How to Get from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie 2025/2026

Chongqing and Zhangjiajie are two captivating destinations in China, each offering unique and unforgettable travel experiences. Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City," dazzles visitors with its dramatic skyline, rich cultural heritage, and spicy Sichuan cuisine. The city's vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and scenic spots along the Yangtze River create a dynamic and diverse urban adventure. In contrast, Zhangjiajie, famous for its stunning natural landscapes, mesmerizes tourists with its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and the ethereal beauty of the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Combining these two destinations into a single travel itinerary promises an unparalleled blend of urban excitement and natural wonder.

For travelers planning to journey from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie, several transportation options are available, ensuring accessibility to this natural wonderland. Travelers can take a direct flight from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie or hop on a train for a scenic journey, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip. Please check out detailed information down below.

Transportation Map of Chongqing to Zhangjiajie

Chongqing to Zhangjiajie Flights

Direct flights are available from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie. Currently, there is one flight per day, operated by China Express Airlines. The flight schedule varies, but it typically departs around 07:00 or 8:00 in the morning. The flight duration between the two cities is approximately 1 hour.

Please note that other options like Xiamen Airlines, Shandong Airlines, and Air China are also actually operated by China Express Airlines. The flight uses a small aircraft, which may have some limitations in terms of space and seat comfort. Meals are not provided. The free checked baggage allowance is 10kg.

PS. The flight info is for reference only. Please confirm the actual flight schedules in case of any change.

⋙ More Details: Chongqing to Zhangjiajie Flight Schedules

Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport Services & Transportation

Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (IATA: DYG) is situated in the Yongding District of Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province. Serving as the sole international airport in the Wulingshan area, it plays a crucial role in advancing the tourism industry of Hunan Province.

On April 23, 2024, Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport inaugurated its Foreign Guest Payment Service Center, located within the international arrival hall. This center offers a diverse range of payment services tailored to international travelers, concerning cash payment, card payment and QR code payments. It also facilitates exchanges for six major foreign currencies, including USD, KRW, JPY, GBP, EUR, and HKD. The center boasts a professional team to provide travelers with immediate guidance and assistance. In the future, the airport aims to deepen its partnership with financial institutions, striving to develop an international tourism airport that complements top-tier global destinations.

Payment Service Center at Zhangjiajie Airport

In terms of transportation, Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport provides convenient and efficient services such as airport buses, regular buses, and taxis. The airport bus departs within 40 minutes after each flight lands and is free for passengers with a valid boarding pass or ticket for that flight. Stops include the Post Office Building and Zhangjiajie International Hotel. At the airport exit, Traffic Information Boards display bus routes to downtown and price references for taxis to various major attractions, making it easy for travelers to find transportation options.

⋙ More Details: Zhangjiajie Airport to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

3 Days Classic Zhangjiajie Natural Wonders Tour (National Park + Tianmen Mountain)

Itinerary: Zhangjiajie
Highlights: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain, Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, Tianmen Cave

Chongqing to Zhangjiajie Trains

When planning a trip from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie, you'll be pleased to know that there are several direct trains available. If you prioritize the speed and comfort of high-speed trains, there are options to meet your needs and preferences.

Option 1. Direct Normal Trains (Most Convenient & Budget-Friendly)

From Chongqing to Zhangjiajie, there are a few daily direct normal trains available. The earliest train departs around 08:30, and the latest around 12:30, all arriving on the same day. Travel times range from approximately 6 to 6.5 hours.

Although normal trains cannot match high-speed trains in terms of speed, the travel time for direct trains is actually similar to that of high-speed train transfers. With the most comfortable class—soft sleeper—costing less than ¥200, direct normal trains are indeed the most convenient and cost-effective option for traveling from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie.

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Option 2. Normal Train Transfer Via Wulong (1~2 Days in Wulong)

Wulong District in Chongqing is a must-see destination, renowned for its otherworldly Karst formations that have even been featured in the Hollywood film Transformers It serves as an ideal stopover en route to Zhangjiajie. Nestled between Chongqing and Zhangjiajie, Wulong District is approximately 170 kilometers (a 2 to 2.5-hour drive) east of downtown Chongqing and 360 kilometers (a 4.5 to 5.5-hour drive) west of downtown Zhangjiajie. At present, there are 3 regular train services from Wulong Railway Station to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station, with each trip taking between 4 to 4.5 hours.

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6 Days Chongqing Zhangjiajie Surreal Adventure with Wulong Karst

Itinerary: Chongqing / Wulong / Zhangjiajie
Highlights: Hongya Cave, Three Gorges Museum, E'ling Park, Liziba Station, Wulong Karst Geological Park, Furong Cave, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, etc.

Option 3. High-Speed Trains (Transfer via Huaihua)

If you prefer traveling by high-speed train, you can change trains in Huaihua on your way from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie. Departures are available from around 08:00 to approximately 15:00, offering flexibility. The total travel time ranges from around 6.5 to 7 hours. The entire journey in second class costs approximately ¥450.

