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CTU → XIC
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Xichang Qingshan Airport (Xichang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point of the high-altitude peaks of the Hengduan Mountains, including distant views of the Gongga Shan massif and dramatic river canyons.
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Gongga Mountain (Minya Konka)
On clear days, the 'King of Sichuan Mountains' is visible in the far distance to the west.
Dadu River Canyon
Breathtaking views of deep, narrow gorges carved into the landscape by the powerful Dadu River.
Daliang Mountains
Rugged, high-altitude terrain with dramatic ridges and deep valleys characteristic of southern Sichuan.
Qionghai Lake
A stunning large freshwater lake adjacent to Xichang city, visible during the final descent.
Satellite Launch Region
The mountainous valleys north of Xichang that house China's famous satellite launch facilities.
For the best chance to see the snow-capped Gongga massif, choose an early morning flight when the air is clearest. The descent into Xichang is particularly scenic on this side as the plane maneuvers over Qionghai Lake. Sit away from the wing (rows 1-8 or 20+) for unobstructed views of the deep canyons.
Book Hotels in XichangMount Emei
One of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, featuring steep cliffs and lush greenery.
Wawu Mountain
A unique, massive flat-topped table mountain often surrounded by a sea of clouds.
Leshan Outskirts
The transition zone from the flat Sichuan Basin into the rugged southern highlands.
Anning River Valley
The fertile agricultural valley that leads directly into the Xichang basin area.
The left side is best for morning flights to avoid direct glare. Keep a close eye out about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the distinctive 'table' shape of Wawu Mountain. If landing from the north, you will see the eastern edge of the city and the surrounding agricultural terraces.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 335 km (208 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 34 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: XIC (27.98909950256348, 102.18399810791016)
Route Type: Domestic
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