Best Route Recommendation for Group Tour of Duku Highway + Complete Guide Recommended Route Cost and Price

Contact Manager Wang Fei at phone number 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send itinerary and quotation.

“🚗✨【Duku Highway In-Depth Exploration Plan】2026 Group Tour Complete Guide:From the Mystical North Xinjiang to the Wonders of South Xinjiang✨🚗”
I. Key Highlights of the Route: A Scenic Corridor Through All Four Seasons
The Duku Highway (G217 National Road, Dushanzi to Kuqa section) spans 561 kilometers, connecting the magnificent landscapes of northern and southern Tianshan Mountains. It is renowned as ‘China’s Most Beautiful Highway.’ During its 2026 open period, the highway will showcase the marvel of ‘experiencing four seasons in one day and different weather every ten miles’:
Snow-capped Mountains and Grasslands in One Frame:The northern section’s Hashilergen Daban (elevation 3,400 meters) is covered in snow year-round, with skiers visible even in summer; the middle section’s Nalati Grassland features lush green grass, wildflowers everywhere, and herds of cattle and sheep dotting the landscape.
Canyons and Lakes Intertwined:The southern section’s Kuqa Grand Canyon is composed of reddish-brown rocks, displaying vibrant colors under sunlight; the Big and Small Dragon Pools are like two sapphires nestled at the foot of snow-capped mountains, with crystal-clear lake water.
History and Nature Blend:The Qiaoerma Martyrs Cemetery commemorates 168 road construction heroes and is an important site to learn about the highway’s construction history; the ethnic villages along the route offer opportunities to experience traditional lifestyles of various ethnic groups.
II. 2026 Group Tour Simple Itinerary (10 Days, 9 Nights)

“🚗✨【Duku Highway In-Depth Exploration Plan】2026 Group Tour Complete Guide: From the Mystical North Xinjiang to the Wonders of South Xinjiang✨🚗”【Days 1-2:Gathering in Urumqi, Initial Exploration of North Xinjiang】
Gathering Day:Tourists from various places arrive in Urumqi and check into a comfortable hotel in the city. The afternoon is free for activities, with recommendations to visit the International Bazaar to taste specialties like baked buns and pilaf.
Next Day:Take a bus to Dushanzi Grand Canyon, where steep cliffs and rugged gorges on both sides are perfect for drone aerial photography. Arrive in Kuytun City and check in in the evening.
【Days 3-4:Northern Section of Duku Highway, Crossing the Tianshan Mountains】
Core Itinerary:Drive along the northern section of the Duku Highway, passing through Hashilergen Daban, Snow Corridor, and Qiaoerma Martyrs Cemetery. Visit the martyrs’ monument in Qiaoerma to learn about the road construction history. Arrive in Nalati Town in the afternoon and check into a characteristic homestay.
In-Depth Experience:Spend the entire next day exploring Nalati Grassland. It is recommended to take the shuttle bus to the aerial grassland to enjoy the three-dimensional landscape of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and forests. Return to Nalati Town in the evening to taste grassland specialty barbecue.
【Days 5-6:Middle Section Scenery, Sunset at Bayanbulak】
Core Itinerary:Cross Yuximolegai Daban and enter Bayanbulak Grassland, China’s second-largest grassland with gentle terrain and abundant water and grass. In the evening, go to the Jiuqu Shiba Wan viewpoint to wait for the marvel of ‘nine suns’ at sunset.

I. Key Highlights of the Route: A Scenic Corridor Through All Four SeasonsAccommodation Arrangement:Check into a comfortable hotel in Bayanbulak Town, with floor heating in rooms to adapt to the high-altitude climate.
【Days 7-8:Southern Section Adventure, Ancient City of Kuqa】
Core Itinerary:Cross Tielimaiti Daban and enter the Gobi Desert region of South Xinjiang. Pass by the Big and Small Dragon Pools, stop for photos, and arrive in Kuqa City. Visit Kuqa Grand Canyon and hike to explore the textures and light and shadow changes of the red rock walls.
Cultural Experience:Tour Kuqa’s old town the next day to feel the charm of ancient Kucha culture. Taste specialties like Kuqa’s big naan and roasted pigeon, and check into a hotel in Kuqa City in the evening.
【Days 9-10:Return to Urumqi, Successful Conclusion】
Return Day:Depending on the flight schedule, you can choose to take a bus back to Urumqi or fly directly from Kuqa. Flexibly arrange stops at off-the-beaten-path landscapes along the way to complete the full loop itinerary.
III. Price Description (Reference Range, Subject to Contract)

