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ALA → KGF
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Sary-Arka Airport (Karaganda)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views, including the massive Lake Balkhash and a broad perspective of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains during departure.
Search flights from ALA to KGF
Tien Shan Panorama
A wide-angle view of the northern mountain range as the plane climbs and turns north.
Lake Balkhash
One of Asia's largest lakes, easily identifiable by its unique crescent shape and turquoise waters.
Karaganda Mining District
The industrial layout and massive coal mining infrastructure visible during the descent into KGF.
Temirtau Industrial View
Distant views of the massive steelworks and industrial complexes surrounding the Karaganda region.
The right side is the clear winner for spotting Lake Balkhash, which usually appears 30-40 minutes after takeoff. For the best photography, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the turquoise water and the mountain peaks clearly.
Book Hotels in KaragandaTrans-Ili Alatau
Dramatic views of the snow-capped Tien Shan peaks immediately after takeoff from Almaty.
Betpak-Dala Desert
The vast, arid 'Steppe of Hunger' landscape that defines the transition to Central Kazakhstan.
Saryarka Steppe
The endless horizons of the Kazakh Uplands, showcasing the unique beauty of the northern steppe.
Sit on the left for evening flights to witness the sunset over the vast Kazakh steppe. This side provides a better view of the rugged mountain terrain in the first 10 minutes of flight if departing to the west.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for KazakhstanDistance: 757 km (470 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: KGF (49.670799255371094, 73.33439636230469)
Route Type: Domestic
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