Loading map...
CEI → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Chiang Rai International Airport (Chiang Rai) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the massive Dianchi Lake and the Kunming urban skyline during the descent, along with the rolling tea-growing hills of Southern Yunnan.
Search flights from CEI to KMG
Pu'er Tea Plantations
Terraced hillsides famous for Pu'er tea production, creating unique geometric landscape patterns.
Red River Valley
The winding path of the Yuan River carving through the red earth of the plateau.
Dianchi Lake
A massive freshwater lake known as the 'Sparkling Pearl of the Plateau' located south of Kunming.
Kunming Cityscape
Aerial view of the 'Spring City' sprawl and its surrounding modern infrastructure upon final approach.
This side is essential for viewing Dianchi Lake, the highlight of the trip. Morning flights are best to see the lake's blue waters clearly before clouds often develop in the afternoon.
Book Hotels in Kunming
Doi Mae Salong
The rugged, mist-covered mountain peaks of Northern Thailand near the border area.
Mekong River Gorges
Deep river valleys where the Mekong (Lancang) carves through the high plateau.
Xishuangbanna Highlands
Densely forested tropical mountains as you cross into the Yunnan province of China.
Lancang Valley
Dramatic views of the steep canyons and limestone formations of the upper Mekong basin.
Choose this side for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. Look early for the 'Golden Triangle' junction where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge.
Get eSIMs for Thailand
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 652 km (405 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: CEI (19.952299118, 99.8828964233)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.