Every winter Xinjiang’s high roads close under snow. This 2026–2027 closure map tells self-drivers what to avoid and what stays drivable — the planning companion to our winter road trip guide.
Roads That Close
- Duku Highway: Typically shuts October–November and reopens late May/June. The signature seasonal closure.
- High Pamir / some border routes: Snow and permit tightening reduce access; confirm with the border pass guide.
- Northern high passes (e.g., near Kanas) can close in deep winter.
Roads That Stay Open
- G30 expressway corridor (Urumqi–Turpan–Korla–Aksu–Kashgar): Plowed and open.
- Eastern basin: Urumqi, Turpan, and the Flaming Mountains are mild and drivable.
- Southern Tarim towns: Kashgar and Hotan remain accessible.
Planning Around Closures
- Build your route on open corridors; treat high passes as seasonal bonuses.
- Watch the prior season’s new-highway update for reopening hints.
- Snow tires/chains are essential on any mountain leg — see safety.
FAQ
When does Duku close for 2026?
Historically October–November; exact date announced locally each autumn.
Can I still do a good trip in winter?
Yes — Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar, and the Tarim rim are all reachable and crowd-free.
When do passes reopen?
Late May/June for Duku, depending on snowmelt. Confirm yearly.