This Year’s Best Group Tour Route for Duku Highway + How to Book Recommended Routes and Costs
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation
Explore the Duku Highway:2026 Full Guide to Group Tours✨
Detailed introduction to the route or destination
The Duku Highway, a scenic route stretching along the spine of the Tianshan Mountains, is hailed by travelers of all ethnicities as ‘China’s Most Beautiful Highway.’ Starting from Dushanzi District in Karamay City in the north and ending in Kuqa City in the Aksu region in the south, it spans 561 kilometers and connects a series of geological wonders including snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands, forests, lakes, Danxia landforms, Yardang landforms, and deserts. Traveling along this road, one can experience the changing of four seasons in a single day and witness different landscapes every ten kilometers, earning it the title of a ‘mobile classroom of geological museums.’
Core Highlights:
Geological Wonders:The snow walls of Hashilegen Daban, the primeval forests of Qiaoerma, the aerial grasslands of Nalati, the winding river of Bayanbulak, and the red rock formations of Kuqa Grand Canyon create a visual feast.
Epic Road Construction:The highway took ten years to build, with 168 soldiers resting eternally here. The Qiaoerma Martyrs Cemetery has become a significant landmark.
Ecological Corridor:Along the route are the Tianshan Snow Leopard Protection Zone and the Gongnaisi National Forest Park, offering high chances of encountering wildlife in their natural habitat.
Photography Paradise:Sections like the Guozigou Bridge, Tangbula Hundred-Li Gallery, and the Large and Small Dragon Pools provide perfect spots for capturing stunning photos.
Simple Itinerary (New 2026 Version)
Taking the ‘7-Day In-Depth Tour of the Duku Highway’ offered by Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency as an example, the itinerary balances classic attractions with off-the-beaten-path experiences, with daily arrangements as follows:
Day 1:Gathering in Urumqi
Morning:Private airport transfer and check-in at a four-star hotel.
Afternoon:Visit the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar to sample local specialties like baked buns and pilaf.
Evening:Pre-trip briefing, distribution of customized travel guides and emergency supply kits.
Explore the Duku Highway: 2026 Full Guide to Group Tours✨Day 2:Dushanzi → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge
Morning:Pass through the northern starting point of the Duku Highway and visit the glass walkway at Dushanzi Grand Canyon.
Noon:Lunch in Jinghe County, sampling cold-water fish dishes.
Afternoon:Cruise around Sayram Lake and visit the swan habitat by boat.
Evening:Photograph the sunset at Guozigou Bridge and check into a characteristic homestay in Huocheng County.
Day 3:Tangbula Grassland → Nalati Grassland
Morning:Explore the Tangbula Hundred-Li Gallery and visit Fairy Lake on horseback.
Noon:Picnic on the grassland and experience home visits with local families.
Afternoon:Tour the Nalati aerial grasslands and visit the popular single-log bridge.
Evening:Check into an eco-wooden cabin in Nalati Town and participate in a bonfire party.
Day 4:Nalati → Bayanbulak
Morning:Cross the Yuximolegai Daban and traverse the Tianshan Tunnel Group.
Noon:Lunch in Bayanbulak Town, sampling black-headed mutton.
Afternoon:Visit the winding river and wait for the ‘Nine Suns’ phenomenon.
Detailed introduction to the route or destinationEvening:Check into a scenic hotel within the reserve, with cold-weather gear provided.
Day 5:Bayanbulak → Large and Small Dragon Pools → Kuqa
Morning:Drive along the southern section of the Duku Highway, passing Tielimaiti Daban.
Noon:Picnic at the Large and Small Dragon Pools, photographing the reflection of snow-capped mountains in the turquoise lakes.
Afternoon:Visit the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves to learn about Western Region Buddhist art.
Evening:Check into a five-star hotel in Kuqa City and experience the Qiuci music and dance performance.
Day 6:Kuqa → Tianshan Grand Canyon → Return
Morning:Hike the Kuqa Grand Canyon and photograph the ‘One-Line Sky’ geological wonder.
Noon:Lunch at the Kuqa Giant Naan City and learn to make a 1-meter-diameter naan.
Afternoon:Airport transfer based on flight schedule or extend the trip to explore the Old Town of Kashgar.
Day 7:Alternative Extended Itinerary (to be confirmed in advance)
All day:In-depth tour of Kashgar Old Town, visiting the Id Kah Mosque, Xiangfei Garden, and sampling afternoon tea at a century-old teahouse.