Transfer info is as follows:

Note: The transfer info is for reference only. Please confirm the actual train schedules in case of any change.

⋙ More Details: Huaihua to Zhangjiajie Train Schedules

From Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station to Downtown and Major Attractions

▶ To Wulingyuan District (National Forest Park & Grand Canyon): Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station is approximately 50km from Wulingyuan scenic area. Coming out of the station, you'll find the intercity bus terminal on your right. From there, you can take a coach to Wulingyuan (武陵源)/National Forest Park and the Grand Canyon (大峡谷). Note that coaches to Wulingyuan stop operating early evening. For late-night arrivals needing accommodation near the National Forest Park, taxis are available from the B1 parking lot at Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station.

▶ To Zhangjiajie Downtown (Tianmen Mountain): Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station is approximately 10km from downtown. After exiting the station, simply turn left and walk to the bus stop. You can take bus 4 or 17 to Wuling Delicious Restaurant Stop (武陵山珍馆), which is conveniently located near the Tianmen Mountain Cableway Station.

▶ To Furong & Fenghuang Ancient Towns: Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station operates multiple high-speed trains daily to Furong Ancient Town and Fenghuang Ancient Town, offering fast and comfortable travel options for travelers to choose from. The journey to Furongzhen Station takes about 25 minutes, while to Fenghuanggucheng Station it takes approximately 1 hour.

⋙ More Details: Zhangjiajie Railway Station to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
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5 Days Amazing Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang Ancient Town Tour

Itinerary: Zhangjiajie / Fenghuang / Zhangjiajie
Highlights: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie, Tianmen Mountain, Fenghuang Ancient Town

How to Plan a Chongqing–Zhangjiajie Tour

Planning a tour from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie unveils a diverse adventure through scenic landscapes and cultural discoveries in China. From the vibrant cityscape of Chongqing to the breathtaking natural beauty of Zhangjiajie, this tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with enriching experiences.

How to Plan a Chongqing Tour

Planning a tour of Chongqing offers a delightful immersion into a city celebrated for its spicy cuisine, bustling markets, and breathtaking mountainous landscapes. Most downtown highlights are conveniently close, making it ideal for tourists who typically spend 1~2 days exploring these must-see attractions.

Begin your journey at the Three Gorges Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Experience the lively charm of Hongya Cave, a collection of traditional-style buildings nestled on a hillside overlooking the Yangtze River. Make sure to visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, renowned for its centuries-old Chinese architecture, historical artifacts, and delectable local snacks. Don't miss the impressive Chongqing Zoo and the giant pandas it houses, a delight for animal lovers. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along Nanbin Road, offering picturesque views of the illuminated Yangtze River and the city skyline at night. If time allows, consider extending your stay by 1 to 2 days to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Dazu Rock Carvings and Wulong Karst Geopark in Chongqing's suburban areas.

In essence, a tour of Chongqing promises a blend of cultural exploration, culinary adventures, and natural wonders that will enchant every traveler.

Hongya Cave Night View Three Gorges Museum

☛ 4 Days Chongqing Essence Tour with Yangtze River Cruise
☛ 2 Days Chongqing & Wulong Karst Landscape Exploration Tour
☛ 7 Days Nature Tour to Yangtze River & Zhangjiajie

How to Plan a Zhangjiajie Tour

Zhangjiajie, a destination renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, is best explored over a span of 3~4 days. In Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, visitors can immerse themselves in the ethereal beauty of the “Avatar Mountains,” and marvel at the stunning vistas of Tianzi Mountain, Huangshi Village, and Golden Whip Stream, where a picturesque stream winds through lush greenery. The adventure continues with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, offering panoramic views, and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, home to the world’s largest and highest glass bridge. These natural wonders, with their seas of clouds, mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets, and atmospheric mists and fogs, create a paradise-like experience.

To further enrich the journey, many travelers extend their trip to include the nearby Furong Ancient Town and Fenghuang Ancient Town. These old towns offer a glimpse into the unique culture of the western Hunan ethnic minority, with their characteristic antique wooden stilt houses and serene river views, adding a cultural dimension to the natural splendor of Zhangjiajie.

☛ 5 Days Zhangjiajie Ultimate Tour with Glass Bridge & Tianmen Mountain
☛ 4 Days Zhangjiajie Highlights Tour with Fantastic Hiking Experience
☛ 5 Days Fantastic Zhangjiajie Tour with Side trip to Furong Ancient Town

Hallelujah Mountain at Yuanjiajie Fenghuang Ancient Town

Travel Zhangjiajie with China Discovery

To help you enjoy a worry-free trip to Zhangjiajie and the whole China, we suggest you travel with China Discovery. Our experienced travel expert will help you arrange the transportation and everything well to let you spend all your effort and time on the sightseeing. If you have any other ideas or questions about your Zhangjiajie tour, please feel free to contact us. We are specialized in tailor-made tours that fit you best according to your own interests, requirement, traveling time, etc.