Zhangjiajie Travel Guide for Muslim Travellers: Explore Avatar’s Real-Life Mountains

If you’ve ever watched Avatar and thought, “No way a place this beautiful exists in real life,”—surprise! It totally does. Welcome to Zhangjiajie, a jaw-dropping natural wonder tucked away in the Hunan Province of China. With towering sandstone pillars, lush greenery, and misty mountain views, it’s easy to see how this place inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s cinematic masterpiece.

And here’s the best part: Zhangjiajie isn’t just a dream for nature lovers and photographers—it’s also a destination Muslim travellers can enjoy comfortably with a bit of planning.

Also read: 7D6N Guangzhou Itinerary: A Guide to Exploring Culture, Cuisine, & More For Muslim Travellers

Why Zhangjiajie should be on your Muslim-friendly travel bucket list?

Let’s be real: Muslim-friendly destinations in East Asia can feel like a hit-or-miss sometimes. But Zhangjiajie is one of those underrated gems where nature, culture, and accessibility beautifully collide.

From its surreal landscapes to its peaceful atmosphere, Zhangjiajie offers that soul-soothing kind of travel experience. Whether you're hiking the iconic Avatar Hallelujah Mountain or walking across the world's longest glass bridge (yes, it's that one from TikTok), every moment feels like you're in a fantasy world.

Must-visit attractions in Zhangjiajie

Here’s what you can’t miss when you're there:

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

This is where the magic happens. The sandstone pillars here are the actual inspiration behind the floating mountains in Avatar. Ride the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, and get insane views without the leg workout.

2. Tianmen Mountain

Famous for its “Heaven’s Gate” natural arch and the terrifying but Insta-worthy glass skywalk, this place offers spiritual vibes and panoramic views you won’t forget.

3. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon & Glass Bridge

Hold your breath and walk across the world’s longest and highest glass-bottom bridge—it’s not for the faint-hearted, but the views are chef’s kiss.

Muslim-friendly tips for visiting Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie may not be as heavily populated with halal signs as Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta, but don’t worry—it’s still doable for Muslim travellers.

1. Halal Food Options

There are several halal-friendly spots in the city, especially around Yongding District, where you’ll find small local restaurants run by members of China’s Hui Muslim minority. Look out for the Arabic signs or phrases like "清真" (Qingzhen), which means halal.

You can also bring halal snacks or cup noodles if you're unsure about local ingredients—hot water is widely available in hotels and public areas.

2. Prayer spaces

While mosques are limited in Zhangjiajie, there are a few prayer spaces available in Muslim-owned restaurants if you ask politely. Also, many accommodations will allow you to pray in your room—just bring a travel prayer mat and use a Qibla app to stay oriented.

3. Pro tip:

Download translation apps like Pleco or Google Translate with Chinese offline language packs to make communicating your dietary and prayer needs easier.

4. Where to Stay

Look for accommodations in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area if you want to be close to the main attractions. Some Muslim-friendly hotels or guesthouses can offer meal flexibility if you ask in advance.

Zhangjiajie is relatively affordable compared to more touristy Chinese destinations, so it’s easy to find decent places that won’t break the bank.

Also read: 8 Halal Food Options You Won’t Regret in Harbin, China: 5-Star Reviews, No Fluff

Final thoughts

Zhangjiajie is the kind of place that stays with you—its beauty, its calm, and its almost otherworldly charm. For Muslim travellers, it might take a little extra planning, but the payoff is 100% worth it.

Whether you're chasing that Avatar fantasy, craving a digital detox in nature, or just want a destination that blends adventure with tranquillity, Zhangjiajie deserves a top spot on your bucket list.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your prayer mat, pack your halal snacks, and let Zhangjiajie blow your mind.
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Images credit: Ulyssesdiscoverychina | Official Facebook