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CIF destination photo
HLD destination photo

CIFHLD

Which side of the plane to sit from Chifeng Airport (Chifeng) to Dongshan Airport (Hailar)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most iconic views of the Hulunbuir Grasslands and the dramatic meandering Morigele River during the descent into Hailar.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌾

Arhorchin Grasslands

Expansive vistas of nomadic pasturelands and traditional Mongolian landscapes shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Greater Khingan Range

The rugged western slopes of China's premier northern mountain range, featuring dense pine and birch forests.

🌊

Morigele River

Known as the most crooked river in the world, its silver curls are clearly visible on the approach to Hailar.

🐄

Hulunbuir Steppe

The quintessential 'emerald ocean' scenery with scattered herds and white yurts dotting the plains.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Morigele River's famous bends during the final 15 minutes of the flight. For afternoon flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the lush green landscapes. In winter, this side showcases the 'Frozen Prairie' with stunning clarity.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏜️

Horqin Sandy Land

Observe the unique desertification control patterns and mixed sandy-grassland terrain in the early flight phase.

🌲

Forest Farm Valleys

View the eastern ridges of the Daxing'anling mountains, characterized by systematic state-owned forest blocks.

💧

Wulagai Basin

Occasional views of high-altitude wetlands and blue reservoirs reflecting the northern sky.

🚞

North-East Rail Artery

Track the heavy industrial rail lines that connect the inner grasslands to the Russian border regions.

The right side is preferable for early morning flights to enjoy the soft sunrise light hitting the mountains. It offers a better perspective of the transition from the sandy lands of Chifeng to the deep forests of the Khingan Range. Keep an eye out for the distinct grid-like patterns of reforestation projects.

Top Activities in Hailar
Route Information

Distance: 778 km (483 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min

Departure: CIF (42.23500061035156, 118.90799713134766)

Arrival: HLD (49.2050018311, 119.824996948)

Route Type: Domestic

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