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CNX â KUL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chiang Mai International Airport (Chiang Mai) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Kuala Lumpur)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged Tenasserim Hills, the Andaman Sea coastline, and the stunning islands of Langkawi and Penang during the descent.
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Doi Suthep-Pui
The iconic mountain looming over Chiang Mai, often visible right after departure.
Tenasserim Range
Ancient, mist-covered limestone mountains marking the border between Thailand and Myanmar.
Andaman Coastline
Distant glimpses of the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Thai west coast.
Langkawi Archipelago
A stunning bird's-eye view of the 99 islands of Langkawi as you enter Malaysian airspace.
Penang Island
Excellent views of George Town, the Penang Hill, and the two massive bridges connecting the island to the mainland.
The right side is the 'scenic' winner, particularly for the island views of Langkawi and Penang. Choose an afternoon flight for the best lighting on the Andaman coast, but be aware of tropical haze in the dry season (Feb-April). The approach into KUL often provides a great view of the massive palm oil plantations that dominate the landscape.
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Chiang Mai Cityscape
Aerial view of the 'Rose of the North' and its historic moat immediately after takeoff.
Central Plains
Expansive views of the lush green rice paddies and the winding Chao Phraya River system.
Gulf of Thailand
Deep blue waters of the Gulf as the flight tracks down the eastern side of the Isthmus of Kra.
Songkhla Lake
The largest natural lake in Thailand, featuring unique coastal lagoons and wetlands.
Titiwangsa Mountains
The dense, jungle-clad mountain range that forms the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for seeing the inland geographic transition from Thai plains to Malaysian rainforests. During the final approach into KUL, you may see the Genting Highlands in the distance if the weather is clear.
Get eSIMs for Thailand
Get eSIMs for MalaysiaDistance: 1,806 km (1,122 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: CNX (18.7667999268, 98.962600708)
Arrival: KUL (2.7455799579619997, 101.70999908446998)
Route Type: International
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