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CKG → CNX
Which side of the plane to sit from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (Chongqing) to Chiang Mai International Airport (Chiang Mai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the eastern Himalayan foothills and the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Hengduan Mountains in Yunnan, especially during the descent into Thailand.
Hengduan Mountains
Stunning vistas of high-altitude ridges and occasional snow-capped peaks to the west of the flight path.
Jinsha River Gorge
Deep canyons formed by the upper reaches of the Yangtze River winding through the mountainous terrain.
Dali & Cangshan Range
In the distance, the majestic Cangshan mountain range can be spotted on clear days as you pass western Yunnan.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Views of Thailand's highest mountain range appearing as you approach Chiang Mai from the north.
Chiang Mai Valley
A comprehensive view of the moat-encircled Old City and the sprawling urban valley during the final approach.
The right side is premier for sunset flights, offering golden hour views over the high mountains. During the dry season (Nov-Feb), the air is clearer, making the distant peaks of the Himalayas visible. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best shots of the Chiang Mai city layout.
Chongqing Skyline
Dramatic views of the dense urban skyscrapers at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers upon takeoff.
Guizhou Karst Landscapes
Unique limestone peak clusters and deep river valleys as the flight traverses the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.
Dian Lake
A massive freshwater lake near Kunming, visible as a vast turquoise expanse against the red Yunnan soil.
Mekong River (Lancang)
The winding path of the Upper Mekong cutting through the deep, lush gorges of southern Yunnan.
Northern Laos Jungles
Expansive stretches of dense tropical rainforest and mist-covered hills as you cross the border into Thailand.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides a better view of the massive Dian Lake and the industrial geography of the Kunming basin. Look out for the karst formations about 30-40 minutes after departure.
Distance: 1,444 km (897 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: CKG (29.719200134277344, 106.64199829101562)
Arrival: CNX (18.7667999268, 98.962600708)
Route Type: International
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