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CNX → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Chiang Mai International Airport (Chiang Mai) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the iconic Mekong River bends and the stunning high-altitude lakes of Yunnan, including Dianchi and Fuxian, which are highlights during the descent into Kunming.
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Mekong River (Lancang Jiang)
Stunning views of the 'Mother of Rivers' as it snakes through the emerald-green mountains of Xishuangbanna.
Xishuangbanna Tropical Forest
Lush, dense canopy cover of China's primary tropical rainforest zone near the southern Yunnan border.
Fuxian Lake
One of China's deepest freshwater lakes, known for its remarkably clear blue water, visible shortly before landing.
Dianchi Lake (Dian Lake)
The massive 'Sparkling Pearl of the Plateau' situated right next to Kunming, offering a spectacular vista on descent.
The right side is essential for seeing the great lakes of Yunnan. As the plane descends into KMG, the vast expanse of Dianchi Lake provides a perfect backdrop for photos. For morning flights, this side will be very bright, so high-quality sunglasses are recommended to combat the intense high-altitude glare.
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Shan Plateau Edge
Rugged limestone ridges and deep valleys marking the transition between Thailand, Myanmar, and China.
Salween River (Nu Jiang)
Glimpses of the wild, undammed Nu River carved deeply into the steep canyons of western Yunnan.
Gaoligong Mountain Range
View the dramatic peaks that form the divide between the Salween and Irrawaddy watersheds.
West Kunming Urban Sprawl
The expanding high-rise residential districts and industrial zones of western Kunming during final approach.
Sit on the left for dramatic sunset views during late afternoon flights. Keep an eye out for the deep, narrow gorges of the Nu River, which are best seen from high altitudes under clear skies. Clouds often gather on the windward side of these peaks, so morning flights are generally clearer.
Get eSIMs for Thailand
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 814 km (506 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: CNX (18.7667999268, 98.962600708)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: International
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