Zhangjiajie, located in Hunan Province, China, is famous for its breathtaking sandstone pillars, lush forests, and thrilling attractions such as Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain. If you’re planning a trip, you might be wondering: How many days do you need to fully experience Zhangjiajie?

The ideal duration of your stay depends on your interests, pace, and travel style. However, most visitors find that 3 to 5 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Zhangjiajie’s major attractions without feeling rushed. Here’s a breakdown of different itineraries to help you plan your trip.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Quick Trip (2 Days) – For Travelers on a Tight Schedule

If you have only 2 days, focus on the most famous attractions:

Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Take a shuttle to Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views of the sandstone pillars.
• Explore Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, home to the famous “Avatar Hallelujah Mountains.”
• Walk through the Golden Whip Stream, a peaceful valley surrounded by towering cliffs.

Day 2: Tianmen Mountain

• Ride the world’s longest cable car up to Tianmen Mountain.
• Walk on the thrilling glass skywalk along the cliffside.
• Visit Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Gate) for a breathtaking experience.
• Take a scenic drive on the 99 Bends Road, one of the world’s most exciting roads.

⚠️ Note: A 2-day trip is intense and may not allow enough time for a relaxing experience.

2. Classic Zhangjiajie Experience (3-4 Days) – The Recommended Itinerary

A 3-4 day itinerary allows you to explore Zhangjiajie’s highlights at a comfortable pace.

Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Visit Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie Scenic Area (Avatar Mountains).
• Take the Bailong Elevator, a glass elevator built into the cliffside.
• Walk along the Golden Whip Stream trail for a more relaxed experience.

Day 2: More of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Explore Yangjiajie Scenic Area, known for its adventurous hiking trails.
• Visit Huangshi Village, a high-altitude viewpoint with fewer crowds.
• Enjoy the Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic valley accessible by foot or sightseeing train.

Day 3: Tianmen Mountain & Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

• Spend the morning at Tianmen Mountain for stunning views and the glass skywalk.
• In the afternoon, visit the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and walk on the world’s longest glass bridge.

Day 4: Optional Side Trip to Fenghuang Ancient Town

• If you have extra time, take a 3-hour drive to Fenghuang Ancient Town, a charming riverside town with traditional Miao ethnic culture.

3. In-Depth Zhangjiajie (5+ Days) – For Nature Lovers and Photographers

For those who love nature and photography, spending 5 days or more in Zhangjiajie allows for a deeper exploration of the region.

• Spend more time hiking lesser-known trails in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
• Visit Baofeng Lake, a beautiful lake surrounded by karst mountains.
• Explore Yellow Dragon Cave, one of China’s largest karst caves.
• Take a day trip to Furong Ancient Town, a picturesque waterfall town.

This itinerary is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers who prefer a slower pace.

Best Time to Visit Zhangjiajie

• Spring (March-May): Lush greenery, pleasant temperatures.
• Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, stunning autumn foliage.
• Summer (June-August): Warm and humid, but also peak tourist season.
• Winter (December-February): Fewer tourists, but some areas may be closed due to snow.

Final Thoughts: How Many Days Should You Spend in Zhangjiajie?

• 2 days if you’re in a hurry and only want to see the highlights.
• 3-4 days for a well-balanced trip covering all major attractions.
• 5+ days if you want a deeper, more relaxed exploration.

Since Zhangjiajie is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, spending at least 3-4 days ensures you won’t miss out on its breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences.