The best one-day tour route to Wulingyuan (recommended self-driving travel guide)

In Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, there is a place known as the "Wonderland on Earth", and that is Wulingyuan. Wulingyuan is world-famous for its magnificent landscapes and rich cultural heritage. If you plan a day trip, choosing the best route will allow you to fully experience the beauty and charm of Wulingyuan. In this article, I will recommend you the best route for a self-driving trip to help you have an unforgettable day trip.

1. Depart in the morning and head to Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area

In the morning, after preparing your luggage and vehicle, set off for Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area. This scenic spot is the core of Wulingyuan and the focus of your day trip. You can choose to drive there by yourself or rent a car. Either way, make sure your vehicle is in good condition to ensure a safe and smooth trip.

2. Visit Yuanjiajie and feel the uncanny craftsmanship of nature

After arriving at Wulingyuan Scenic Area, first visit Yuanjiajie. Yuanjiajie is one of the representative attractions of Wulingyuan, with magnificent peaks, strange rocks and dense forests. You can choose to take the sightseeing elevator or hike up the mountain to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Yuanjiajie. Remember to bring your camera to create beautiful memories.

3. Go to Huanglong Cave and explore the wonders of the underground world

Start from Yuanjiajie and continue on to Huanglong Cave. Huanglong Cave is one of the largest limestone caves in China and a world natural heritage. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the wonders of the underground world and admire magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. The temperature inside the cave is low, so remember to bring a jacket to protect yourself from the cold.

4. During lunch time, taste authentic Hunan food

After visiting Huanglong Cave, you must be hungry. There are many restaurants for you to choose from near Wulingyuan, which serve a variety of Hunan cuisine. You can taste authentic Hunan dishes such as fried pork with chili pepper, hot and sour rice noodles, fish head with chopped pepper, etc. to satisfy your taste buds.

5. Visit Tianmen Mountain in the afternoon and appreciate the magnificent landscape.

After lunch, continue your Wulingyuan trip to Tianmen Mountain. Tianmen Mountain is the highest natural mountain gate in China and one of the iconic attractions in Zhangjiajie. You can choose to take the ropeway or hike up the mountain to enjoy the magnificent scenery. Standing on the top of Tianmen Mountain and overlooking the entire Wulingyuan will give you a refreshing feeling.

6. Return to Wulingyuan Scenic Area and watch the sunset

After the tour of Tianmen Mountain, return to Wulingyuan Scenic Area. In the evening, you can choose a suitable location in the scenic area to watch the sunset. The sunset here is very beautiful, giving the entire scenic spot a golden glow. Remember to bring your camera to capture this beautiful moment.

7. At dinner time, taste local snacks

After watching the sunset, it was time for dinner. There are many snack stalls near Wulingyuan where you can taste local specialties such as barbecue, hot and sour noodles, fried rice cakes, etc. Not only are these snacks delicious, they are also affordable, making them a great choice.

8. End the day trip and return to your accommodation

After dinner, you can choose to return to your accommodation to rest or continue walking around Wulingyuan. If you plan a multi-day trip, you can choose to stay in a nearby hotel or B&B. If it is just a one-day trip, then return to your accommodation to rest and end this unforgettable trip to Wulingyuan.

Summary:

In this article, I recommend you the best route for a one-day trip to Wulingyuan. By visiting scenic spots such as Yuanjiajie, Huanglong Cave and Tianmen Mountain, you can appreciate the magnificent landscape and rich culture of Wulingyuan. At the same time, you can also taste authentic Hunan cuisine and local snacks. I hope this guide will be helpful to you on your trip to Wulingyuan, and I wish you a pleasant stay!