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BKK → ALA
Which side of the plane to sit from Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) to Almaty Airport (Alma-ata)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a strategic vantage point for the most iconic geography on this route, including the western expanse of the Tibetan Plateau and distant but magnificent silhouettes of the high Himalayan peaks as you cross into Central Asia.
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Salween River Gorges
Dramatic views of the deep, narrow river valleys cutting through the rugged terrain of eastern Myanmar.
Himalayan Horizon
On clear days, the massive white wall of the central Himalayas is visible far to the west across the horizon.
Tibetan Glaciers
Flying over the 'Roof of the World,' featuring high-altitude lakes and pristine glacial formations.
Tarim Basin Edge
The stark transition from the high plateau to the arid, golden expanses of the Taklamakan Desert region.
Tien Shan Range
The majestic 'Celestial Mountains' come into view as you cross from China into Kazakhstan.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which illuminates the snow-capped peaks of Tibet and the Tien Shan without glare. High-altitude clarity is best in autumn and winter; in summer, afternoon clouds may obscure the lower valleys. Sit forward of the wing to capture unobstructed photos of the vast high-desert landscapes.
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Northern Thai Highlands
Lush green mountains and rolling hills visible shortly after departure from Bangkok.
Mekong River System
Catch glimpses of the mighty Mekong snaking through the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
Hengduan Mountains
The spectacular parallel ridges and deep canyons where the Tibetan Plateau meets the Sichuan basin.
Urumqi Distant View
Depending on the exact airway, you may see the industrial clusters of the Xinjiang region to the east.
Trans-Ili Alatau
A stunning close-up of the rugged mountains surrounding Almaty during the final descent and approach.
The right side is particularly rewarding during the descent into Almaty, as the aircraft often banks toward the mountains, providing an intimate view of the Trans-Ili Alatau range. If flying in the afternoon, be aware that the sun will be on this side, which can make it quite warm and create glare on the window. Use a polarized filter for photos to cut through atmospheric haze over the Mekong region.
Book Hotels in Alma-ataDistance: 4,000 km (2,485 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 42 min
Departure: BKK (13.681099891662598, 100.74700164794922)
Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Route Type: International
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