The Duku Highway (Dushanzi - Kuche Highway) is hailed as "the most beautiful highway in Xinjiang" and is a monument in the history of highway construction in China. It runs through the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, with a total length of approximately 561 kilometers. Along the way, it features magnificent landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands and lakes, and is hailed as an absolutely beautiful self-driving route that offers "four seasons in one day, different weather every ten miles".
Highlights of the Duku Highway
Geographical wonder
Crossing the Tianshan Mountains, connecting northern Xinjiang and southern Xinjiang, with a large altitude difference, you can experience the changing scenery of the four seasons along the way.
Passing through the Hashilegen Pass (3,400 meters above sea level), snow can still be seen in summer, making it suitable for short skiing.
Core scenic spots
Dushanzi Grand Canyon: The starting point of the road, the perilous canyon terrain is like an alien landscape.
Qiaolma Martyr Cemetery: Commemorating the 168 soldiers who sacrificed their lives while building the road, and offering an opportunity to learn about the history of road construction.
Nalati Grassland: One of the world's four major grasslands, it is covered with lush green grass and herds of cattle and sheep in summer.
Bayanbulak Grassland: The second largest grassland in China, the sunset with its nine twists and eighteen turns is a breathtaking sight.
The Mysterious Kuche Canyon of Tianshan Mountain: The reddish-brown mountains interweave with light and shadow, resembling the surface of Mars.
Limited-time opening: Open to traffic only from June to October each year (the exact time may be adjusted according to the weather), and closed in winter.Best time: July - August (green grassland, pleasant climate), September - October (splendid autumn scenery)
Notes:
Altitude sickness: Some sections of the road are at a relatively high altitude. Avoid strenuous exercise.
Large temperature difference: Prepare windproof jackets and sun protection products.
Few supply points: Fill up your fuel in advance, bring enough food and water.
Why is the Duku Highway unique?
The road construction was arduous: It took 10 years to build, with an average of one soldier sacrificed every 3 kilometers. It was a "heroic road".
The landscape density is extremely high: within just one day, one can experience various landforms such as deserts, snow-capped mountains, forests, and wetlands
