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AZD destination photo
MHD destination photo

AZDMHD

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the vast Dasht-e Kavir's unique salt patterns and the dramatic Binalud mountain range during the descent into Mashhad.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏜️

Dasht-e Kavir

Breathtaking views of the Great Salt Desert with its intricate, naturally occurring geometric salt crust patterns.

🏔️

Binalud Range

Spectacular views of the highest peaks in Razavi Khorasan as the aircraft begins its approach to Mashhad.

⚪

Namak Lake

Glistening white salt flats that contrast sharply with the surrounding deep ochre and brown desert terrain.

🏚️

Silk Road Ruins

Occasional sightings of ancient mud-brick caravanserais and abandoned settlements along historic trade routes.

For the most vibrant colors in the salt desert, choose a morning flight when the sun is behind the aircraft. The Binalud mountains are particularly stunning in late winter and early spring when covered in snow. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the desert floor isn't obstructed by the engine.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏺

Ancient Qanats

Look for the characteristic 'string of pearls' patterns on the ground, representing the vertical shafts of UNESCO-listed underground water systems.

⛰️

Khorasan Highlands

Rugged, folded rock formations and desert mountains that showcase millions of years of geological activity.

🏙️

Mashhad Urban Sprawl

A comprehensive view of the rapidly expanding city and its suburban developments upon final approach.

🚜

Desert Oases

Small, vibrant green patches of agriculture that defy the surrounding arid environment near Gonabad.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep a close eye out for the Qanat systems near the midpoint of the flight; they appear as small, evenly spaced holes in the earth. If the plane circles before landing, you may get a distant glimpse of the Holy Shrine's golden dome.

Top Activities in Mashhad
Route Information

Distance: 690 km (429 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min

Departure: AZD (31.904899597199996, 54.2765007019)

Arrival: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)

Route Type: Domestic

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