7 Days Xinjiang Duku Highway Biking Tour

Your cycling journey officially begins today from the starting point of the Duku Highway. After a warm-up, you will gradually ride into the foothills of the Tianshan Mountains.

The first section to Kazi (approx. 40KM) is a gentle uphill ride on smooth asphalt, ideal for finding your rhythm. As you continue deeper into the mountains, the landscape becomes more dramatic—passing the iconic “Guardian of Tianshan” rock formation, crossing the Qingshui River Bridge, and navigating the narrow and rugged “Tiger’s Mouth” canyon section.

By midday, you will reach Maoliugou for lunch, surrounded by rocky cliffs and river valleys. In the afternoon, the ride continues along winding mountain roads until arriving at Wulansadeke (K639), where you will stay overnight at higher elevation.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Smooth asphalt road with gradual elevation gain
• Moderate mountain curves and canyon sections
• Occasional wind exposure in open valleys
• Increasing gradient toward the end of the day

Cycling Distance:
~90KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Maintain steady cadence—do not push too hard on first day
• Use sun protection in exposed canyon areas
• Keep energy intake consistent (snacks every 1–1.5 hrs)
• Prepare for cooler evening temperatures at higher altitude

Today marks your first true high-altitude challenge as you ride deeper into the Tianshan Mountains. The route features continuous climbing, dramatic scenery, and one of the most iconic sections of the entire Duku Highway.

You will pass waterfalls, steep mountain switchbacks, and reach the famous Snow Protection Corridor—an engineering structure built to protect the road from avalanches. The highlight of the day is crossing the Hashilegen Tunnel (approx. 3,400m), one of the highest points on the route. The tunnel is long and unlit, adding a sense of adventure.

After exiting the tunnel, you are rewarded with a thrilling 24KM downhill ride into the Ili region, where the scenery transforms rapidly into greener valleys and forests. Continue riding through the scenic “Hundred Miles Gallery” before reaching Qiaoerma.

You may also visit the Qiaoerma Martyrs’ Cemetery, a moving historical site dedicated to workers who built the highway under extreme conditions.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Long sustained uphill climb to high-altitude tunnel
• Unlit tunnel section (must use bike lights)
• Fast and technical downhill with curves and possible crosswinds
• Mixed smooth asphalt and mountain road surfaces

Cycling Distance:
~55KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Equip front and rear bike lights before entering tunnel
• Wear windproof and warm layers (temperature drops significantly)
• Control speed carefully on long downhill sections
• Watch for sudden weather changes (fog, wind, cold air)
• Stay hydrated despite cooler temperatures at altitude

Today's adventure begins with a fun cultural twist—dress up in local ethnic costumes and take photos on the lush grasslands, creating unforgettable memories along the legendary Duku Highway.

Afterward, cycle across the Kashi River Bridge and visit the Qiaoerma Martyrs' Cemetery, where you can learn about the remarkable history behind the construction of this iconic mountain road. The ride continues along the scenic Alestan River, gradually gaining elevation through a beautiful valley landscape.

A major challenge today is the 9KM steady climb to the Yuximolegai Tunnel at 3,200 meters. This tunnel, nearly 2KM long and completely unlit, adds both excitement and difficulty to the ride. After passing through, enjoy a long and rewarding downhill section with sweeping panoramic views of the stunning Nalati Grassland.

Continue riding past the Nalati service area (ideal for a short rest) before arriving in Nalati Town for the night.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Mostly smooth asphalt road
• Gradual ascent along river valley
• Sustained climb before tunnel section
• Dark, cold, and damp tunnel (no lighting)
• Long downhill with wide curves and open scenery

Cycling Distance:
88KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Prepare front and rear bike lights for tunnel crossing
• Wear warm layers—temperature drops significantly at altitude
• Maintain steady pacing on the 9KM climb
• Control speed on downhill sections for safety
• Be ready for sudden weather changes in mountainous terrain

Pro Tip: The Yuximolegai Tunnel is nearly 2 km long and unlit, so make sure your bike lights are ready. Keep warm clothing handy—it can get chilly at high altitudes.

After breakfast, continue your journey along the spectacular Duku Highway, entering one of the most scenic and rewarding sections of the entire route. Today’s ride takes you deep into the heart of the Tianshan Mountains, where landscapes open into vast alpine meadows and river valleys.

