destination you won’t want to miss!

An Introduction to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, located just 8 kilometers south of Zhangjiajie’s city center in Hunan Province, is the region’s highest peak. Famous for the awe-inspiring Tianmen Cave, it is often referred to as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie.” Featuring classic karst terrain, the mountaintop is covered with 90% pristine secondary forest, creating a natural oxygen bar. Throughout the year, the park offers incredible seasonal beauty, often earning it the title “The Sky Garden.” Visitors will marvel at its unique rock formations, rare vegetation, and daring skywalks and suspension bridges that make every step an adventure.

  • Address: No. 11, Dayong Middle Road, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province
  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry: 4:00 PM)
  • Recommended visit duration: 4–5 hours
  • Elevation: 1,518.6 meters (4,983 feet)
  • Best seasons to visit: Open year-round, with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant weather and vibrant scenery
Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Tianmen Cave and Stairway

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Map

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Illustrated Map

Why Visit Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park?

Magnificent Natural Wonders

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park is best known for its striking natural beauty. At the heart of the park lies Tianmen Cave, a natural archway measuring 131.5 meters (431 feet) in height, 57 meters (187 feet) in width, and 60 meters (197 feet) in depth. This high-altitude natural wonder is one of the rarest of its kind. Standing at the base of Tianmen Cave, you’ll be awed by its grandeur and the intricate patterns etched by nature over millennia.

Another highlight is the exhilarating mountain road leading to the peak. Stretching 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), this winding road features 99 sharp turns that climb steeply to the mountaintop. Known as the “Heaven-Linking Avenue,” this serpentine road offers one of the most thrilling driving experiences in the world.

Diverse Activities and Scenic Areas

The park is divided into four main scenic zones: Biye Yaotai (Emerald Fairyland), Mixian Qijing (Fairyland Quest), Tianjie Foguo (Heavenly Buddhist Kingdom), and Tianmen Dongkai (Tianmen Cave). Each zone offers unique natural attractions, including peaks, springs, streams, clouds, and forests.

Visitors can take the world’s longest cableway to the summit, stroll along the breathtaking glass skywalks, or explore the daring Ghost Valley Plank Road and suspension bridges. For adrenaline junkies, the glass-bottom skywalk at the mountaintop provides the ultimate thrill, offering vertigo-inducing views of the mountains below.

Things to Do in Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Top Attractions

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park offers not only breathtaking natural scenery but also thrilling and unique experiences. Here are some must-visit attractions:

Yunmeng Fairy Peak

As the highest point of Tianmen Mountain, Yunmeng Fairy Peak provides a stunning panoramic view of Zhangjiajie’s cityscape. On clear days, visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing sea of clouds that often envelops the peaks. Standing at the summit, you’ll feel the gentle mountain breeze as if you’ve stepped into a heavenly paradise. For photography enthusiasts, sunrise and sunset are the perfect times to capture the ethereal beauty of this location.

Yunmeng Fairy Peak Overlooking Clouds in Tianmen Mountain

Glass Skywalk

Famous for its thrill factor, the Glass Skywalk consists of three sections, each requiring visitors to wear shoe covers (priced at 5 RMB per pair). Although these walkways are not very long, they are suspended on towering cliffs with transparent glass floors, creating the illusion of walking on air. From the skywalk, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the 99 Bends Road below, making it an unforgettable photo opportunity and a favorite spot for adventurers.

Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk with Stunning Cliff Views

Guigu Plank Road

The Guigu Plank Road stretches 1,600 meters along the cliffs of Ghost Valley in the Fairyland Quest Scenic Area. At an elevation of around 1,400 meters, this walkway differs from typical cliff trails by running mid-way along the sheer rock face, seamlessly blending into the mountain itself. Walking along this suspended path feels like breathing in harmony with nature. Starting at Yihong Pass and ending at Xiaotianmen (Small Tianmen), the entire journey is both thrilling and visually captivating.

Guigu Plank Road Suspended Mid-Cliff in Tianmen Mountain

Tianmen Mountain Cableway

As the world’s longest high-mountain cableway, the Tianmen Mountain Cableway connects Zhangjiajie’s city center with the summit. Spanning 7,454 meters with a vertical rise of 1,277 meters, the cableway offers sweeping views of the mountain’s majestic scenery and the winding 99 Bends Road below. Some sections of the cableway feature an incline of up to 37 degrees, delivering an exhilarating ride that is not to be missed.

