Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain
The Avatar mountains — towering sandstone pillars that inspired a Hollywood blockbuster
Intro
Yuanjiajie is the plateau area within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park that provided the visual inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron's Avatar. The Hallelujah Mountain itself — officially renamed Avatar Hallelujah Mountain in 2010 — is a towering quartzite pillar rising 1,080 metres that appears to float above the forest canopy when viewed through morning mist. The plateau offers the most dramatic panoramic views in the park.
Best Time to Visit
September-October for clear skies and autumn colour. March-May for mist and atmospheric conditions. Avoid Chinese national holidays.
Highlights
- The First Bridge Under Heaven is a natural rock bridge connecting two cliff faces at dizzying height. Hallelujah Mountain is best photographed in early morning when low cloud drifts between the pillars. The Bailong Elevator — the world's highest outdoor lift — rises 326 metres up a cliff face in 2 minutes and is the primary access route to the plateau.
Getting There
Enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park from Zhangjiajie city (45 minutes by taxi). The Bailong Elevator (included in park ticket) or the longer hiking trail both access the Yuanjiajie plateau.
Tickets & Entry
Combined park ticket ¥245 (valid 4 days, covers Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Yangjiajie). Bailong Elevator included in park ticket.
Practical Tips
The Bailong Elevator queues can be very long — arrive early or hike up via the forest trail (2 hours). The plateau viewpoints become crowded by 10am. Mist and cloud, while reducing visibility, actually enhances the floating mountain effect — don't be deterred by overcast conditions.
More in Zhangjiajie
Tianmen Mountain & Glass Skywalk
Tianmen Mountain — Heaven's Gate arch, glass walkways, and the world's longest cable car
Golden Whip Stream
Golden Whip Stream — the most beautiful forest trail in Zhangjiajie
Tianzi Mountain
Tianzi Mountain — the most dramatic viewpoint over Zhangjiajie's pillar landscape
FAQ
Quick Facts
| Duration | 4-6 hours |
| Best time | September-October for clear skies and autumn colour. March-May for mist and atmospheric conditions. Avoid Chinese national holidays. |