Details
Urumqi Arrival
We arrange a dedicated 24-hour airport pick-up service to warmly welcome our guests from afar. We’ll transfer you to the hotel, where you can check in and rest, ready to embark on tomorrow’s exciting and surprise-filled Xinjiang adventure.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Xinglong International Hotel
Urumqi — S21 Desert Highway — Birch Forest Park — General Mountain Sunset — Altay
After breakfast, we will cross the only desert expressway in Xinjiang, the S21 Desert Highway, traversing China’s second-largest desert, the Gurbantunggut Desert. For 180 kilometers, the highway passes through a no-man’s-land with no communication signals. Along the way, you’ll spot numerous camels, and the scenery includes oases, wetlands, and the unique sea-like Yadan landforms. This is another new viral highway, sure to capture your imagination!
Next, we’ll head to Birch Forest Park, which stands out from typical man-made parks. Nestled by the mountains and water, the natural forest, river, and flowers seamlessly blend together. Under the graceful white birch trees, lush grass carpets the ground, streams babble nearby, and birds chirp through the forest. It’s common to spot squirrels, which act like little fairies, unafraid of people.
As we move on to General Mountain Ski Resort, the “birthplace of human skiing” in Altay, you’ll experience the most stunning sunset view. Take the scenic cable car up, and as you ascend, the city below shrinks, giving way to a vast mountain range stretching to the horizon. At the summit, we’ll wait for the sunset, where the warm orange glow of the setting sun fills the sky, offering a sense of healing. The snowy mountains are bathed in a golden light, and as the sun sinks below the horizon, the sky comes alive with vibrant hues—sometimes pale purple, other times soft red. Each moment holds a different color. As the last sliver of light fades, the sky, mountains, and snow are enveloped in a deep blue, marking the romantic “Altay Blue Hour.” The city lights, primarily in warm yellow, gradually illuminate the area, bringing a serene calm. Sitting quietly on the mountaintop bench, you can enjoy the night view of Altay City, and all your worries will melt away. During sunset at the General Mountain International Ski Resort, you’ll witness the romance of the sunset’s afterglow.
You can also enjoy a unique experience by sipping coffee in the “Coffee House” while taking in the beautiful scenery. Afterward, you will check in at the hotel in Altay.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Vienna International Hotel
Urumqi
Altay
Altay — Ahe Highway — Hemu Village
After breakfast, we will head to the ultimate self-driving destination in China, Xinjiang—time for another exciting update! The stunning Ahe Highway, crossing through the heart of Altay, is about to open! This scenic route passes through various attractions such as Da and Xiao Donggou, the Uxirlik Wetland Park, Toleheite, Yileke Stone Forest, and Heimu Village. It connects a series of landscapes, including canyons, forests, rivers, wetlands, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, stone forests, deserts, seas of clouds, plateaus, and rich cultural and historical sites, as well as ancient glacial relics. It’s like a “long corridor of oil paintings” and is renowned as the “most beautiful self-driving highway in Northern Xinjiang.”
Often referred to as “Southern Duku, Northern Ahe,” the Ahe Highway stretches for 208 kilometers, starting from Altay City and ending at Heimu Village in the Kanas Scenic Area. It’s an essential route in Altay’s “Thousand-Mile Gallery” eco-tourism path. The Ahe Highway is a destination for all seasons: “Spring brings blooming mountain flowers, summer boasts lush green grass, autumn paints vibrant forests, and winter cloaks everything in silver.”
Afterward, we will arrive at Hemu Village, a place where poetry and dreams come alive. Heimu, the last sanctuary of the gods, a place where myth and nature intertwine. Today, we finally step into this picturesque paradise. The locals say: “I am fortunate to be born in the land of the gods, blessed with their protection. By the will of the gods, I work at sunrise and rest at sunset, living in harmony with all of nature.”
The crystal-clear Hemu River flows joyfully through the snow-capped firs and birch forests, embraced by the serenity of the land. The blue sky and white clouds create a perfect backdrop. Warm sunlight bathes the lush green grass, while herds of cattle and sheep leisurely wander, as though painted by the hand of the divine.
From the observation deck, the sight of the wooden houses scattered among the snow-covered firs and green meadows, with the blue sky and white clouds above, presents a scene of pristine natural beauty. The landscape feels like a living painting, offering peace and tranquility so profound that you’ll find it hard to leave.
Sitting by the Hemu River, the crystal-clear water flows joyfully, surrounded by birch trees. A cool breeze refreshes the soul, and the once restless heart finds an unexplainable peace. One can’t help but marvel at the beauty of Hemu’s natural ecology.
Afterward, we will check in at the Hemu wooden house for a restful night.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hexi Autumn Villa
Altay
Hemu Village
Hemu — Kanas — Moon Bay — Immortal Bay — Dragon Bay — Urho
After enjoying breakfast at your leisure, it is said that Kanas is the backyard of the gods, and Heimu Village is undoubtedly the reserved land within that divine garden. Known as “China’s No. 1 Village,” Hemu is serene and tranquil, offering an unparalleled peace. Along the journey, you will pass rivers, forests, alpine meadows, snow-capped mountains, streams, pastures, deer parks, wooden bridges, ancient trees, and countless other scenic spots. Sometimes wide open, sometimes quiet and peaceful, and sometimes the sky is filled with soaring eagles. The journey presents an array of stunning views, and the landscape that resembles Switzerland in Northern Europe begins here. After exploring the morning beauty of Heimu Village, we will travel by car to the Kanas Scenic Area.
