Shennonggu National Forest Park is located in the northeast of Yanling County, Zhuzhou City, Hunan Province. As a national nature reserve, national forest park, and national 4A-level tourist attraction, it is known as "The Green Pearl of Hunan" and "Natural Oxygen Bar".
Overview
Geographical Features
Covers a total area of 100 square kilometers, with the highest elevation at 1,834 meters and forest coverage rate up to 98.75%.
The annual average temperature is 14.4℃, with summer temperatures around 20℃, making it an ideal summer retreat.
Name Origin
Legend says Emperor Yan (Shennong) once gathered herbs here, leaving behind the tale of "Shennong Tasting Hundreds of Herbs", hence the name.
Approved as a national nature reserve by the State Council in 2002.
Natural Landscapes
Four Major Features
- Primeval Forest: Well-preserved central subtropical virgin secondary forest
- Waterfall Groups: Over 200 waterfalls of various sizes with magnificent momentum
- Streams and Canyons: Crystal clear streams and deep, beautiful canyons
- Unique Peaks and Rocks: Various shaped peaks and rock formations
Main Attractions
- Shennong Flying Waterfall: 235-meter drop, the highest waterfall in Hunan
- Black Dragon Pool: Deep, unfathomable pool
- Tree Embracing Rock: Unique landscape of trees wrapping around rocks
- Shennonggu Grand Canyon: 7.5-kilometer-long pristine canyon
Ecological Resources
Plant Resources
Home to 2,019 species of higher plants, including 74 species of nationally protected wild plants.
Rare species include southern yew, ginkgo, and dove tree.
Animal Resources
Hosts 308 species of vertebrates, including 46 species of nationally protected wild animals.
Rare animals include clouded leopard, yellow-bellied tragopan, and giant salamander.
Tourism Experience
Special Activities
- Forest Hiking: Multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty
- Stream Trekking: Cool and exciting summer water activity
- Bird Watching and Photography: Abundant bird species attract photographers
- Stargazing Camping: Excellent spot for night sky observation
Best Seasons
- Spring (Apr-May): Blooming mountain flowers and vibrant life
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Ideal summer retreat with spectacular waterfalls
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): Colorful foliage covering the mountains
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Snow-covered landscape and frozen waterfalls
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open year-round. Best visiting season: April to November
Daily opening hours: 07:30-17:30 (last entry at 16:30)
Ticket Prices
- Peak season (Apr-Nov): 108 CNY/person
- Off season (Dec-Mar): 80 CNY/person
- Sightseeing bus: 50 CNY/person (optional)
Transportation
- Self-driving: About 3.5 hours from Changsha
- Public transport: Take tourist shuttle buses from Zhuzhou or Yanling County
- High-speed rail: Take train to Hengyang East Station, then transfer by bus (about 2 hours)
Notes
Mountain weather changes frequently - bring rain gear and warm clothing.
Protect the ecological environment - no picking plants or catching animals.
Some areas have weak signal - recommended to travel in groups.