Ili, Xinjiang

The Eternal Soul of the Sky Road: Remembering Heroes at Qiaoerma Monument

Altitude

650m

ℹ️

About This Attraction

Qiaoerma Monument (also known as the Qiaoerma Revolutionary Martyrs Monument) is a profound and emotional landmark located deep within the Tianshan Mountains in Nileke County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Situated at the intersection of the Duku Highway (G217) and the Yi-Qiao Highway (S315), this site serves as the spiritual heart of the famous "Sky Road" connecting northern and southern Xinjiang.

The monument commemorates the 168 revolutionary martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the arduous construction of the Duku Highway between 1974 and 1983. This 561-kilometer highway, often described as a miracle of engineering, traverses treacherous terrain including glaciers, steep canyons, and high-altitude passes. The construction was a battle against extreme elements, involving avalanches, mudslides, and sheer cliffs. The soldiers who died here were young, with the oldest being 31 and the youngest only 16, dedicating their youth to opening this vital passage through the "natural barrier" of the Tianshan Mountains.

The memorial complex includes an imposing monument, a Martyrs' Cemetery, and the Duku Highway Memorial Hall (Museum). The monument stands tall against the backdrop of snowy peaks, inscribed with golden characters honoring the immortal spirit of the road builders. Behind it, the cemetery houses the graves of the 168 heroes, offering a solemn place for visitors to pay tribute. The adjacent museum displays historical photographs, old tools, and documents that vividly recreate the hardships and heroism of the construction era, serving as a bridge between the past and the present.

Surrounding the memorial is the breathtaking Qiaoerma Grassland and the winding Kash River. In summer, the area transforms into a lush green carpet dotted with wildflowers, contrasting sharply with the solemn stone markers and the eternal snow on the distant peaks. For travelers driving the Duku Highway, Qiaoerma is not just a rest stop; it is a place of pilgrimage to understand the human cost behind the spectacular scenery. It stands as a testament to the "Guardian of Tianshan" spirit, reminding every passerby that the smooth road beneath their wheels was paved with the blood and sweat of heroes,.

✨ Why Visit Qiaoerma Monument

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Tribute to 168 Heroes: Pay respects at the solemn monument and cemetery dedicated to the 168 soldiers who gave their lives building the Duku Highway, the "Sky Road" of Tianshan,.

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Duku Highway Memorial Hall: Explore the museum housing precious artifacts, photos, and stories that detail the ten-year struggle to conquer the Tianshan Mountains.

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Kash River Scenery: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Kash River winding through the Qiaoerma Grassland, offering a peaceful contrast to the rugged mountains.

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Strategic Intersection: Stand at the vital junction of the Duku Highway (G217) and S315, a key node connecting Ili, Dushanzi, and Kuqa.

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Gateway to Hashilegen: Use this site as a base to view the nearby Hashilegen Tunnel and Pass, famous for its year-round snow walls and high-altitude vistas.

Location & Nearby

📍 Showing 1 nearby attractions within 50km

📍 Ili, Xinjiang • 🏔️ 650m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Qiaoerma Monument Travel Guide

is a scenic and strategic road connecting Dushanzi in the north to Kuqa in the south, crossing the Tianshan Mountains. It is open only seasonally. Why was the monument built?

It was built to honor the 168 soldiers.

who died from avalanches, accidents, and harsh conditions during the highway's construction from 1974 to 1983. When is the best time to visit?

The best time.

is from June to September, when the Duku Highway is open and the weather is suitable for travel. The road is closed in winter due to snow. Is there an entrance fee?

The outdoor monument area is generally open. There may be no charge or a nominal fee for the museum, but carrying ID is essential for checkpoints on the highway.

✨ Why Visit Qiaoerma Monument

✦Tribute to 168 Heroes: Pay respects at the solemn monument and cemetery dedicated to the 168 soldiers who gave their lives building the Duku Highway, the "Sky Road" of Tianshan,.

✦Duku Highway Memorial Hall: Explore the museum housing precious artifacts, photos, and stories that detail the ten-year struggle to conquer the Tianshan Mountains.

✦Kash River Scenery: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Kash River winding through the Qiaoerma Grassland, offering a peaceful contrast to the rugged mountains.

✦Strategic Intersection: Stand at the vital junction of the Duku Highway (G217) and S315, a key node connecting Ili, Dushanzi, and Kuqa.

✦Gateway to Hashilegen: Use this site as a base to view the nearby Hashilegen Tunnel and Pass, famous for its year-round snow walls and high-altitude vistas.