Price Description (2026 Reference Range)
Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency offers multiple package options, with prices varying by season, vehicle type, and accommodation standard:
The Duku Highway, a scenic route stretching along the spine of the Tianshan Mountains, is hailed by travelers of all ethnicities as ‘China’s Most Beautiful Highway.’ Starting from Dushanzi District in Karamay City in the north and ending in Kuqa City in the Aksu region in the south, it spans 561 kilometers and connects a series of geological wonders including snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands, forests, lakes, Danxia landforms, Yardang landforms, and deserts. Traveling along this road, one can experience the changing of four seasons in a single day and witness different landscapes every ten kilometers, earning it the title of a ‘mobile classroom of geological museums.’Comfort Type:Starting from 3980 RMB per person (includes budget hotels, standard business vehicles, basic admission tickets)
Quality Type:Starting from 5280 RMB per person (includes four-star hotels, luxury business vehicles, shuttle buses to core attractions)
High-End Type:Starting from 7880 RMB per person (includes five-star hotels, off-road vehicles, exclusive photographer)
Price Includes:
Transportation:Full air-conditioned tour bus (including fuel, tolls, parking fees)
Accommodation:6 nights of accommodation (including breakfast, efforts made to arrange room-sharing for solo travelers)
Meals:10 main meals (meal standard 50-150 RMB per person, including special culinary experiences)
Admission Tickets:First admission tickets to all attractions on the itinerary
Services:Professional tour guide, travel accident insurance, emergency medical kit
Price Excludes:
Round-trip major transportation (airfare/train tickets)
Personal expenses (such as shopping, self-paid entertainment)
Secondary consumption within attractions (such as boat rides, horseback riding)
Note:Prices may fluctuate based on departure dates. For specifics, consult with Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency and confirm upon signing the contract.
Core Highlights:Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency with the following process:
Online Consultation:Leave a message on the platform, specifying the number of travelers, dates, budget, and special requests.
Customized Plan:Customer service manager Zhang Jing will provide 2-3 itinerary options based on your needs, including detailed quotations and contract terms.
Confirmation and Signing:Sign an electronic contract after mutual agreement and pay a deposit to secure your spot.
Pre-Trip Preparation:Provide a packing list, weather forecast, real-time road condition updates, and other services.
Fee Description and Service Explanation
Fee Description:
Payment Methods:Bank transfer and third-party payment platforms are supported, with a deposit not exceeding 30% of the total cost.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:Subject to the contract signed by both parties. No liability for compensation in case of行程 changes due to force majeure.
:Efforts will be made to arrange room-sharing for solo travelers. Special circumstances require negotiation for additional fees.
Service Commitments:
Vehicle Guarantee:Use of vehicles under 5 years old, each equipped with GPS and first aid kits.
Tour Guide Qualifications:Certified tour guides on duty, with bilingual service personnel for each group.
Geological Wonders: The snow walls of Hashilegen Daban, the primeval forests of Qiaoerma, the aerial grasslands of Nalati, the winding river of Bayanbulak, and the red rock formations of Kuqa Grand Canyon create a visual feast.Emergency Response:8 local reception centers across Xinjiang to handle emergencies 24/7.
Transparent Consumption:No forced consumption during the itinerary, with all fees disclosed in advance.
Subject to actual consultation and contract signing.
Pre-Trip Recommended Packing List
Documents:Valid ID, driver’s license (if self-driving segment is included), medical insurance card
Clothing:Windbreaker, quick-dry clothes, sun-protective clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, warm hat
Protection:SPF50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, foldable umbrella, moisturizing skincare
Supplies:Thermos, power bank, common medications (cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness patches), snacks
Electronics:Camera, drone (requires prior notification), memory card, spare battery
Precautions
Opening Hours:The Duku Highway is open from mid-June to early October each year, with specific dates subject to official announcements.
Traffic Restrictions:Recommended for vehicles with 7 seats or fewer. Bus tours must take alternative routes.
Weather Changes:Large temperature differences between day and night in mountainous areas. Dress accordingly and carry rain gear during the rainy season.
Altitude Sickness:Some sections exceed 3000 meters in altitude. Avoid strenuous activities and consider bringing Rhodiola oral solution.
Environmental Protection Requirements:Littering is strictly prohibited throughout the journey, with potential fines for violators.
This highway, carrying natural wonders and cultural essence, awaits you to measure with your feet and record with your lens. Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency will assist you with professional services to unlock a comfortable and unforgettable Duku journey!
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation

