7 days 6 nights
Daily Tour
1 person
Chinese, English
Experience Legendary Xinjiang: A 7-Day Ride on the Duku Highway
Journey along the Duku Highway, famed as the “road that crosses four seasons in a day.” Starting in Dushanzi and riding north to the ancient city of Kuqa, you’ll traverse dramatic landscapes—from snow-dusted peaks and forested valleys to rugged highlands and rolling grasslands. Each day brings new, breathtaking views, shaped by the majestic Tianshan Mountains.
Along the way, you’ll encounter remote Kazakh and Mongolian villages, where warm hospitality and living traditions add depth and authenticity to your adventure. Designed for riders who seek both physical challenge and soul-stirring beauty, this tour takes you across one of China’s most spectacular roads—a true bucket-list experience.
This road cuts straight through the Tianshan Mountains, stretching 561 kilometers. It took ten years to build, and 168 soldiers gave their lives to make it happen—a true monument in the history of road engineering worldwide. This is the Duku Highway!
A lot of people dream of cycling the Duku Highway, but let’s be real: the infrastructure is limited, cell service disappears in many sections, the weather changes wildly (you can experience all four seasons in a single day), and the road conditions are tough, with elevation changes of several thousand meters. That’s why very few actually make it all the way.
So, how can you take on the Duku Highway without regrets? After rounds of improvements and upgrades, we now offer a 1:1 seat ratio in our support vehicle. If you hit a dangerous section or just run out of steam, you can hop in the car and keep moving. Think of it as “4+2” travel: four wheels in the support van + two wheels on your mountain bike. Ride when you want, sightsee when you want—we’ll help you conquer the Duku your way.
We offer two route options for cycling the Duku Highway. Let’s see which one fits you best.
Heroes from all over gather in Dushanzi and check into the hotel. If you arrive early, you can visit the famous Dushanzi Grand Canyon (or Kuytun Grand Canyon) – a popular spot on Douyin. It’s not only about jaw-dropping canyon views, but also has plenty of exciting activities, making it a great place to relax. You can also team up with others to explore and taste some local Xinjiang specialties – the big nangbread is a must-try, and it’s perfect for keeping you fueled on the ride. At 5:30 PM, we'll kick off with a briefing, hand out cycling gear, share riding tips, and do a short warm-up ride. The day wraps up with a welcome dinner.
We start our first real riding day. The route takes us across the Gobi Desert, where you’ll feel the vast, rugged beauty of the northwest, then into canyons with ever-changing landscapes. Today is a steady uphill climb, so it won’t be easy. Our guides will share some tips on tackling long ascents. We’ll rest for the night at Wulansadeke and recharge for the big ride tomorrow.
We set off early today to take on the biggest challenge of the ride. Not only will we pass the tricky “Tiger’s Mouth” and Mengkete Ancient Road, but we’ll also ride through the famous “World’s Only Snow Shelter Tunnel.” Even in the hottest summer, you might still see snow here. This “Life Gallery” of the Duku Highway is a real wonder, with steep cliffs, winding mountain passes, and endless switchbacks. You’ll literally ride through all four seasons in one day – from blazing heat to chilly depths – before descending through the painting-like Hundred-Mile Gallery to Qiaoerma.
After the tough climbs and some easier riding, your body and mind are now getting into the groove. We’ll pass the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where 168 heroes who gave their lives building the Duku Highway rest. Their memory reminds us that the road ahead is still long, with many icy passes waiting to be conquered. The scenery of Ili – often called the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall” – won’t disappoint either. After 103 km, we reach Nalati Grassland, known as one of China’s six most beautiful grasslands. In the evening, visit a Kazakh village to experience authentic local culture.
Today’s ride connects two of Xinjiang’s most stunning grasslands. It’s much easier than yesterday, with shorter distance. Along the way, you’ll see lush pastures, flowers, birds, deep valleys, and vast primeval spruce forests – it’s like entering a hidden paradise. You might even get friendly waves from local Kazakh kids. Once we enter the Bayinbuluke Basin, the road flattens out, and endless wildflowers and grasslands stretch before you. In the evening light, the famous “Nine Bends” of the river look especially magical. You can visit Bayinbuluke Scenic Area on your own later.
Today is one of the toughest days – a real rollercoaster ride. We leave the flat, flower-filled grasslands of Bayinbuluke and start climbing over mountains. Soon, the winding Tianshan Highway appears, snaking up toward the sky. After crossing the Tianshan range, you’ll be rewarded with views of the stunning blue-green Great and Small Dragon Pools nestled in the valley. Then it’s a gentle downhill to Kuruli.
Ride early to the Tianshan Grand Canyon – a super photogenic spot loved by social media. Today’s route is relatively flat and manageable. As you ride, it feels like passing through a giant geological park, with rolling Yardang landforms, endless U-shaped roads, red stone forests, and distant canyons everywhere you look. Arrive in Kuqa by 4:30 PM for a farewell dinner and award ceremony to wrap up the tour. Kuqa was once the capital of the ancient Qiuci Kingdom on the Silk Road, and it’s rich in history and culture. You can visit the Kuqa Prince’s Mansion to feel the Silk Road vibe before heading home.
We provide the main stuff: a good-quality mountain bike, helmet, gloves, a neck gaiter, raincoat, trouser clips, and a reflective safety vest. You can also request a saddle, panniers, and a handlebar bag if you need them. Just bring your own riding clothes and shoes!
Groups are usually small. If there are 7 or fewer riders, a tour leader will be with you in the support vehicle, handling meals, accommodation, and bike fixes. For larger groups, we still have a leader, plus extra support.
The support vehicle follows the group the whole way. It carries your luggage, can give you a lift if you’re tired (we have enough seats), helps with route guidance, and is there just in case.
Yes! We have a professional photographer with a drone coming along. They’ll capture cool shots of you riding and the amazing scenery—great for sharing later.
You’ll stay in comfortable hotel twin rooms for five nights. One night, due to remote location, we’ll be in a shared room for 3-4 people. It’s clean and simple.
You’ll get a Duku Highway cycling certificate, a medal, a travel gift pack, plus bottled water and fruit along the way. We also provide solid outdoor insurance for peace of mind.
No worries! The leader can handle basic repairs, and we carry a full repair kit. If it’s something serious, the support vehicle can help transport the bike.
We’ve got tickets to the Tianshan Grand Canyon, a chance to explore deep in the grasslands, and a fun Kazakh cultural evening with performances.
The package includes 6 breakfasts and 3 lunches. Other meals are on your own, so you can try local food as you like.
The main things not covered are: your travel to and from the start/end points, optional attraction visits, and any personal spending. Also, if you want your own hotel room, there’s an extra fee (but it’s not available for two nights).
It varies! Days range from 69km to 156km, with some big climbs. The longest day is tough, but the support vehicle is there if you need a break. We recommend training a bit beforehand.
You can request a single room for most nights for an extra fee (800–1100 RMB depending on season), but for two nights, due to limited rooms, single supplement isn’t available.
The weather on Duku Highway can change fast. We have rain gear, and the support vehicle is there for shelter or transport if needed. Safety always comes first.
It’s best if you have some cycling experience and decent fitness. The distances and climbs are challenging, but with the support vehicle and the option to take breaks, many determined riders can complete it.
You’ll need to arrange your own travel to Dushanzi Town and from Kuqa at the end. We’ll send detailed info on meeting points and times once you book.
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