Duku Highway 2026 closure dates confirmed: Road closed after 10 month 10, final window period

Duku Highway: A scenic route open for only 4 months a year

The Duku Highway (G217 National Road, Dushanzi to Kuqa section) spans 561 kilometers, stretching from Dushanzi District in Karamay City in the north to Kuqa City in the Aksu Prefecture in the south, traversing the Tianshan Mountains. This highway crosses 4 mountain passes, flows over 10 major rivers, and ascends from an elevation of 1000 meters to 3400 meters before descending back to 1500 meters. Along the way, it passes through diverse landscapes including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, gorges, lakes, and Yadan landforms, earning its reputation as one of "China's Most Scenic Highways."

Due to heavy winter snowfall in the high-altitude regions of Tianshan, the Duku Highway is only open from 6 to 10. It remains closed for the rest of the year. In 2026, it will remain open until around March 10, and close completely mid-10 to begin winter maintenance.

1. 2026 Duku Highway Schedule

Note: Roads may be temporarily closed during extreme weather such as blizzards or mudslides, even within the designated travel period. Be sure to check current road conditions before you depart.

II. Road Conditions and Highlights by Section of the Duku Highway

The Duku Highway spans 561 kilometers and is divided into northern, central, and southern sections, each with unique landscapes.

North Section: Dashanzishu → Qiaoerma (approximately 250 km)

The northern section is the most treacherous part of the Duku Highway, climbing from an elevation of 1000 meters in Dushanzi to 3400 meters at Haxilegen Pass. Along the way, deep gorges and steep cliffs dominate the landscape; the famous "Tiger's Mouth" stretch is located here.

Key Highlights:

• Dushanzi Grand Canyon: Majestic red sandstone gorge
• Halaquang Pass: elevation 3400 meters, snow may already be present by month 10.
• Qiomale Martyrs Cemetery: Honoring the 168 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the construction of the Duku Highway
• Snow Shelter Corridor: A tunnel complex located above 3000 meters in elevation

Road Conditions: The northern section has many curves and narrow roads; large vehicles are restricted. Self-driving requires experience with mountain roads.

Middle Section: Qiaoma → Nalati → Bayinbuluke (approximately 130 km)

The middle section is the most gentle and scenic part of the Duku Highway. It passes through the grasslands of the Ili River Valley, offering expansive views and herds of cattle and sheep.

Key Highlights:

• Nalati Grassland: One of the world's top four grasslands, turning golden in autumn.
• Bayinbuluke Grassland: China's second-largest grassland and a swan lake nature reserve
• Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns: The Kaidu River meanders across the grasslands, reflecting multiple suns on its surface at sunset.
• Tianshan Pasture: Kazakh Nomads' Seasonal Migration (Common from 9 to 10)

Reference Route:Ili River Valley 7-Day Loop

Southern Section: Bayinbuluke → Kuqa (approximately 260 km)

The southern section runs from the heart of the Tianshan Mountains southward to the northern edge of the Tarim Basin. As elevation decreases, the landscape transitions from alpine meadows to red canyons and yardang landforms.

Key Highlights:

• Tielimaiti Daban: Elevation 3200 meters, highest point of the southern section
• Daxiao Longchi: A high-altitude lake deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with jade-green waters.
• Tianshan Mystery Grand Canyon: A red sandstone canyon with ever-changing light and shadow.
• Kucha: Home of the ancient Kucha Kingdom, rich in history and culture

Reference Route:Duku Highway Southern Section: 5-Day Highlights Tour

III. Feasibility Analysis of Traveling the Duku Highway in Autumn

Advantages

• Fewer visitors: Crowds thin out significantly after mid-9, unlike the congestion seen in 7-8.
• Vibrant colors: Birch and larch trees turn golden along the route, creating a colorful landscape with snow-capped mountains and grasslands.
• Comfortable temperature: 10-18°C during the day—no need to turn on the AC or heater while driving.
• Accommodation is easy to book: While rooms in Bayinbuluke and Nalati are hard to find during peak season, availability improves significantly in autumn.

