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CMB → IXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (Colombo) to Madurai Airport (Madurai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides a superior vantage point for the turquoise waters of the Palk Strait and an excellent view of the Indian coastline, specifically Rameswaram and the Pamban Bridge, before descending into Madurai.
Search flights from CMB to IXM
Negombo Lagoon
Aerial view of the vast lagoon and fishing boats immediately after takeoff from CMB.
Palk Bay
Clear turquoise waters and shallow sandbanks separating Sri Lanka and India.
Pamban Bridge
The historic railway bridge connecting mainland India to Rameswaram Island.
Ramanathaswamy Temple
The massive temple complex of Rameswaram visible on the coast.
Madurai Urban Sprawl
A dense view of the ancient city as the plane aligns for the runway at IXM.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Choose a morning flight (around 08:00 - 10:00) to have the sun behind you, which enhances the vibrant blues of the Gulf of Mannar and prevents glare on the window.
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Mannar Island
The long, sandy stretches of northern Sri Lanka's coast and its unique vegetation.
Adam's Bridge
The chain of limestone shoals, also known as Rama Setu, connecting the two nations.
Tamil Nadu Plains
Lush green agricultural fields and coconut groves upon entering Indian airspace.
Vaigai River
The seasonal river winding through the landscape toward Madurai.
Pasumalai Hill
Small rocky outcrops and hills that characterize the Madurai outskirts.
The right side is ideal for spotting the geological wonder of Adam's Bridge. For the best clarity, fly during the post-monsoon months (January to March) when the atmosphere is clearest and the landscape of Tamil Nadu is most vibrant.
Book Hotels in MaduraiDistance: 355 km (221 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)
Arrival: IXM (9.83450984955, 78.09339904790002)
Route Type: International
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