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CGK destination photo
BTJ destination photo

CGKBTJ

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Bukit Barisan mountain range, featuring some of Indonesia's highest volcanoes and the stunning expanse of the Indian Ocean coastline.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌋

Mount Kerinci

The highest volcano in Indonesia, standing at 3,805 meters, often visible poking through the clouds.

🏞️

Lake Toba

The world's largest volcanic lake, appearing as a massive blue caldera with Samosir Island in its center.

🌊

Indian Ocean Coastline

Dramatic views where the rugged Bukit Barisan mountains meet the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

🏙️

Padang Coast

A bird's-eye view of the West Sumatran capital and the surrounding coral-fringed islands.

⛰️

Mount Sinabung

An active stratovolcano known for its frequent and photogenic ash plumes.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. The most spectacular mountain views occur roughly 60 to 90 minutes after takeoff from Jakarta. Keep your camera ready as you pass over North Sumatra for the iconic view of Lake Toba's western edge.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🚢

Strait of Malacca

One of the world's busiest shipping lanes, filled with giant cargo ships and tankers.

🛶

Sumatran River Deltas

Intricate networks of brown rivers winding through dense green palm plantations and mangroves.

🌆

Medan Cityscape

The sprawling urban landscape of North Sumatra's capital as you fly north toward Aceh.

🏝️

Pulau Weh

On the final approach to BTJ, you can often spot the northernmost tip of Indonesia across the bay.

🌅

Sunrise Views

On early morning flights, this side receives the golden morning light over the Java Sea and Malacca Strait.

The right side is ideal for morning flights if you enjoy watching the sunrise over the sea. While the terrain is flatter than the left, the industrial and maritime activity in the Strait of Malacca is fascinating. During the final descent into Banda Aceh, look for the scenic coastline of the Aceh province.

Top Activities in Banda Aceh
Route Information

Distance: 1,798 km (1,117 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: CGK (-6.1255698204, 106.65599823)

Arrival: BTJ (5.5228720240100015, 95.42063713070002)

Route Type: Domestic

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