Wulingyuan scenic area
travel wonder in China

Why the
Wulingyuan scenic area
is special

The vast Wulingyuan scenic area is most famous for its 3,000 quartzite limestone rock pinnacles (see photo). Some are as high as 20 story buildings. Each is uniquely shaped and some resemble familiar animals or objects.

Interesting insights about
the Wulingyuan scenic area


Wulingyuan has many remarkable attractions besides the rock formations. These include viewing the panoramic vista from the top of Mount Tianzi (accessible by trail or cable car) touring the sizable Huanglong Cave cruising photogenic Baofeng Lake hiking along the picturesque Golden Whip river trekking in the dense, virgin subtropical forest that covers most of Wulingyuan and visiting the ethnic Tujia villages.

The term "Wulingyuan scenic area" does not define a distinct geographical entity.  It is the collective name for the Zhangjiajie national park and two nature reserves.

Wulingyuan scenic 
area tidbits


The destination was rarely known or visited by tourists until the mid 1980s because it was remote and relatively inaccessible. Today, the annual Wulingyuan visitor count is in the millions.

The rock formation pinnacles were slowly sculpted over eons by geological forces (especially water and wind erosion).

Tips for your 
vacation tour or trip


Mid April to mid May and mid September through October are the best times in terms of climate to visit Wulingyuan.

If you are visiting during the peak season (late May through September), go on weekdays because the desired natural serenity of the Wulingyuan scenic area is traumatized on weekends by droves of bullhorn toting tour guides. 

Nearest major city
The Wulingyuan scenic area is situated about 200 kilometers (125 miles) northwest of Changsha, the capital of Hunan province.

Pronunciation guide
Wulingyuan:  will'ng-you'ahn



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