The Avatar Mountains. That is how Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is being promoted across China and around the world. Giant sandstone pinnacles rise skyward from the valley floor, some up to 200m tall with tufts of evergreen shrubs clinching to their narrow summits. Thousands of these striking monoliths are eroded into the earth like a towering stone forest. Their powerful beauty is contrasted by its remote inaccessibility. This is a place of awe and humility. Somewhere that one would think had never had human eyes laid upon them. It is easy to see the comparison between Zhangjiajie’s mountains and those of the mythical Pandora. Buried deep in the Hunan province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the greater Wulingyuan Scenic Area, holds the esteemed title of being China’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When visiting the area, there are two main cities to be familiar with. Zhangjiajie city which is where Tianmenshan is and Wulingyuan city which is where the main entrance to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is. I recommend staying one night at Zhangjiajie city to visit Tianmenshan, and the remainder of the nights at Wulingyuan, to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Generally, April to October is the best time to visit this area. From April to June especially, it is the rainy season which means there is a higher chance of viewing the sought after 'yun hai' - sea of clouds amongst the mountains.

Dishes in Zhangjiajie has characteristic of Hunan cuisine as well as local own flavor, with spicy food are mainly served. The sautéed and pickled dishes of Tujia people are also very special. Check the recommended Restaurants in Zhangjiajie.

There are different minority groups in Zhangjiajie, Miao, Tujia, Bai and other people. The Torch Festival held on July 25th is the biggest events for Bai minority groups, to celebrate the eradication of pests and protection of crops. In the evening of that day, every residence must ignite torches and then get together, forming a fire. People leap back and forth from the fire to pray for a good reap of the crop.

1)  You will have some hikings in Zhangjiajie. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress appropriately: for weather, activity level and to respect local customs. Your guide can advise you on suitable clothing in advance of your tour.

2) Be open-minded and respect the local culture. We hear this a lot, but what exactly does it mean? In a nutshell, it means understanding that things are likely going to be different than at home – and that’s OK. Travelers who spend their whole time in judgment of different customs and behaviors end up complaining more about their trip than enjoying it.