The Duku Highway (G217 National Road, Dushanzi to Kuqa section) spans 561 kilometers, connecting the magnificent landscapes of northern and southern Tianshan Mountains. It is renowned as ‘China’s Most Beautiful Highway.’ During its 2026 open period, the highway will showcase the marvel of ‘experiencing four seasons in one day and different weather every ten miles’:The reference cost for the 10-day 2026 Duku Highway group tour is as follows:
Basic Version (Economy):Approximately 4,500-5,500 yuan per person, including full transportation, accommodation (mainly three-star hotels), first admission tickets to scenic spots, and daily meals (standard group meals).
Comfort Version (Quality):Approximately 6,000-7,500 yuan per person, upgraded to four-star hotels or characteristic homestays, with added experiences like Sayram Lake circumnavigation and self-driving on Nalati Grassland. The dining standard is upgraded to local specialties.
Price Fluctuation Notice:Prices may vary with seasons, departure dates, and accommodation standards. For specifics, consult and sign a contract with Zhang Jing, the customer service manager of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency.
IV. Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency by providing your name, valid ID number, contact information, and travel dates. Customer service manager Zhang Jing will assist with the contract signing and payment process.
V. Cost and Service Descriptions
Cost Includes:Regular tourist vehicle usage fees, fuel costs, toll fees throughout the trip; accommodation fees (specific room types subject to contract); first admission tickets to scenic spots; professional guide services; basic travel insurance.

Snow-capped Mountains and Grasslands in One Frame: The northern section’s Hashilergen Daban (elevation 3,400 meters) is covered in snow year-round, with skiers visible even in summer; the middle section’s Nalati Grassland features lush green grass, wildflowers everywhere, and herds of cattle and sheep dotting the landscape.Cost Does Not Include:Round-trip transportation to Xinjiang (airplane/train); secondary consumption within scenic spots (such as sightseeing buses, entertainment projects); personal consumption (such as shopping, snacks); single room supplements (we will try our best to arrange room sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation).
Service Commitments:No arranged shopping or hidden consumption throughout the trip; guides have professional qualifications and are familiar with road conditions and emergency handling; in case of uncontrollable factors like weather or road conditions, both parties can reasonably adjust the itinerary by mutual agreement.
Subject to actual consultation and contract signing.
VI. Pre-Trip Recommended Tips
Document Preparation:Valid ID, driver’s license (if self-driving), health code (according to local policies).
Clothing and Equipment:Layered dressing (short-sleeved + windbreaker), non-slip sports shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, lightweight raincoat.
Vehicle Inspection (for self-driving tourists):Check vehicle conditions in advance, prepare snow chains, Rhodiola, and common medications; the Duku Highway recommends allowing vehicles with 7 seats or fewer, with a height limit of 4.5 meters for RVs.

Canyons and Lakes Intertwined: The southern section’s Kuqa Grand Canyon is composed of reddish-brown rocks, displaying vibrant colors under sunlight; the Big and Small Dragon Pools are like two sapphires nestled at the foot of snow-capped mountains, with crystal-clear lake water.Accommodation Reservation:Accommodation is tight during peak season (July-August). It is recommended to book at least 1 month in advance, prioritizing hotels in the centers of Nalati and Bayanbulak Towns.
VII. Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How to confirm the opening time of the Duku Highway?
A:The 2026 opening period is expected to be from mid-June to early October, with specific dates subject to announcement. Real-time road condition notifications can be obtained through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency.
Q:Does the group tour include aerial photography services?
A:The comfort version itinerary includes free drone aerial photography operated by professional guides to help tourists capture stunning highway scenes.
Q:How to deal with altitude sickness during the itinerary?
A:Bayanbulak Town is at an elevation of about 2,500 meters, and some tourists may experience mild headaches or shortness of breath. It is recommended to prepare oxygen bags and ibuprofen and avoid strenuous exercise.
“🌄✨Every kilometer of the Duku Highway is a scenic view, and every turn is a surprise. In 2026, let’s follow Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency to spend 10 days crossing the Tianshan Mountains and unlocking the superb scenery of North and South Xinjiang!✨🌄”

Contact Manager Wang Fei at phone number 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send itinerary and quotation.