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CKG destination photo
KMG destination photo

CKGKMG

Our Recommendation
8.6

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic geological transition from the Sichuan Basin into the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, featuring the vibrant red soils of Dongchuan and more rugged mountain vistas.

Right Side Highlights
8.6
⛰️

Dalou Mountains

Fly over the rugged natural border between the Chongqing basin and the high-altitude plateaus to the south.

🔴

Dongchuan Red Lands

As the plane descends toward Kunming, look for the iconic 'God's Palette' - a patchwork of vibrant red soil and green crops.

🌊

Jinsha River Tributaries

Observe the deep, steep-walled valleys carved by the northern tributaries of the upper Yangtze/Jinsha river system.

🏙️

Kunming Northern Outskirts

See the rapid urbanization of the Kunming plateau surrounded by high mountains as you approach for landing.

The right side is the 'gold standard' for this route, specifically for the Dongchuan Red Lands which are usually visible about 15-20 minutes before landing. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight (after 3:00 PM) when the sun illuminates the red soil, but be prepared for some glare if the flight is very late in the day. Window seats ahead of or behind the wing are crucial for an unobstructed view of the terrain.

Left Side Highlights
8.1
🌊

Yangtze River Bend

Witness the massive Yangtze River winding through the mountainous terrain as you depart the Chongqing metropolitan area.

🌫️

Guizhou Karst Peaks

Enjoy views of the endless, cone-shaped limestone hills that define the unique Karst landscape of northern Guizhou.

⛰️

Wujiang River Canyon

Look down into the deep limestone gorges and see the emerald-colored waters of the Wujiang River cutting through the plateau.

🌤️

Plateau Cloudscapes

The rising altitude often creates dramatic sea-of-cloud effects over the jagged peaks of the eastern Yunnan border.

Choose the left side for morning flights (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides a softer light that highlights the textures of the Karst hills. It is also the better side for spotting the Wujiang River's deep canyons during the middle phase of the flight.

Top Activities in Kunming
Route Information

Distance: 631 km (392 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min

Departure: CKG (29.719200134277344, 106.64199829101562)

Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)

Route Type: Domestic

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