The Duku Highway
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
Duration: 6 days
Group size: 8 to12 travelers
Theme: The Most Beautiful Drive in China
Route: Urumqi – Turpan – Kuqa – Duku Highway – Urumqi
Route Overview
Duration: 8 Days / 8 Nights
Destinations: Urumqi – Turpan – Kuqa – Duku Highway – Urumqi
Embark on a legendary overland journey across Xinjiang, where deserts, glaciers, and ancient Silk Road towns converge. From Urumqi’s modern skyline to Turpan’s desert oases, and onward through Kuqa’s red canyons and the epic Duku Highway, this route captures the vast contrasts that define China’s wild northwest.
Traverse from the edge of the Taklamakan Desert to the snow peaks of the Tianshan Mountains, meeting Uyghur communities, tasting frontier flavors, and experiencing landscapes that have inspired travelers for centuries
Highlights
Walk through the fiery canyons of the Flaming Mountains in Turpan
Sail or hike around the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, framed by snow-capped peaks
Drive one of China’s most spectacular roads, the Duku Highway, cutting through glaciers, alpine meadows, and red-rock gorges
Explore the ancient Silk Road city of Kuqa, once a Buddhist and trade center
Immerse in Uyghur culture, cuisine, and music, from kebabs and nang bread to desert bazaars
Witness the vast meeting of mountain, desert, and sky, Xinjiang’s untamed soul
Why Join
For travelers who crave the open road and the thrill of the unknown, this expedition offers a rare chance to trace the living soul of the Silk Road, from sun-scorched deserts to snow-lined passes.
It’s a journey through contrasts: the scent of cumin in Uyghur night markets, the silence of turquoise lakes beneath the Tianshan, the rhythm of wheels cutting across forgotten valleys.
The Duku Expedition is not about sightseeing, it’s about immersion in the vastness, freedom, and untamed beauty of China’s far west.
Conditions & Pricing
Conditions
What is included:
✅ Accommodation with breakfast
✅ Dinners featuring local cuisine
✅ All local transportation
✅ Expert local guides
✅ Drivers, fuel
✅ Complimentary drinks and snacks
✅ Visa support and assistance
✅ Travel insurance coverage
✅ Dedicated media team
What is NOT included:
❌ International flights
❌ Personal extra meals and expenses
❌ Optional activities
❌ Visa costs (when applicable)
Pricing
From US$3,200
Full quote sent once the group is assembled.
Get 10% discount if you book both routes.
No worries! Feel free to contact us to get tailor made support to select your next adventure to China with Shambhala.
Not sure where to start?
Things to Know
Every expedition is designed to balance comfort, discovery, and a spirit of adventure. Before you join us, here are a few key details to help you prepare and make the most of your journey — from what to expect on the road to how we travel, stay, and experience each destination.
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Weather in Xinjiang (Late Spring / Early Summer)
Urumqi: 12–25°C — Mild to warm, mostly sunny, cool evenings.
Turpan: 18–32°C — Hot, dry desert climate, very sunny, little rain.
Kuqa & Duku Highway: 10–25°C — Cooler in mountain passes, possible wind and sudden showers; valleys warmer.
Heavenly Lake / Tianshan: 5–15°C — Snow-capped peaks, cold wind, bright sun, icy patches.
Overall: Expect strong sun, warm valleys, cooler high-altitude areas, and dry desert conditions. Pack layers, sun protection, and a light windproof jacket for higher elevations.
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We use a mix of high-speed trains, private vans, and one overnight Arctic train, offering a true overland experience through China’s winter heartland. It’s a comfortable and scenic way to witness the country’s vast diversity.
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You’ll stay in a mix of boutique hotels, cozy mountain lodges, and warm wooden guesthouses — all handpicked for charm, comfort, and atmosphere. Expect heated rooms, local character, and authentic northern hospitality.
From remote mountain trails to cultural hidden gems, we design seamless, small-group adventures that combine exploration, and authentic local experiences.
Explore 12 Expeditions in China with Shambhala
Ethnic China
Wild West I
Trans- Taklamakan
Silk Road Frontier
Northeast China
The Tea Route
Duku Highway
Mongol Crusades
Wild West II
Western Tibet
China Digital Economy
Bespoke Expeditions
Create your own adventure here.