"A Must-Visit in This Lifetime! The Ultimate Romance of Duku Highway

(2) Route Planning 🚌🚌 - Northern Section (Dushanzi to Nalati, 230km, 5-6 hours): Start from Dushanzi, first visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon to witness the "Earth's Crack" formed by millions of years of erosion. Then head to Hashilegen Daban, where you can play with snow in summer at the first viewing platform, but beware of black ice and altitude sickness.🗣🗣 Next, visit the Qiaoer Martyrs' Cemetery to pay tribute to the heroes who built the road. If time permits, drive 38km west to Tangbula Grassland.🐎🐎 - Middle Section (Nalati to Bayinbuluke, 60km, 1.5 hours): Explore Nalati Grassland and experience Kazakh folk culture on horseback. From 7-9 PM, head to Bayinbuluke's Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns to photograph the reflection of "nine suns" at sunset. - Southern Section (Bayinbuluke to Kuqa, 250km, 6 hours): Depart from Bayinbuluke, passing by Big and Small Dragon Pools, emerald lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, perfect for hiking.🗣🗣 Then reach Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon to admire the red Danxia landform, but be cautious of falling rocks while hiking. Finally, arrive at Kuqa Old Town to enjoy local cuisine and Qiuci culture. (2) Driving Preparation 🚘🚘 - Vehicle Choice: Only vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed; trailers are prohibited. SUVs or off-road vehicles are recommended. Check brakes, tires, antifreeze, etc., in advance. Diesel vehicles must meet China VI standards, and electric vehicles should consider range.✈️✈️ - Emergency Gear: Prepare snow chains, a car air pump, high-brightness headlights, emergency medicine (e.g., rhodiola, oxygen tanks), and thick coats.🗣🗣 (3) Accommodation 🏡 - Northern Section: Choose Kalamay Taoli Garden in Dushanzi or a homestay in Tangbula Grassland. - Middle Section: Recommended is Bayinbuluke's Golden Eagle International Hotel; avoid yurts in scenic areas. - Southern Section: Kuqa's Qiuci Garden Hotel is a great option, with a rooftop viewing platform for photos of the Duku Highway endpoint monument. (4) Other Notes ⚠️⚠️ - Traffic Rules: No driving from 8 PM to 9 AM (except the middle section). Depart before 7 AM to avoid congestion. - Border Permit: Some areas in the Kuqa section may require a border permit, obtainable at your local police station or Kunming Road Police Station in Urumqi's Xinshi District. - Road Conditions: Many areas have no signal; download offline maps in advance. - Photography Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens, polarizing filter, etc. Drones can be flown at most of the 33 parking spots. - Essentials: Carry ID, cash, sun protection, and spare snacks.