Introducing Duku Highway
The Duku Highway, running from Dushanzi to Kuqa, is a 561-kilometer highway connecting southern and northern Xinjiang. Traversing towering mountains and traversing deep valleys, it connects numerous ethnic minority settlements. Its completion has shortened the distance between southern and northern Xinjiang by nearly half, from over 1,000 kilometers, making it a landmark achievement in China's highway construction history.
The Duku Highway, like a giant dragon coiling around the Tianshan Mountains, stretches across the southern end of the highway. Visitors will also discover the magnificent Keziliya Mountain Scenic Area, featuring towering red mountain stone forests. Furthermore, the nearby Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon Scenic Area equally captivates visitors with its winding and serene paths. The canyon also boasts the A'ai Grottoes, a Tang Dynasty Buddhist cave with exquisite murals, making it a renowned location for filming.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for travel from late spring to early autumn
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Duku Highway
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Duku Highway connects Yili Prefecture to Kanas and the Altay region in Xinjiang. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and serves as an important route for tourism and local trade, highlighting the region's alpine terrain and cultural diversity.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in northern Xinjiang, connecting Yining (Ghulja) and Kanas.
- Best accessed by car or organized tour bus; taxis or private drivers can be arranged.
- No metro service; some hiking sections require walking or short treks.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open year-round; road accessibility depends on weather, usually May–October.
- Best times: summer and early autumn (June–September) for snow-free roads and vibrant scenery.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- No general entrance fee for the highway itself; some scenic spots along the route may charge ¥20–¥50 per site.
- Tickets purchased on-site; some popular viewpoints allow online booking via local tourism platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is only recommended for specific scenic areas or accommodation; 1–3 days in advance is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
A full day to 2 days depending on stops, hikes, and photography sessions along the highway.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Mountain passes with panoramic views
- Glacial valleys and rivers
- Alpine meadows and wildflower fields
- Kazakh and Uyghur villages along the route
- Viewpoints such as Hongshan Pass and Naoma Lake sections
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available via local travel agencies, usually in Mandarin; English guides may be available on request for private tours.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- High mountain passes with snow-capped peaks
- Glacial rivers and waterfalls
- Alpine meadows during summer blooms
- Curving highway stretches for scenic driving shots
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start from Yining or north entrance, drive along Duku Highway with planned stops at major viewpoints, villages, and scenic spots, then reach Kanas or Altay, returning the same route or exploring side valleys.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits on the highway are not recommended due to safety; special cultural performances can be arranged in local villages during summer festivals.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Least crowded in early morning or weekdays; summer weekends and Chinese national holidays are peak times.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic rest stops and public toilets at major viewpoints
- Small local eateries and snack stands
- Some petrol stations provide water and basic food supplies
- Limited souvenir shops at popular stops
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Partially accessible; driving is easy, but hiking trails and some viewpoints can be steep and challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is preferred for small roadside shops; Alipay and WeChat payments may be accepted at larger rest areas or scenic spots.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local village restaurants serving Uyghur and Kazakh cuisine
- Snack stalls at major viewpoints
- Small cafes near Kanas or other tourist entrances
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Halal options widely available; vegetarian meals are limited but possible in village restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and hotels in Yining and Kanas
- Homestays in villages along the highway
- Mountain lodges at some scenic stops
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Kanas Lake and Valley
- Hemu Village
- Altay Mountains and surrounding alpine scenery
- Local Kazakh cultural villages
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handicrafts such as Kazakh felt products and textiles
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Small local artwork and carvings
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Private car or taxi to nearby cities or tourist spots
- Organized tour buses along the Duku Highway circuit
- Local buses connecting Yining, Kanas, and Altay regions
