Duku Highway

1. Core Positioning: The Hardcore Strength of China's Most Beautiful Highway Duku Highway (National Highway 217, Dushanzi to Kuqa section) stretches 561 kilometers across the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, becoming the top choice for self-driving enthusiasts. It is not only a vital transportation route connecting Dushanzi District of Karamay City in northern Xinjiang with Kuqa City in Aksu Prefecture of southern Xinjiang, but also renowned for its three major features: an altitude span of over 2,000 meters, diverse landforms, and rich history. It has been praised by "Chinese National Geography" as the "Scenic Avenue Running Along the Backbone of the Tianshan Mountains." The marvel of "four seasons in one day, different weather every ten miles" here has captivated countless travelers. 2. Scenic Highlights: A Visual Feast at Every Step 1. Northern Section (Dushanzi - Qiaolma): A Coexistence of Steepness and Grandeur Dushanzi Grand Canyon: A 200-meter-deep valley formed by billions of years of wind erosion, with ravines carved like by knives and axes. From a drone’s perspective, the river at the valley bottom and the cliffside road create a stunning "earth fissure" scene. Hashilegendaban Pass: At 3,390 meters elevation, this snow-capped mountain pass features the world’s only snow-proof long corridor to prevent avalanches. In summer, visitors can experience the wonder of "snow flying in June." Qiaolma Martyrs' Cemetery: 168 tombstones stand silently, with an inscription on the monument reading "Comrades who sacrificed their lives for the Duku Highway project will live forever," where self-drivers pay tribute to heroes. 2. Middle Section (Qiaolma - Bayinbuluke): A Poetic Scroll of Grasslands and Lakes Nalati Grassland: One of the world’s four major alpine grasslands, where snowy ridges and spruce trees blend with Kazakh yurts. From June to August, wildflowers bloom everywhere, resembling scenes from a Hayao Miyazaki animation. Bayinbuluke Grassland: China’s second-largest grassland, where the Kaidu River forms "nine bends and eighteen turns." At sunset, you can capture the rare sight of "nine suns" reflected on the river surface. 3. Southern Section (Bayinbuluke - Kuqa): The Rugged Beauty of Deserts and Canyons Big and Small Dragon Pools: Two sapphires deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with emerald-green waters reflecting surrounding snow peaks. Legend says these are the bathing pools of the Queen Mother of the West. Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon: Red-brown rock walls shaped by billions of years of wind erosion. When sunlight penetrates the canyon, the walls look like burning flames. It is rated by "Chinese National Geography" as one of "China’s Top Ten Most Beautiful Canyons." 3. Self-Driving Experience: A Mix of Challenge and Surprise 1. Driving Difficulty Sharp turns and steep slopes: A 280-kilometer stretch with elevations over 2,000 meters. The northern "Tiger’s Mouth" section runs along cliffs and requires strict speed control. Complex road conditions: Some sections have rockfall risks. Special structures like snow-proof corridors and tunnels require attention to traffic notices. Vehicle recommendations: SUVs with engine displacement above 1.5L are recommended. Novice drivers are advised to travel in groups and prepare anti-skid chains and emergency tools. 2. Seasonal Restrictions Open period: Early June to mid-October each year (closed on October 10, 2025, and will reopen in June 2026). Best time: July to August for grassland flowers, September for colorful autumn, but be alert for sudden snow or heavy rain causing mudslides. 3. Supplies and Accommodation Main stops: Qiaolma (monument, restaurants), Nalati Town (concentrated homestays), Bayinbuluke Town (hotels), Kuqa City (end point). Booking tips: Accommodation is tight during peak season; booking one month in advance is recommended. Staying in Bayinbuluke Kazakh yurts offers an authentic cultural experience (about 100-200 RMB per night per person). 4. Culture and History: The Spiritual Totem Behind the Road Epic of Road Construction: In 1974, tens of thousands of soldiers worked in extreme cold of minus 40°C, using ropes to hang and explosives to blast mountains, completing this "lifeline" in 10 years. 168 soldiers sacrificed their lives. Kucha Culture: The endpoint Kuqa City is the ancient site of the Kingdom of Kucha. The murals of the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves and the domes of Kuqa Grand Mosque tell the glory of Western Region civilization. Folk Customs: Along the way, visitors can experience Kazakh nomadic homes, taste hand-pulled meat and horse milk wine, and watch the "Girl Chase" horseback performance.