Zhangjiajie Bailong Elevator and Hallelujah Mountains: A Complete Guide to Zhangjiajie National Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province is China's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its unique quartzite pillars, which inspired the film "Avatar" to create the floating mountains of Pandora.

## Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯) — "Hundred Dragon Elevator"

### Basic Information
- Height: 326 meters (the tallest outdoor elevator in the world)
- Ascent Time: 1 minute 32 seconds
- Capacity: Up to 50 people per cabin
- Cost: 72 yuan one-way (about $10)
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM (may vary seasonally)

### Practical Tips
- Arrive early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) — queues can reach 2-3 hours
- During peak periods (holidays, weekends), the wait can exceed 4 hours
- Alternatively, take the Golden Whip Stream hiking trail (2-3 hours ascent)
- Buy tickets in advance through official platforms

## Hallelujah Mountains (Avatar Mountains)

### What is it? This
Officially called the Southern Pillar of Heaven (南天一柱), it was renamed in 2010 in honor of the film "Avatar." This 150-meter quartzite column became the prototype for the floating mountains of Pandora.

### How to get there
1. By Bailong Elevator: the fastest way to reach the observation decks
2. By foot along Golden Whip Stream: a scenic but long route
3. Yangjiajie Cable Car: an alternative route with different views

### Best Viewpoints
- Avatar Hallelujah Mountain Platform — the main observation deck
- Tianzi Mountain — panoramic views of the "stone forest"
- Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge — a 430-meter-long glass bridge (separate fee)

## Planning a Visit

### Best Time
- Best Seasons: April-May and September-October
- Avoid: Chinese holidays (Golden Week in October, New Year)
- Weather: Frequent fog — check the forecast in advance

### Tickets and Prices
- Park entrance fee: 248 RMB (4 days)
- Bailong Elevator: 72 RMB
- Cable cars: 67-76 RMB each
- Total cost: about 400-500 RMB per person

### What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Raincoat (weather varies)
- Water and snacks (food in the park is expensive)
- Power bank for your phone
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