The Duku Highway, stretching 561 kilometers from Dushanzi in the north to Kuqa in the south, is one of China’s most breathtaking road trip routes, often called a “Heavenly Road” for its awe-inspiring landscapes. Traversing the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, this scenic highway connects northern and southern Xinjiang, offering travelers a journey through snow-capped peaks, lush grasslands, deep canyons, and vibrant ethnic communities. Known for its dramatic altitude changes and the experience of “four seasons in one day,” the Duku Highway is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable road trip.
A Travel Guide to Duku Highway
Why Visit Duku Highway?
The Duku Highway, part of National Highway 217, is celebrated for its diverse and dramatic scenery, earning accolades from China National Geographic as a monumental achievement in highway construction. Completed in 1983 after a decade of arduous work, it shortened the distance between northern and southern Xinjiang by nearly half, but its true allure lies in its visual splendor. From glaciers and forests to wetlands and deserts, the route showcases Xinjiang’s raw beauty. Highlights include the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Narat Grassland, Bayinbuluke Grassland, and Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon. The highway’s cultural significance, connecting ethnic minority settlements, and its heroic history—168 soldiers lost their lives during construction—add depth to the journey.
How to Get There
The Duku Highway starts in Dushanzi District (Karamay City, northern Xinjiang) and ends in Kuqa City (Aksu Prefecture, southern Xinjiang). Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital, is the most convenient hub for accessing the route.
By Air: Fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport from major Chinese cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu; 3–5 hours, ¥500–2000). From Urumqi, Dushanzi is a 3-hour drive (300 km) via G30 Expressway. Alternatively, fly to Kuqa Qiuci Airport for the southern end (flights from Urumqi, ~1 hour, ¥300–800).
By Train: Take a high-speed train to Urumqi Railway Station from cities like Lanzhou or Xi’an (10–20 hours, ¥300–1000). From Urumqi, rent a car or join a tour to Dushanzi. Kuqa is accessible by train from Urumqi (6–8 hours, ¥100–300).
By Car or Tour: Rent a car in Urumqi or Kuqa for a self-drive adventure. Companies like Shenzhou Car Rental are reliable but may require a Chinese driver’s license or a local contact for foreigners. Expect costs of ¥300–600/day. Join a guided tour with agencies like China Silk Road Travel or Xinjiang Travel Agency for hassle-free logistics, including permits and English-speaking guides (¥5000–10000 for multi-day tours).
Note: The highway is restricted to vehicles with 7 seats or fewer, and multiple checkpoints require passports, visas, and travel permits. Ensure all documents are ready.
Best Time to Visit
Open Season: The Duku Highway is open from June to October (sometimes May to September, depending on weather), as heavy snow and ice close it for up to 8 months annually. The 2024 season began early on June 1.
Peak Months: July and August offer the best weather, with blooming wildflowers, green grasslands, and clear views of snow-capped peaks. June and September are less crowded but may have cooler temperatures.
Avoid: Peak holiday periods like National Day (early October) to avoid traffic jams and crowds.
Weather Tip: Expect significant temperature swings (0°C–30°C) due to altitudes ranging from 2000m to 3500m. Pack layers, including warm jackets and rain gear.
Tickets and Costs
Entry: The highway itself is free to drive, but attractions along the route may charge admission (e.g., Bayinbuluke Grassland: ¥65, Tianshan Grand Canyon: ¥60).
Permits: A Xinjiang Travel Permit is required for certain areas like Bayinbuluke and must be arranged 4 months in advance through a travel agency.
Car Rental and Fuel: Budget ¥300–600/day for car rental and ¥500–800 for fuel for the full 561 km. Guided tours cost ¥500–1000/day per person, including transport and meals.
Tip: Book accommodations and tours early via platforms like Trip.com or Feizhu for deals, especially during peak season.
