Quick answer: The Duku Highway typically opens around mid-June and closes in early October, about 4 months a year. In 2026 it opened on June 1 and closed for winter on October 8 at 20:00. Daily access is 9:00-20:00, and only vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed.
The Duku Highway (G217 from Dushanzi to Kuqa) crosses the Tianshan mountains. It is one of China's most scenic roads, but it is closed every winter due to heavy snow. Here is everything you need to know for the 2026 season.
Opening and closing dates
In 2026 the highway opened on June 1 and closed on October 8 at 20:00. It is expected to reopen around June 2027. Exact dates vary by snow conditions every year.
Daily access and vehicle rules
Except for the Nalati-Bayanbulak section, the highway opens at 9:00 AM and closes entry at 8:00 PM. Only passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed. Trucks, trailers and RVs are prohibited.
Can foreign cars drive the Duku Highway?
Yes. Foreign-registered vehicles need temporary Chinese plates and a temporary driving permit, arranged through an authorized travel agency. Some checkpoints along the way require passport registration. We confirm the current rules and file your route before you arrive.
Fuel, lodging and supplies
- Fuel up in Dushanzi, Nalati and Bayanbulak - no stations on the passes
- Stay overnight in Nalati or Bayanbulak, book early in July-August
- Altitude passes around 3000-3400m, bring a warm jacket
- No mobile signal on some sections, download offline maps
Best time to go
Mid-June: few people but possible residual snow. July-August: best scenery but crowded. Late September: golden colours, fewer cars, stable weather - our favourite time.
We arrange temporary plates, temporary driving licences, insurance and route filing for foreign-registered vehicles. Contact us on WeChat qxzj7557.