Per an announcement by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Department of Transportation, the Dushanzi to Kuqa section of G217 will be closed to winter traffic starting at 20 on 8 10, 2026. All social vehicles are prohibited from passing through the entire line. Reopening is expected around early 6 in 2027; please refer to official notices for the exact date. This closure requires rescheduling your planned self-drive crossing of the Tianshan Mountains.
This route's appeal lies in traversing from high-altitude alpine meadows to a canyon landscape within a single day, with elevation dropping from 2,000–3,000 meters down to around 1,000 meters. The resulting shifts in climate and vegetation are immediately apparent. Due to the road's dependence on elevation and weather conditions, it is only open for a few months each year; winter closures are standard practice, not an exception.
Can I leave during the lock-up period?
Road is closed to all traffic during the restricted period with no exceptions. Discussions about flow control or reservations are now moot. If you wish to use this route, wait for the next travel season. Typically, the season runs from early June to early October; opening dates may vary by up to a week depending on snow clearance progress. Temporary closures can occur even during the season due to snowfall or rockfalls. Check for updates before departure.
Key rules for the travel season: The northern section (Dushanzi to Nalati) requires advance reservation; the central and southern sections (Nalati to Kuqa) follow current regulations. Only passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are permitted, and there is no toll fee on the highway itself. These details may change annually, so check official announcements before you depart.
II. How to substitute this season
The highlights of the Duku Highway are alpine meadows, snow-covered passes, and canyon landscapes—some of which can be experienced differently in winter. For instance, grasslands and alpine lakes along the route often have alternative access routes during the colder months. On the southern Xinjiang side, fewer visitors in winter make the canyon trails quieter and more peaceful to explore.
Rule of thumb for alternatives: change "one-way" to "round-trip". Routes that differ between cities in summer often require the same path in both directions during winter. Add an extra day for the return journey and do not estimate duration based on summer timelines.
- To see snow-capped mountains and vast forests: Drive or visit the scenic areas along the Altay route in winter, when road maintenance is excellent.
- For views of alpine lakes and grasslands: Head toward Ili; note that some sections remain open in winter.
- Explore the canyon landscape: The southern Xinjiang side is accessible year-round; check road conditions after rain or snow.
- To capture the Dawan Snow Line: Choose other high-altitude routes open in winter and observe speed limits.
Check pass status in advance
Xinjiang's highways are heavily affected by weather, with mountain passes often subject to temporary closures. Check road conditions and closure updates 1–2 days before departure to avoid turning back at the pass. If driving yourself, plan alternative routes in advance so you can switch immediately if a road is closed.
Winter intervals between fuel stations are longer; refuel before your tank drops below half. Mountain areas have cellular dead zones—download offline maps in advance and exchange contact info with fellow travelers.
III. Preparation for Traveling Along the Tianshan Mountains in Winter
Winter brings colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours, leaving you 2–3 fewer usable hours than in summer. Don't over-schedule your day; one main destination is enough. Keep water, snacks, and a blanket handy in the car. Cell signals are weak in mountainous areas, so download offline maps beforehand. On icy or snowy roads, braking distances are longer than usual—accelerate, turn, and brake more slowly.
If traveling with elderly people or children, shorten outdoor exposure and return to the vehicle or indoors for warmth every two hours. As altitude increases, monitor your body's response; stop and rest if you experience dizziness or shortness of breath.
4. Defer the plan to the next travel season
If you're traveling specifically for the Duku Highway, consider splitting your trip into two segments: drive the passable sections in winter and save the full crossing for after June. Snow lines persist early in the season, while high-altitude wildflowers peak in July and August—ideal times for photography and flower viewing differ.
- The peak season typically opens in early June; refer to official announcements for exact dates.
- Northern section requires advance booking; confirm reservation method and release time slots before traveling.
- Only passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed; RVs and large vehicles cannot pass.
- Daily time restrictions apply; no night travel allowed. Plan accordingly.
How to estimate the budget
During the closed period, an alternative route will be used. Mileage may increase, so charter fees and fuel costs will be recalculated based on actual distance. Prices are subject to the confirmed quote for this period. The Duku Highway itself has no tolls during the travel season, but accommodation prices along the route rise significantly in peak season. Book early for better availability.
For road conditions, you can refer toDriving Conditions & Safety TipsThis article includes information on speed limits, refueling intervals, and driving in mountainous areas. For the history of Duku Highway and key sights along the route, please refer toDuku HighwayIntroduction page.