Departing from Nalati, you will pass the “Zero Kilometer” checkpoint and follow the Gongnaisi River upstream. The road gently winds through rolling green hills, with snow-capped peaks occasionally visible in the distance. The scenery gradually transitions into expansive grasslands as you approach the highland region.

After reaching La’erdun Pass (approx. 2,600m), enjoy a long and smooth descent into the magnificent Bayinbuluke Grassland, one of China’s largest and most beautiful alpine grasslands. Here, wide open plains stretch endlessly, dotted with grazing horses and traditional Kazakh yurts, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment.

Arrive in Bayinbuluke Town in the afternoon, where you can relax and, if time permits, explore the surrounding wetlands and grassland scenery.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Predominantly smooth asphalt road
• Gentle uphill along river valleys
• Moderate pass crossing at La’erdun
• Long downhill into open grassland
• Possible crosswinds in exposed plains

Cycling Distance:
65KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Maintain a steady rhythm—today is scenic but still requires endurance
• Use sunscreen and sunglasses—UV exposure is strong on grasslands
• Carry windproof clothing due to sudden weather changes
• Stay alert for crosswinds when riding in open areas
• Keep camera ready—this is one of the most photogenic days of the tour

Hotel: Overnight in Bayinbuluke
Transportation: Bike(65km)
Altitude: 2600m

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the entire journey along the Duku Highway, featuring long-distance riding and dramatic landscape transitions from lush grasslands to rugged canyon terrain.

Starting from Bayinbuluke, you will first cycle across open grasslands for about 60KM on relatively smooth roads, enjoying wide views of the vast steppe. The route then gradually shifts into a sustained 30KM uphill climb toward the Tielimaiti Tunnel at approximately 3,200 meters. This section requires endurance and steady pacing as the altitude increases.

After passing through the tunnel (unlit and cold), you are rewarded with an exhilarating 11KM downhill descent featuring multiple hairpin turns. As you descend, the scenery transforms rapidly—passing the stunning Dragon Pools with crystal-clear alpine waters, before entering the dramatic Kurgan Canyon region.

The terrain becomes increasingly dry and rocky as you approach the Kuqa Coal Mine area, marking a clear transition from green highlands to arid canyon landscapes.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Long-distance ride with mixed terrain
• Smooth grassland sections transitioning to sustained mountain climb
• High-altitude tunnel (dark, cold, and possibly damp)
• Steep downhill with sharp switchbacks
• Dry, rocky, and dusty surfaces near canyon areas

Cycling Distance:
120KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Start early to manage long distance and conserve energy
• Use proper lighting for tunnel sections
• Control speed carefully on steep downhill to ensure safety
• Stay hydrated—altitude and distance increase fatigue
• Prepare layered clothing for temperature changes (cold mountains to warm canyon)

Hotel: Overnight in Kuqa Coal Mine
Meal: breakfast,lunch,dinner
Transportation: Bike(120km)
Altitude: 3200m

On the final day, you complete your epic ride along the legendary Duku Highway, cycling from the mountains into the southern Xinjiang basin and finishing in the historic Silk Road city of Kuqa.

The ride begins with a relatively gentle section as you head toward the breathtaking Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon. This dramatic canyon features towering red rock walls, narrow passages, and unique geological formations shaped over millions of years—an ideal stop for exploration and photography.

Continuing onward, the landscape transforms quickly into a dry, desert-like environment. You will pass rural villages and witness the striking contrast between the lush Tianshan Mountains behind you and the arid terrain ahead. The road conditions remain good, allowing for a steady and enjoyable final ride.

Your journey concludes at the Duku Highway Endpoint Monument, where you can celebrate completing one of China’s most iconic cycling routes. Afterward, transfer to Kuqa city for a well-deserved celebratory dinner.

Cycling Road Condition:

• Mostly smooth asphalt road
• Gentle rolling terrain with gradual descent
• Increasing heat and dry conditions
• Occasional sandy or dusty roadside sections

Cycling Distance:
94KM

Cycling Travel Tips:

• Start early to avoid midday desert heat
• Use strong sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Increase water intake due to dry climate
• Ride at a comfortable pace—final day is more relaxed
• Take photos at key landmarks to commemorate your journey

Hotel: Overnight in Kuqa
Meal: breakfast,lunch,dinner
Transportation: Bike(94km)
Altitude: 1000m