What to See and Do
The Duku Highway is a journey of ever-changing landscapes, with key stops that showcase Xinjiang’s diversity. A full trip takes 1–2 days, though 3–5 days allow for deeper exploration. Here’s a suggested itinerary from north (Dushanzi) to south (Kuqa):
Dushanzi Grand Canyon: Located 28 km south of Dushanzi, this dramatic canyon features gurgling streams and terraced cliffs, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Nearby, the Dushanzi Mud Volcano Scenic Area showcases rare erupting mud volcanoes.
Narat Grassland: A lush alpine meadow with rolling hills and Kazakh nomadic culture. Explore yurts, hike trails, or ride horses (¥100–200/hour). The nearby Guozigou Valley offers scenic views of the Guozigou Bridge.
Bayinbuluke Grassland: China’s second-largest grassland, 200 km northwest of Korla, is a highlight. Visit Swan Lake, a swan sanctuary, and catch the iconic “Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns” sunset view. Special permits are required.
Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon (Kuqa): Near Kuqa, this geological wonder features red cliffs, karst formations, and serene trails. Combine with a visit to Qiuci Alley in Kuqa for Uighur culture and bazaars.
Other Notable Stops: Dalongchi and Xiaolongchi Lakes: Alpine lakes with crystal waters, ideal for photography. Anjihai Grand Canyon: A colorful, abstract-like landscape formed by river erosion. Yardang and Karst Landforms: Unique geological formations near Kuqa, including the Red Dan Stone Forest.
Activities: Self-Driving: The ultimate way to experience the highway’s curves and vistas. Drive cautiously due to steep cliffs and sharp turns. Photography: Capture snow mountains, grasslands, and sunsets. Drones are popular but may require permits. Cultural Immersion: Interact with Kazakh and Uighur communities, sample local foods like lamb skewers and naan, and visit markets in Kuqa.
Where to Eat
On the Road: Rest areas offer basic eateries serving Xinjiang specialties like laghman noodles, pilaf, and roast lamb (¥20–50). Bayinbuluke has restaurants near Swan Lake.
In Dushanzi and Kuqa: Dushanzi’s night markets and Kuqa’s Qiuci Alley offer authentic Uighur cuisine, including dapanji (big plate chicken) and fresh fruits like pomegranates (¥30–100/meal).
Tip: Pack snacks and water, as dining options are sparse in remote sections.
Where to Stay
Dushanzi: Budget hotels like Kuitun Hotel (¥150–300/night) or mid-range options like Jinjiang Inn (¥300–500/night).
Bayinbuluke: Stay in yurts for a nomadic experience (¥200–400/night, basic facilities) or guesthouses (¥150–300/night).
Kuqa: Comfortable options like Kuqa Grand Hotel (¥300–600/night) or boutique hotels in the city center.
Urumqi (Base): Luxury hotels like Sheraton Urumqi (¥600–1000/night) or budget hostels (¥100–200/night) for pre- or post-trip stays.
Booking: Use Ctrip or Booking.com and reserve early, as accommodations fill up quickly in summer.
Tips for a Great Visit
Drive Safely: The highway has steep cliffs, sharp turns, and mudslide risks. Honk at blind corners and avoid speeding. Carry a spare tire and emergency kit.
Prepare Documents: Have your passport, visa, and Xinjiang permits ready for frequent checkpoints.
Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and layered clothing for unpredictable weather. Oxygen bags may help at high altitudes (3500m max).
Respect Nature: Stick to designated routes to protect fragile ecosystems like Bayinbuluke’s wetlands.
Combine Your Trip: Extend your journey to nearby attractions like Kanas Lake, Sayram Lake, or Kashgar along the Silk Road.
Final Thoughts
The Duku Highway is more than a road—it’s a journey through Xinjiang’s heart, where every mile reveals a new facet of nature’s grandeur and cultural richness. From the rugged beauty of the Tianshan Mountains to the serene expanses of Bayinbuluke, this route offers an adventure that blends challenge and wonder. Plan ahead, drive with care, and let the “Hero’s Path” leave you with memories of a lifetime.
Happy travels!