Tianmen Mountain Cableway Floating Above Clouds

Tianmen Cave

Tianmen Cave, the highest natural mountain arch in the world, is one of the park’s most iconic landmarks. Measuring 131.5 meters tall, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep, it is a geological wonder shaped over thousands of years. To reach the cave, visitors must climb 999 stone steps, famously known as the “Stairway to Heaven.” For those who prefer a less strenuous option, an escalator (priced at 35 RMB per person) offers a more convenient way to access this remarkable site.

Tianmen Cave Illuminated by Sunbeam

Through-Mountain Escalator

This engineering marvel is the world’s longest mountain tunnel escalator, cutting through the rock of Tianmen Cave to link the summit and the base. While riding the escalator, you’ll experience the mountain’s interior from a unique perspective, offering an extraordinary sensory experience.

Through-Mountain Escalator Inside Tianmen Mountain

99 Bends Road

Also known as the “Avenue to Heaven,” this 11-kilometer serpentine road features 99 sharp turns, resembling a dragon coiled around the mountain. Recognized as one of the most complex mountain roads in the world, it offers breathtaking views whether you’re driving along its hairpin bends or observing it from the cableway above. For thrill-seekers, it’s an essential part of the Tianmen Mountain experience.

99 Bends Road Zigzagging Through Tianmen Mountain

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Ticket Guide

Tickets for Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park are categorized into three different routes: A, B, and C. However, it’s important to note that all routes start and end at the Tianmen Mountain Cableway lower station. Each route allows you to visit all major attractions but in a different sequence. Choose the one that best fits your preferences and physical stamina. Generally, Route A is the most popular since it requires fewer uphill steps.

  • Route A: Start at the mountaintop and descend to the base.
  • Route B: Start at the base and ascend to the mountaintop.
  • Route C: Start at the base, ascend to the mountaintop, and return to the base.

Ticket Prices

The prices for all three routes are the same, and the details of what’s included are listed below. Note that the following prices do not include the optional 3 RMB insurance per person.

  • Admission fees:
    • Adults: 275 RMB
    • Students (age 14 and above, undergraduate or below): 144 RMB
    • Seniors (age 60–65): 144 RMB
    • Seniors (age 65+): 133 RMB
    • Children (under 14): Free
  • What’s included:
    • Route A: Admission ticket + cableway ride to the mountaintop + fast track cableway from Tianmen Cave to the base + downward through-mountain escalator
    • Route B: Admission ticket + fast track cableway to and from Tianmen Cave + round-trip through-mountain escalator
    • Route C: Admission ticket + fast track cableway to and from Tianmen Cave + round-trip through-mountain escalator
  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry: 4:00 PM)

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Online: Official WeChat account or popular travel platforms.
  • Offline: Tickets can be purchased at the park’s ticket counter with valid ID. Prices are the same as online purchases. Online booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to avoid sold-out tickets.

Guides at Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park does not offer official tour guide services. The primary focus here is on enjoying the breathtaking natural scenery, and the layout of attractions is straightforward and easy to navigate. Visitors can rely on park maps and signage to explore the area independently, making a guide unnecessary.

Additionally, free park brochures are available at the entrance and cableway stations. These brochures include detailed information about the attractions and suggested routes, making it easier for visitors to plan their own itinerary.

If You Have Ample Time (5-6 Hours)

Explore the entire park and experience the full loop from the west side to the east side. Here are two popular options:

  • Option 1: Route A + West Line + East Line Start with the west side and move eastward. Follow a counterclockwise path around the mountain’s summit, ending at the top station of the Through-Mountain Escalator to descend.
  • Option 2: Route B/C + East Line + West Line Begin with the east side and move westward. Follow a clockwise path from north to south, circling the mountain summit and finishing at Li Na’s Villa or the Through-Mountain Escalator’s top station for descent.

Tips for Safety:

  • Be cautious around wild monkeys. Avoid feeding them, maintain a safe distance, and avoid direct eye contact.
  • Keep your hands out of your pockets, and secure your personal belongings to prevent monkey-related incidents.
Wild Monkey in Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area

If You’re Short on Time (2-3 Hours)

Focus on the West Line for a shorter yet rewarding experience:

  • Walk along the West Line to Tianmen Mountain Temple.
  • Take the mountaintop forest sightseeing cable car to Yunmeng Fairy Peak for stunning views.
  • If you’re on Route A/C, descend by walking for 30 minutes from Yunmeng Fairy Peak to the Through-Mountain Escalator.
  • For Route B, use the vertical elevator from Yunmeng Fairy Peak and then line up for the main cableway to descend.

