Why the Wulingyuan
ancient building comples
and 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.

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Wulingyuan
scenic area
tips & insights

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Creation

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

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More than just rock formations

Wulingyuan has many interesting activities besides seeing 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

Visiting the ethnic Tujia villages

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Tourism

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.

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When to come

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.

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Name

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.

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Nearest major city

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

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Pronunciation guide

Wulingyuan:  will'ng-you'ahn

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