由 wangyuning21@gmail.com Detailed Introduction to Tianmenshan National Forest Park, covering its features, admission tickets, and classic tour routes.
Park Overview
Tianmenshan National Forest Park is located in Yongding District, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, just 8 kilometers from the city center. It is Zhangjiajie’s second national forest park. Unlike the karst peaks of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan), it is renowned for its towering solitary peaks, the spectacular natural karst cave piercing the mountain—Tianmen Cave—and its thrilling suspended walkways. It is hailed as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie.”
Core Attractions and Experiences:
Tianmen Cave: The world’s highest natural karst cave at an elevation of 1,315 meters, measuring 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep. Resembling a gateway to the heavens, it stands as Tianmen Mountain’s iconic landmark. The “Heavenly Ladder”—a 999-step staircase—leads directly to the cave entrance, creating a majestic spectacle.
Tianmen Mountain Cableway: Directly connecting Zhangjiajie city center to the summit, this 7,455-meter-long cableway is the world’s longest single-track, closed-loop high-altitude passenger system. Riding it feels like traversing an aerial garden, offering panoramic views of the “Heavenly Road” below and the majestic mountain scenery.
Glass Walkways: Three transparent walkways (East Line, West Line, Panlong Cliff) are built on sheer cliffs. Walking on them, with a sheer drop below, offers an exhilarating test of courage.
Ghost Valley Walkway: Winding along sheer cliffs for approximately 1,600 meters, this path is named after the legendary hermit Guiguzi, who is said to have practiced here. Walking along it allows visitors to appreciate the perilous cliffs and breathtaking scenery.
Heavenly Road: This winding mountain road leading to Tianmen Cave features 99 hairpin turns and is hailed as “the world’s most spectacular road.” The eco-friendly shuttle’s spiraling ascent offers thrilling views.
Ticket Information
Tianmenshan Scenic Area implements a real-name reservation system. On-site ticket sales are minimal; advance booking is essential.
Ticket Prices (Reference):
Full-price Adult Ticket: ¥275 (Official price subject to seasonal fluctuations; refer to booking page for current rates).
Discounted Tickets: Discounts apply to minors, students, seniors, military personnel, and other eligible groups. Valid ID required.
Included in Admission: Typically covers the cable car ride to/from the summit and eco-friendly shuttle within the scenic area.
Additional Fees:
Summit Forest Sightseeing Cable Car: ¥25/person (one-way), connects Yunmeng Xianting to Cherry Bay Restaurant. Optional.
Tianmen Cave Mountain-Penetrating Escalator: ¥32/person (one-way, from summit to Tianmen Cave), optional.
Glass Walkway Shoe Cover Fee: ¥5/person/pair (mandatory maintenance fee).
Ticket Purchase Channels:
Official Channels: Most recommended via the WeChat official account “Zhangjiajie Tianmenshan Scenic Area” or the WeChat/Alipay mini-program “Tianmenshan” for reservation and ticket purchase.
Authorized Platforms: Also available through officially authorized online travel agencies (OTAs) like Ctrip and Tongcheng.
Tour Routes
Tianmenshan’s tour routes are highly classic. When purchasing tickets, you must select one of the three routes (A, B, or C) along with your precise entry time slot.
1. Route A: Cable Car Up, Highway Down (Most Popular, Recommended First Choice)
Itinerary: Take the cable car from the downtown Tianmen Mountain Cable Car Lower Station → Directly to the summit → Explore the East and West Routes → Descend via the mountain-piercing escalator to Tianmen Cave → Walk down the 999-step staircase (or take the paid escalator) to the Cave Entrance Plaza → Take the scenic eco-bus along the Heavenly Road back to the cable car lower station.
Advantages: Offers the most immersive cable car experience with aerial views of Heavenly Road. The eco-bus descent along the winding mountain road provides thrilling scenery. The route descends from high to low elevations, minimizing physical exertion.
2. Route B: Road ascent, cable car descent (reverse of Route A, also excellent)
Itinerary: Take the scenic eco-bus from the city cable car lower station up Heavenly Road → Proceed to Tianmen Cave Plaza → Climb the 999-step staircase (or take the paid escalator) to the cave entrance → Ride the mountain-piercing escalator to the summit → Explore the East and West Routes → Take the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car from the upper station directly back to the city.
Advantages: Start with the challenge, then enjoy the reward—experience the thrill of the Skyway first before taking the cable car down effortlessly. Effectively avoids crowds on Route A.
3. Route C: Road up, road down (Not recommended)
Itinerary: Use scenic eco-buses both ways; take the fast cable car to/from Tianmen Cave Square. Cannot experience the full 7,455-meter cable car journey.
Characteristics: Suitable when the main cable car is closed due to weather or maintenance, or for visitors solely interested in Tianmen Cave. Incomplete experience for most tourists.
Mountain Summit East-West Route Recommendations:
West Route (approx. 2.7 km): Concentrated attractions including the Glass Walkway (West Route), Guigu Cliff Walkway, and Suspension Bridge—the premier choice for thrill-seeking.
East Route (approx. 3.5 km): Features expansive views, pristine forests, and distant vistas of Tianmen Cave, with relatively gentle terrain.
Grand Loop: If time and stamina permit, complete the full East-West loop to take in all summit scenery.
Practical Tips
Book in Advance: Purchase tickets 1-3 days ahead, especially during holidays. Popular time slots for Routes A/B sell out quickly.
Arrive on Time: Strictly adhere to your scheduled entry time for ticket verification. Missing your slot may result in denied access.
Weather Selection: Opt for sunny days whenever possible, as dense fog can obscure views entirely. That said, mist-shrouded landscapes offer a unique charm.
Attire & Gear: Summit temperatures are 5-8°C cooler than the city, with strong winds. Bring a jacket. Wear comfortable, flat, non-slip shoes.
Know Your Limits: The 999-step stairway is extremely steep and can be hard on your knees. Consider using the paid escalators (available at both the entrance and exit of Tianmen Cave) based on your physical condition.