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CTU → KRL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Korla Airport (Korla)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the lush Sichuan mountains to the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau and finally the vast, golden dunes of the Tarim Basin.
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Mount Gongga (Distant)
Early in the flight, look south to spot the 'King of Sichuan Mountains' towering above the clouds.
Qinghai Plateau
A mesmerizing landscape of high-altitude tundra, frozen lakes, and scattered nomadic settlements.
Altun Mountains
The rugged, desolate range that marks the boundary between the high plateau and the northern deserts.
Taklamakan Edge
Spectacular views of the golden sand dunes of the Tarim Basin as the plane descends into Korla.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the plateau's transition. Morning flights are ideal as the rising sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains, though afternoon flights provide dramatic shadows over the desert dunes. Be prepared for some turbulence when crossing the mountain ranges.
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Min Mountains
Lush, green folded ridges that characterize the northern exit from the Sichuan Basin.
Qilian Mountains
Massive, snow-capped peaks that flank the Hexi Corridor, offering a stunning white horizon.
Gobi Wastelands
Stark, multicolored rock formations and vast stony plains that contrast with the snowy peaks.
Tian Shan Spurs
The eastern edges of the 'Celestial Mountains' come into view as you approach the Xinjiang region.
The right side is excellent for viewing the Qilian range in the middle of the flight. In summer, the right side stays cooler as it faces away from the direct southern sun. Keep your camera ready for the contrast between the dark mountain rock and the bright white glaciers in the Qilian range.
Book Hotels in KorlaDistance: 2,015 km (1,252 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: KRL (41.69779968261719, 86.12889862060547)
Route Type: Domestic
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