Best Time to Visit Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most picturesque seasons in Zhangjiajie. The park comes alive with blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, and chirping birds. In April, rhododendrons blanket the mountains, creating a breathtaking sea of blossoms. Spring is also perfect for hiking and enjoying the rejuvenating energy of nature.

Spring Bloom at Tianmen Mountain with Flowers and Clear Skies

Summer (June to August)

While temperatures in Zhangjiajie can rise in summer, the park’s higher altitude and lush greenery make it a refreshing escape from the heat. During July and August, frequent monsoon rains often create dramatic seas of clouds. Additionally, this season is ideal for waterfall enthusiasts, as the falls—like those in Huanglong Cave and Tianmen Mountain—reach their peak flow, showcasing their majestic power.

Summer View of Tianmen Mountain with Lush Greenery

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings the most vibrant colors to Zhangjiajie, as the forests transform into a patchwork of reds, oranges, and yellows. Late September to early October offers the best autumn foliage and the chance to experience local cultural festivals. With fewer crowds than in summer, the cooler weather and stunning views make for a tranquil visit.

Autumn Colors Covering Tianmen Mountain in Golden Hues

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Zhangjiajie offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Occasionally, snowfall blankets the mountains, turning them into a picturesque winter wonderland. Snow-covered peaks and trails create a unique contrast to the park’s usual scenery. While visitor numbers are lower and some services may be limited, winter is the perfect time for those seeking a quieter, more meditative experience.

Snow-Covered Tianmen Mountain in Winter Wonderland

How to Get from Zhangjiajie City Center to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

By Bus

Several bus routes in Zhangjiajie City can take you directly to the lower station of the Tianmen Mountain Cableway:

  • Bus Route 6: Departs from Zhangjiajie Railway Station and stops at key city locations, reaching the cableway station in about 5 minutes. The fare is 1 RMB.
  • Bus Route 5: Also departs from the railway station, following a similar route. The ride takes approximately 5 minutes and costs 1 RMB.
  • Bus Route 4: Covers other parts of the city, stopping at major landmarks. The trip to the cableway station takes about 10 minutes, with a fare of 1 RMB.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services

For a faster and more convenient option, consider taking a taxi or a ride-sharing service:

  • Taxi: From Zhangjiajie Railway Station to the Tianmen Mountain Cableway lower station, the fare is approximately 10 RMB.
  • Ride-Sharing: Costs vary depending on the car type and time of day, but they are usually comparable to taxi fares.

How to Get from Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

By Bus

From the Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, you can take bus routes 4, 5, or 6 to the City Garden Cableway Station (the lower station of Tianmen Mountain Cableway). The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs 1 RMB.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide direct access from the airport to the park in approximately 10 minutes. The cost is around 30 RMB, making this a quick and convenient option for visitors.

Impression Old Stove Three-Pot Hotpot (Tianmen Mountain Cableway Branch)

  • Address: S4-S5, Huatian Jinpu, Huatiancity, Guanliping, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie City
  • Average Cost: 62 RMB per person
  • Must-Try Dishes:
    • Steamed Artemisia Cake (蒿子粑粑): A local delicacy with a crispy exterior and chewy interior, offering a subtly sweet flavor with a touch of gooeyness.
    • Bamboo Tube Pickled Rice (竹筒腌菜饭): Served with unlimited refills of pickled vegetables, this savory dish is incredibly satisfying and pairs perfectly with the rice.
Bamboo Rice and Local Dishes from Impression Old Stove Restaurant

FAQ

Is Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Suitable for Strollers?

Due to the mountainous terrain, which includes numerous steps and steep trails, strollers are not recommended. Many visitors suggest using a baby carrier or sling to ensure a smooth and comfortable visit with young children.

Where Can I Store My Luggage?

The lower station of the Tianmen Mountain Cableway offers luggage storage services for the convenience of visitors. Fees are as follows:

  • Large Luggage: Items with a combined length, width, and height exceeding 1.2 meters or weighing over 15 kilograms cost 10 RMB.
  • Standard Luggage: Smaller items can be stored for 5 RMB.