Can a 7-seater vehicle travel on the Duku Highway?
3 Answers
Duku Highway allows 7-seater vehicles. Here are the relevant details about the Duku Highway: 1. Vehicle restrictions: The entire Duku Highway is open to vehicles with seven seats or fewer. 2. Time restrictions: Except for the section from Nalati to Bayinbuluke, which has no time restrictions, the entire Duku Highway allows entry from 9:00 AM, with traffic control enforced after 8:00 PM. 3. Overview: The Duku Highway spans from kilometer 553 (starting point) to kilometer 1114 (end point) of the G217 line, totaling 561 kilometers. Among this, the section under Wusu jurisdiction at kilometer 669 is currently under construction. The road is closed for a 221-kilometer stretch from the Dushanzi (553 km) jurisdiction section to the Nalati (774 km) jurisdiction section.
I've driven the Duku Highway several times, and this winding mountain road in Xinjiang is indeed passable for seven-seater vehicles. Last summer, our family took a seven-seater Highlander up there without any issues, but attention to detail is crucial: the road is narrow with many potholes, and some bends have nearly 180-degree blind spots. Wide seven-seaters should drive especially slowly when meeting oncoming traffic, staying on the outer side to prevent collisions. For vehicle selection, prioritize four-wheel-drive models with higher ground clearance to handle gravel and water accumulation. It's advisable to check tire wear and the braking system before departure. Mountain temperatures vary greatly, so ensure tire pressure is stable. Additionally, the highway is only open from May to October, so check traffic notices beforehand to avoid a wasted trip. Drive slowly, keeping under 60km/h, to safely enjoy the scenery.
Last time, my friends and I drove a seven-seater MPV on the Duku Highway, and it went quite smoothly, so there's no need to worry too much about whether the car can make it. The key challenge is the tricky road conditions: steep mountain slopes with constant ups and downs. The high center of gravity of a seven-seater requires a firm grip on the steering wheel when taking turns. My car encountered falling rocks blocking the road, but fortunately, I had installed a protective net in advance. Remember to keep your speed below 50km/h, honk before sharp turns to alert oncoming traffic, and carry a spare tire and basic tools just in case. Summer is the best time to go, avoiding the landslide risks during the rainy season. Also, parking can be tricky with a large vehicle, so arrive early at scenic spots to secure a spot and avoid spoiling the trip. Overall, a seven-seater can handle the Duku Highway, but it requires careful driving.
