The best months to visit Zhangjiajie are April–May (vibrant spring landscapes) and September–October (crisp autumn weather), avoiding the rainy season. For core scenic areas like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, allow 3–4 days for in-depth exploration of Yuanjiajie, Golden Whip Stream, and Tianzi Mountain. Including nearby attractions like Tianmen Mountain extends the trip to 4–5 days, balancing natural wonders with relaxed exploration.