Take a car ride to the national 5A-level scenic area, the “Fairyland on Earth,” Kanas National Forest Park. Kanas is a comprehensive scenic spot that combines glaciers, lakes, forests, grasslands, pastures, rivers, ethnic customs, and rare wildlife. It is renowned as the “Switzerland of the East” and “Photographers’ Paradise.”
Upon arrival, transfer to the park’s shuttle bus to enter the scenic area. Along the way, visit Wulong Bay, Moon Bay, Immortal Bay, and Duck Lake, with stops for photo opportunities. Finally, arrive at Kanas Lake, where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the three bays. Kanas Lake is not only famous for its stunning landscapes but also for the legendary “lake monster,” which has brought it worldwide attention. At this moment, feel free to indulge in your favorite activity and unwind. Afterward, take the shuttle bus to Urho, where you will check into your hotel.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Xiretu Hotel
Kanas
Urho
Urho — World Devil City — Sailimu Lake
After breakfast, take a vehicle to enter World Ghost City, a masterpiece of nature’s uncanny craftsmanship — the Yardang landform. Looking into the distance at Wind City, it resembles a large medieval European castle, with castles standing in rows, scattered unevenly. On the undulating hilltops, various coloured stones are spread out like a witch’s lost pearls, adding a touch of mystery. This is a typical Yardang landform area — “Yardang” is a Uyghur word meaning “steep-sided small hill.”
Then take a vehicle to visit the national AAAAA-level scenic area Sayram Lake (tickets + lake-circling included). [Due to Xinjiang’s operating vehicles having a daily travel limit of 600km, if lake-circling cannot be done today, it will be changed to the next morning.] The lakeshore is covered in green grass, flowers bloom abundantly, the lake water is clear and blue, with snowy peaks standing on the far shore, forested mountains rising layer upon layer. The grasslands by the lake and the scattered yurts on the slopes, with cattle and sheep like clouds and brocade — it is located in the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in western Xinjiang, backed by snow mountains. The lake’s edge is a vast prairie; the water is crystal blue; the scenery is breathtaking — one of Xinjiang’s well-known scenic spots.
Continue touring to Keleryongzhu — a Mongolian name meaning “place of many springs,” a scenic viewpoint of Sayram Lake. Sayram Lake is a colour-changing lake; due to its unique natural properties and surrounding environment, the lake appears in a variety of colours. Surrounded by mountains, with sky and water as one, it’s like a painting. While passing through the Haixi Wetlands, if lucky, one might see wild swans, white-eyebrowed ducks, and other waterfowl swimming and resting in the lake. In the forests there are also red deer, golden eagles, snow partridges, and other rare animals and birds. Standing on the Western Sea Grassland looking east across the lake, one can see the towering Husumuqige Mountain, covered with snow year-round, its solemn majesty comparable to Japan’s Mount Fuji.
Arriving at Genghis Khan’s Command Platform, it feels like witnessing the grand epic of the Mongol emperor’s western expeditions — experiencing the long and unique ethnic history of the western frontier. In the afternoon, a special stop is arranged for Sayram Lake Destination Photography [complimentary item, no refund if not attended, no makeup or styling included, 9 professionally edited photos provided]. Afterwards, check in at the guesthouse at Sayram Lake East Gate.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sailimu Lake Ruhai Homestay
World Devil City
Sailimu Lake
Sailimu Lake Loop — Guozi Pass Bridge — Lavender Base — Kazanqi — Liuxing Street — Yining
After breakfast, the tranquility of Sayram Lake is illuminated by the morning light. Occasionally, a gentle breeze sweeps across the lake, creating ripples on its surface. Soon, the sun begins to peek over the distant mountains, tinting the clouds in a brilliant red. As the sunrise lasts for only a short time, lasting no more than 10 minutes, those wanting to capture the beauty of the morning at Sayram Lake should seize the moment. Later, you will pass by the Guozi Gorge, known as “the first scenic spot in Ili” and “a wondrous fairyland.” Ancient poets have praised its beauty, saying, “The magnificence of the mountains and waters rivals Guilin, and the bizarre rock formations surpass Yan Mountain.” (Note: You can only admire the view along the way, as stopping is not permitted.)
Drive across the country’s first dual-tower, dual-cable-stayed steel truss bridge, the Guozi Gorge Bridge, which is also the highest highway bridge in Xinjiang. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Guozi Gorge, and visit the lesser-known, niche attraction of Huocheng Lavender.
This village is located in the heart of the world’s third-largest lavender planting area—the Yili Lavender Field, which spans thousands of acres. It offers the same tranquility and romance as Provence, sitting at the same latitude. Whether under a gentle breeze or a light rain, the fragrance of lavender fills the air, bringing a serene and romantic atmosphere to the village, especially in June.
Afterward, continue your journey to the Instagram-worthy Blue Town, Kazanqi Folk Village (horse carriage not included, free time for exploration). This quaint town, reminiscent of Morocco’s Chefchaouen, will transport you to a little corner of China, allowing you plenty of time to wander and soak in the charm.
You can enjoy a free street photography session in Kazanqi, with its blue houses, green doors, and pink walls creating a perfect backdrop. As you stroll through Liuxing Street, not only will you explore the old alleys and ancient streets, but you will also have the chance to sample ethnic delicacies and listen to traditional music. Yining is a place where multiple ethnic groups coexist, and its diverse cultures blend harmoniously. Liuxing Street stands as a testament to the unique cultural symbiosis of both external and local influences. Afterward, check in to your hotel.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Jinding International Hotel
Sailimu Lake
Lavender Base
Duku Highway Open: Yining — Nalati Sky Grassland — Nalati
Duku Highway Not Open: Yining — Nalati Sky Grassland — Hejing
After breakfast, take a bus to the AAAAA-level scenic spot, Nalati Grassland (entrance ticket and aerial vehicle included). Nalati means “large grassland” and is also known as the “Little Jiangnan of the Outside of the Great Wall.” Located in the Xinyuan County of Xinjiang, Nalati is one of the world’s four major grasslands. It is also the most diverse in terms of activities, where the beautiful grassland scenery blends with the local Kazakh customs, making it one of the most famous tourist and vacation destinations in Xinjiang.
In the afternoon, as the sun sets, we will enjoy the “Narat Wild Luxury Afternoon Tea,” before checking into the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Nalati: Vansen Resort/ Hejing: Donggui Hotel
Duku Highway
Nalati Grassland
Duku Highway Open: Nalati — North Section of Duku Highway — Urumqi
Duku Highway Not Open: Hejing/ Heshuo — Gangou — Tuguan Dabancheng Power Station — Urumqi
After breakfast, take a drive through China’s most beautiful road—the “Duku Highway.” This route, stretching from Dushanzi in Xinjiang to Kuche, cuts across the southern and northern Tian Shan mountain ranges, shortening the travel distance between the southern and northern parts of Xinjiang by half. Known for its steep, majestic, and perilous beauty, Duku Highway includes the highest tunnel in China, the Hashilegen Daban Tunnel.
This is a treacherous mountain road, with one-third of the route flanked by towering cliffs and one-fifth situated above the high mountain permafrost. It also features the world’s only snow-proof corridor. There is a particularly dangerous section known as “Tiger Mouth,” which is the most hazardous part of the Duku Highway. The winding road requires full concentration, and caution must be taken due to falling rocks. Along the way, you will pass by the Qiaorma Martyrs’ Cemetery, where a towering martyrs’ monument and the newly constructed Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, together with the Tian Shan Duku Highway Memorial Museum, form the Tian Shan Highway Martyrs’ Memorial Area. Finally, arrive in Urumqi and check into the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Xinglong International Hotel
Duku Highway
Urumqi Grand Bazaar
Urumqi Departure
A brief journey, yet every parting carries its own sentiment. Looking forward to our next meeting in Xinjiang.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Self-arranged
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | 2025-5-1 | $ 691 USD | Book now |
| 2025-5-26 | $ 830 USD | Book now | |
| Jun | 2025-6-1 | $ 830 USD | Book now |
| 2025-6-10 | $ 886 USD | Book now | |
| Jul | 2025-7-1 | $ 886 USD | Book now |
| 2025-7-11 | $ 969 USD | Book now | |
| Aug | 2025-8 | $ 969 USD | Book now |
| Sep | 2025-9 | $ 969 USD | Book now |
| Oct | 2025-10 | $ 969 USD | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 9-Day Xinjiang Duku Highway Tour: Urumqi, Kanas, Hemu, Sailimu Lake & More
Fee Description
Fees Include:
- Transportation: 14-seater modified to 7 luxury airline seats [1+1], each seat by the window with leg rest, massage, heating, and ventilation; driver also serves as the guide.
- Accommodation: Stay in 4-star hotels throughout (default is 2 people per standard room, single occupancy requires an additional 1600 CNY; from June 10th to October, single occupancy surcharge is 2000 CNY).
- Meals: Hotel breakfast included; no breakfast provided at Hemu and Sary-Moo Lake, please prepare your own meals in advance.
- Tickets: Admission to the first gate of the listed scenic spots + shuttle bus tickets.
- Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance + travel accident insurance.
Fees Do Not Include:
- Personal expenses are at your own discretion. It is recommended not to purchase expensive items near scenic spots to avoid disputes.
- Lunch and dinner throughout the journey.
- Optional activities in the itinerary are at your own expense.
- Single room supplement.
- Round-trip Transportation: Flight and train tickets to Urumqi and back (booking service provided).
- Other Expenses: All expenses incurred by travellers due to breach of contract, personal fault, activities arranged independently during the trip, or personal illness not mentioned in the “Services Included” above.
