2-Day Private Zhangjiajie Tour to AVATAR & Tianmen Mountain

The 2-Day Private Zhangjiajie Tour to AVATAR & Tianmen Mountain offers an exciting glimpse into some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. Priced at $396 per person, this tour is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights of this unique region. Over two days, you’ll experience the famous Bailong Elevator, hike the surreal Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, cruise on the longest cablecar in the world to Heaven’s Gate, and walk the cliffside plank road on Tianmen Mountain.

What we love about this experience is how it balances accessible transportation with authentic adventure. The Bailong Elevator, towering 326 meters and whisking you to sandstone peaks in under two minutes, truly defines the thrill of Zhangjiajie. Plus, the Tianmen cablecar, stretching over 7.5 kilometers, offers vistas that seem to float above clouds—these are memories you’ll cherish.

A possible downside? The tour involves some long walks and stairs, especially the 999-stepped descent on Tianmen Mountain, which may be challenging for travelers with mobility issues or those not comfortable with steep inclines. That said, it’s still a well-organized trip suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery and a bit of physical activity.

This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that hits the main sights without the need to plan every detail yourself. It suits those with a limited schedule but big ambitions to see iconic landscapes, especially if you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor adventures.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience world-famous sights like Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Tianmen Cave with breathtaking scenery.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers key highlights in just two days, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation and guided service mean less stress and more focus on the sights.
• Unique Experiences: Ride the highest and fastest Bailong Elevator, and traverse the world’s longest cablecar.
• Authentic Adventure: Walk the cliffside plank road and stairs, offering a true sense of the region’s rugged beauty.
• Limited Time for Rest: The packed schedule means you’ll need to keep a good pace, but it’s all worth it for the views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect on This Zhangjiajie Tour

Day 1: Into the Realm of Pandora and Stone Columns

Your journey begins at 9:00 am when your guide, probably named Li or Zhang, greets you at your hotel lobby. They’re friendly and knowledgeable, ready to streamline your day. The first stop is the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the main stage for most of your adventures.

One of the most striking features of the park is the Bailong Elevator—the world’s highest and fastest sightseeing elevator. It’s a marvel of engineering, with three transparent glass elevators soaring 326 meters up a sandstone cliff in just 88 seconds. As you ascend, you’ll get an unparalleled view of the towering sandstone peaks that seem to grow straight out of the ground. Expect the sensation of a roller coaster, but with a view.

From the top, you’ll hike amidst the erupting stone columns at Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, famous for being the inspiration behind the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Many have said, “We loved the way the rock formations mimic the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain — it’s surreal.” As you walk through this landscape of towering pillars and lush greenery, you’ll see the South Sky Pillar, which at around 150 meters, is the prototype for the movie’s iconic floating mountain.

Next, you’ll visit the Enchanting Platform, which offers spectacular views of numerous pointed peaks resembling bamboo shoots and an almost otherworldly landscape. The scenery here is perfect for photos, and many visitors comment on how “pictures don’t do justice to the scale and grandeur of these stone giants.”

After lunch, you’ll take a sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain, famous for its “Wonders of Tianzi,” particularly the Xihai Peak Forest, where the unusual rock formations often appear shrouded in mist and clouds. The view is especially photogenic if you’re lucky with the weather. On a clear day, the landscape feels like a scene from a fantasy film.

The day wraps up with a ride on the Tianzi Cablecar, descending through a corridor of jagged, rocky hills. This is a highlight for many, offering extraordinary views of the landscape outside your glass windows.

Day 2: Sky-high Heights and the Magnificent Tianmen Cave

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be whisked away to Tianmen Mountain, home to some of the most dramatic scenery of the trip. The longest cablecar in the world, stretching over 7.5 kilometers, takes you from the base to the mountain’s summit. The ascent is a highlight—many travelers say, “Watching the landscape unfold beneath us is an experience that feels like floating in the sky.” The views are vast and changing, from lush forests to rugged cliffs covered in mist.

Once at the top, you’ll walk along the mountain plank road, a narrow path carved into the cliff face. It’s an exhilarating walk, with a sense of walking in a fairyland when the fog is heavy. From here, you’ll head to Tianmen Cave, a natural hole in the mountain that measures 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep. It’s a jaw-dropping sight, created by natural forces pressing into the mountain’s face.

To descend, you’ll walk down the steep 999 steps, with some sections inclining up to 45°. While that might sound intimidating, many describe the walk as “a real workout but worth every step,” thanks to the incredible views and the satisfying sense of accomplishment.

Your trip concludes with a transfer back to your hotel or to the airport or railway station, ready for the next adventure or some well-earned rest.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price covers English-speaking guides, private transportation, entrance tickets to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain, the Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Cablecar, glass Skywalk, and two escalators on Tianmen Mountain, plus travel insurance.

However, you’ll need to cover your own hotel stays, meals, tips, and the lift at Tianmen Mountain (separate from the cablecar). The inclusion of tickets and transportation makes this a good value for the ease it offers—no worries about navigating busy crowds or ticket lines.

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Practical Tips

Bring your passport for ticket validation, and be prepared for some physical activity—staircases and walking are part of the experience. The tour isn’t suited for pregnant women or those over 95, given the physical demands at Tianmen Mountain.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates stunning landscapes, iconic sights, and a well-organized schedule, this trip checks all the boxes. The combination of easy transportation, professional guides, and top attractions makes it perfect for those who want to maximize their limited time in Zhangjiajie.

It’s especially beneficial if your priority is authentic scenery and adventure, rather than a leisurely, low-key experience. The included elevators, cablecars, and walking tours give you a true taste of the region’s rugged beauty, but you should be prepared for some steep climbs and outdoor walking.

This tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Zhangjiajie’s most famous sights—from the floating mountains that look like they’re straight out of a movie to the dramatic cliffs and mountain caves. It’s a memorable way to see the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, many families find it manageable if children are comfortable with walking and stairs. The physical demands, especially on Tianmen Mountain, should be considered.

What should I bring for this tour?
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your passport. Weather can change quickly, so a light rain jacket might be useful.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or have lunch during breaks. Your guide can recommend local options.

Can I join if I’m afraid of heights?
Some parts involve heights, such as the glass elevator and mountain plank road. If heights are an issue, you might want to consider your comfort level with such experiences.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, especially the descent of Tianmen Mountain via the 999 steps. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking and stair climbing.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and clear skies, ideal for viewing the landscapes. Winter can be beautiful too, but expect colder temperatures and possible snow.

Are there any restrictions on the tour?
Pregnant women and travelers over 95 years old should consider other options due to the physical nature of walking and climbing.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility. Just ensure availability and confirm your booking beforehand.

How long do the cablecars and elevators take?
The Bailong Elevator ride lasts just 88 seconds, but the Tianzi Cablecar offers longer, more scenic rides. The Tianmen cablecar takes about 30 minutes up and down.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Clouds and fog can obscure views, but they also add to the mystique. Some attractions may close if visibility is too poor, but guides will adapt the schedule accordingly.

This 2-day private tour of Zhangjiajie offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and comfort. It’s perfect for those who want to see the region’s most iconic sights without fuss, all while enjoying the breathtaking beauty that has made this area famous worldwide.

You can check availability for your dates here: