Tianmen Mountain
Zhangjiajie
Tianmen Mountain is a separate park from the Forest Park — its ticket bundles the cable car, shuttle, and mountain route, but you choose between 3 route options.
Last verified: 2026-08-21
Why choosing is confusing
Tianmen Mountain (天门山) is near Zhangjiajie city center — a different park from the National Forest Park with its own ticket. The standard ticket (¥285) includes the main cable car ride (world's longest at 7,455 m), the mountain-top eco-bus (99-bend road), and the mountain escalator down through Tianmen Cave. You choose between 3 route options (A, B, C) that determine the direction of travel. Extra costs: glass walkway shoe covers (¥5) and the Tianmen Cave escalator (¥32, avoids climbing 999 steps).
Local guide's shortcut
For most first-time visitors
Buy Route A (¥285) — this is chosen by ~90% of visitors and gives the most complete experience. Take the main cable car up, the 99-bend road to Tianmen Cave, explore the mountain-top walkways (including the glass walkway), then descend via the mountain escalator and express cable car. Book 3–5 days ahead in peak season.
Choose by Travel Style
Which ticket fits you?
Guide first, booking second. The final product names and inclusions can be connected to the existing ticket inventory.
Route A — Main Cable Car Up, Express Cable Car Down
Best for most first-time visitors — the most complete and popular route
What this combination includes
- ✓Main cable car up from city (28 min, world's longest passenger cable car)
- ✓Mountain-top eco-bus through the 99-bend road to Tianmen Cave
- ✓Access to all mountain-top walkways: glass walkway, Guigu Cliff walkway
- ✓Mountain escalator down through the cave (7 sections)
- ✓Express cable car down from cave to city
- ✓Glass walkway shoe covers (¥5, included)
What's not included
- Tianmen Cave escalator (¥32 extra — avoids climbing 999 steps)
- Food and drinks on the mountain (expensive, bring snacks)
Main trade-off
The most popular route for good reason. You get the full cable car experience up and all the mountain highlights. The only extra decision is whether to pay ¥32 for the escalator through the cave or climb the 999 steps.
¥285 (≈ US$40) + US$0.99 service fee
Book this optionRoute B — Express Cable Car Up, Main Cable Car Down
Best for fit visitors who want to climb the 999 steps to Tianmen Cave
What this combination includes
- ✓Express cable car up (shorter, faster)
- ✓Climb the 999 steps to Tianmen Cave (the famous "Stairway to Heaven")
- ✓Mountain-top walkways and cable car down
What's not included
- Main cable car ride up (you take it down instead)
- Tianmen Cave escalator (you climb the steps)
Main trade-off
You get the iconic 999-step climb experience. But it is physically demanding (1–1.5 hours of climbing). The mountain-top time is similar to Route A.
¥285 (≈ US$40) + US$0.99 service fee
Book this optionRoute C — Express Cable Car Both Ways
Best for seniors, those who want shorter lines, or limited time
What this combination includes
- ✓Express cable car up and down (shorter ride, fewer queues)
- ✓Mountain-top walkways
- ✓Shorter overall route
What's not included
- Main cable car experience (the world's longest ride)
- The 99-bend road and Tianmen Cave visit
Main trade-off
Shorter and less crowded, but you miss the main cable car (the highlight for many) and the Tianmen Cave. Best for those who prioritize comfort over completeness.
¥285 (≈ US$40) + US$0.99 service fee
Book this optionBefore you book
Booking & Reservations
- •Real-name booking with passport required. Book 3–5 days ahead in peak season (May–October).
- •Tickets release daily at 8:00 AM on the official "Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain" platform.
- •Choose your route (A/B/C) and time slot at booking — you cannot change route on the day.
- •Peak season weekends can sell out same-day. Always book ahead.
Weather & Closures
- •Glass walkway may close during strong wind or thunderstorms.
- •Mountain weather changes rapidly — bring a light jacket (8–10°C cooler at the top).
- •Sea of clouds is most likely the day after rain, early morning or evening.
Extra Costs to Expect
- •Glass walkway shoe covers: ¥5 (mandatory, uniform provided, personal shoe covers not accepted)
- •Tianmen Cave escalator: ¥32 (optional, saves climbing 999 steps — recommended for seniors and families)
- •Food on mountain: expensive, bring snacks and water
Children & Seniors
- •Children under 1.2 m: free (must be accompanied by adult)
- •Seniors 65+: free entry
- •Students and ages 60–64: half-price (¥149)
- •Route B (999 steps) not recommended for elderly, small children, or anyone with mobility issues
Ready to book?
We book your Route A/B/C ticket at regular price + US$0.99 service fee. Tell us your preferred route and travel date. In peak season, book at least 5 days ahead.
Still unsure? Ask a Local
Tell us your travel date, group size, and preferences — we'll recommend the best option for you.
💬 Chat with a Local ExpertFrequently asked questions
Which route should I choose?+
Route A for most visitors. It gives the full cable car experience up and all mountain highlights. Route B if you specifically want to climb the 999 steps. Route C for seniors or short visits.
Is the glass walkway scary?+
It is a glass floor on a cliff edge. If you have a fear of heights, you can walk on the inner path (solid floor) which runs parallel. The view from the glass section is spectacular but optional.
How early should I arrive?+
Arrive before 7 AM to avoid tour group peak (10 AM–2 PM). The first cable car typically departs around 7:30 AM.
Is this the same as the Forest Park?+
No. Tianmen Mountain is a separate attraction near the city. The Forest Park (Avatar mountains) is 40 min away in Wulingyuan. They need separate tickets and separate days.