Recommended for those planning to climb Tianmen Mountain in April-May (beginner-friendly guide)

A Super Detailed Travel Guide to Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Mountain, standing tall in Zhangjiajie, is renowned for Tianmen Cave, the world's highest natural mountain-penetrating cave. Resembling a magnificent gateway to heaven, it pierces through the mountain north to south, reaching towards the sky. Only when you ascend the 999 steps and stand beneath Tianmen Cave can you truly appreciate its majestic grandeur and the magic of nature's craftsmanship. Route Options Tianmen Mountain offers three sightseeing routes: A, B, and C: - Route A: Ascend by cable car and descend the 999 steps. - Route B: Climb the 999 steps and descend by cable car. - Route C: Hike the entire route, requiring backtracking and taking considerably longer; not recommended. Routes A and B only differ in direction. Choose based on your physical condition and preference. I opted for Route B, starting early in the morning when there were fewer visitors, for an optimal experience. Route B Itinerary Arriving at the gate: Take a taxi to the "Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Gate parking lot." As soon as you get out, look up to see Tianmen Cave. Even from afar, its imposing presence is awe-inspiring. Taking the shuttle cable car: After passing through the ticket gate, take the shuttle cable car. This short 5-minute ride offers a unique perspective of Tianmen Mountain. A 15-minute walk along a winding path from the cable car station leads to the viewing platform below Tianmen Cave, a perfect spot for photos. Climbing the 999 steps: The latter half of the staircase is steeper, but handrails on both sides ensure safety, even in rainy conditions. The climb takes about 30 minutes. If you're not feeling up to it, or if you're with elderly people or children, you can take the elevator to the top. Taking the escalator through the mountain: After reaching Tianmen Cave, take a short break before riding the escalator to the summit. The escalator has seven sections and moves slowly, showcasing photos and information about various outdoor events held on Tianmen Mountain, adding to the experience. Refueling at the food court: Upon reaching the summit, turn left to find the food court. Here, you can enjoy various snacks and recharge for the rest of your journey. Summit Exploration Guide Due to the rainy season and some canceled transport, my trip was a bit rushed, but I'll share the plan I made: Choosing between the East and West routes: After resting, you can choose between the East and West routes. Both offer unique scenery. If you have limited time or energy, the West route is recommended for its more spectacular views. Both routes feature glass walkways, offering thrilling views of the abyss below. Volunteers provide commentary along the way, enhancing your understanding of Tianmen Mountain. Descending by cable car: The cable car down is located near Li Na Villa. Plan your time wisely to avoid peak hours. I descended early in the morning during the rain and only waited about 20 minutes. The initial descent is steep and exhilarating, with stunning views of Tianmen Mountain. Nearby Food Recommendations Sanxia Guo: This traditional Zhangjiajie dish combines three ingredients, resulting in a rich and flavorful experience. Fu Zhengyi Sanxia Guo: A popular local restaurant known for its fresh ingredients and authentic Sanxia Guo. Cao Mao Mian: Enjoy chewy noodles in a rich broth, topped with unique toppings. I recommend a small, old restaurant tucked away in an alley for the most authentic flavor. Even though it poured rain during my climb, and I was drenched in sweat and rain, the dreamlike sea of clouds made the trip worthwhile. I hope this guide helps you have a wonderful Tianmen Mountain experience!