Risk

• Snowfall Risk: Snow is possible at high-altitude passes after 10, which may cause slippery roads or temporary closures.
• Overnight Freezing: Temperatures may drop below zero; dark ice on roads is hazardous.
• Time-sensitive: Roads will be closed around 10/10. Please allow extra time in your itinerary.
• Partial Service Area Closures: Some gas stations and restaurants along the route are closing for the season.

Suggestion

For an autumn trip on the Duku Highway, we recommend scheduling between 9 month 20 and 10 month 5. This window avoids summer crowds, ensures you pass before road closures, and offers stunning fall foliage. We do not recommend attempting this after 10 month 8 due to high risk.

4. Self-Driving vs. Rideshare vs. Group Tour

Self-drive

• Pros: High flexibility, stop anytime for photos
• Drawbacks: Demanding off-road driving requiring extensive experience; SUV or off-road vehicle required.
• Ideal for drivers with mountain road experience and familiarity with Xinjiang's road conditions.
• Note: The Duku Highway prohibits vehicles with more than 7 seats. Trucks are also prohibited on certain sections.

Ride Sharing / Charter

• Pros: Driven by experienced local drivers for a safe, worry-free ride.
• Cons: Slightly higher cost than driving yourself.
• Ideal for travelers without mountain driving experience who want to explore independently.
• Estimated costs: Ride-sharing approximately 800-1200 CNY/day/car (including fuel and tolls); Private charter approximately 1000-1500 CNY/day.

Group tour

• Pros: Hassle-free; accommodation and tickets included.
• Cons: Fixed itinerary with limited time for photos.
• Perfect for travelers who want to skip the hassle of planning transport and accommodation.
• Cost reference: 独库公路 group tour, 5-7 days, 3500-6000 CNY per person

V. Important Considerations for Traveling on the Duku Highway

Vehicle Requirements

• Vehicles of 7 seats or fewer can use the entire route.
• SUV or high-clearance vehicles preferred (some sections have gravel).
• Check brakes, tires, and antifreeze before departure.
• Snow chains recommended (required in 10 month)

Refuel & Resupply

• Dushanzi, Nalati, Bayinbuluke, and Kuqa have official gas stations.
• Jiama has a temporary fuel stop, but prices are higher.
• It's best to fill up at every gas station you see rather than waiting until the fuel light comes on.
• Carry sufficient water and dry food along the way.

Safe Driving

• Speed limit 30-60 km/h; average speed enforcement throughout the route.
• Do not overtake on curves; use a low gear for braking when going downhill.
• Driving not recommended at night (no streetlights, possible ice)
• When stopping for a herd crossing, do not honk to avoid startling them.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Duku Highway still open in 10?

Theoretically possible, but high risk. The route is scheduled to close around 10 10, 2026. The final window is 10 1-5. During this period, snow and ice may form on high-altitude passes like the Daban. If you must travel, we recommend attempting it between 9 20 and 10 5 and carrying tire chains. Travel after 10 8 is not recommended.

Can you complete the Duku Highway in one day?

Not recommended. The full route is 561 km. While pure driving time is approximately 10-12 hours, the numerous scenic spots, sharp curves, and strict speed limits mean actual travel will take longer. We recommend completing the trip over 2-3 days, with an overnight stay in Qiaoma at the northern section or Nalati/Bayinbuluke in the central section.

What is the relationship between the Duku Highway and the Ili Loop?

The Duku Highway is the north-south corridor connecting Northern and Southern Xinjiang, while the Ili Loop is an east-west circuit around the Ili River Valley. These two routes intersect at Nalati or Bayinbuluke. Many itineraries combine the Duku Highway with the Ili grasslands to form a 8-10-day grand loop.

Reference Route:Yili + Duku Highway 8-Day In-Depth Tour

Can I still visit the Duku Highway after road closures?

All traffic is prohibited on the entire route after road closure, including private and tour vehicles. To view the winter snowscapes of the Duku Highway, you can only walk a short distance from either the Dushanzi or Kuqa entrance (without going deep), or wait for it to reopen in 6 next year. For more Xinjiang route planning, pleaseContact UsGet professional advice.