The world’s tallest outdoor elevator world’s tallest outdoor elevator ascends in just 1.5 minutes. (Image: Getty)
The scenic and historical site of Wulingyuan in South Central Hunan Province boasts over 3,000 sandstone pillars and peaks, many over 200 metres in height, along with many ravines and gorges with picturesque streams, pools, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.
Declared a in 1992, it features 40 caves, many with large calcite deposits and a natural bridge named Tianqiashengkong (“bridge across the sky”) – one of the highest natural bridges in the world.
However, in order to ascend the picturesque Avatar Hallelujah Mountain – made famous by the movie – a two-hour hike was involved, putting many off from taking in the breathtaking views from the summit.
To solve this problem and encourage more visitors, a glass double-deck elevator was in October 1999, built onto the side of a cliff at an incredible height of 326 metres. It was built at an eyewatering cost of CNY 180 million, or £20 million.
The Bailong Elevator, also known as the Hundred Dragons Elevator, is a marvel of modern engineering and a must-visit attraction in this region of China.
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This ride is not for the faint-hearted, however, and certainly not for those with a fear of heights. (Image: Getty)
The lower 153 metres were embedded inside the mountain wall, as well as 172 metres of steel derrick against the mountains in the upper section. It opened to the public in 2002.
During the ride, passengers can appreciate The Gathering of Heavenly Soldiers, one of the best sites in Zhangjiajie, and Gardens in Air, local residents’ cottages scattered on the top of the opposite mountains.
This ride is not for the faint-hearted, however, and certainly not for those with a fear of heights.
After an upgrade in 2015, the elevator now ascends its height in just one minute and 32 seconds, at a speed of about three metres per second.
It was subsequently recognised by Guinness as the world’s tallest outdoor elevator on 16 July 2015 and is claimed to be the fastest passenger elevator with the largest loading capacity.
With three double-decker fully exposed sightseeing elevators, each can bear up to 64 people. When all three are in use at the same time, Bailong Elevator can serve 6,000 tourists per hour.
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The world’s tallest outdoor elevator. Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie, China.
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A large number of the tourists who have braved this ride have taken to Tripadvisor to share their experiences.
“If you are able get to the front of the line to ensure a spot right up against the glass. The elevator is a double decker style so don’t fret too much,” wrote one reviewer.
“The first few seconds you don’t see much as you are encased in the concrete foundation. But soon you are thrust into a magnificent view of the surrounding area. Don’t blink because the elevator is fast; you are at the top lickety split.”
Another wrote: “We came late November so there was no lines to enter the lift. The whole ride does not take long however I did think it was worth it. It is breathtaking when you see the view from the lift. I enjoyed it. The ticket was 72 per person.”
A third added: “The fastest way to get down from mountain top offering you a never before experience and scenic view. Make sure you get your video recorder ready before entering.”