Loading map...
CTU → XNN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu) to Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the dramatic ascent from the Sichuan Basin into the high-altitude eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, featuring the Siguniang mountain range and the vast Ruoergai wetlands.
Search flights from CTU to XNN
Mount Siguniang
The 'Four Sisters Mountain' towers above the Qionglai range, offering spectacular snow-capped peaks shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Ruoergai Grasslands
View the 'Oasis of the Plateau,' a massive high-altitude wetland and meadow system that turns vibrant green in summer months.
First Bend of Yellow River
On clear days, the iconic winding curves of the Yellow River near Tangke are visible as the plane traverses the Gannan border.
Plateau Transition
Witness the dramatic geological shift from the lush Sichuan Basin to the high-altitude, arid Tibetan Plateau landscape.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you for the best photography of the mountain ranges. Avoid seats over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Yellow River's meandering path. In winter, this side offers the most consistent views of snow-covered peaks.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for China
Longmen Mountains
The sharp tectonic boundary that separates the flat Sichuan Basin from the rugged highland regions.
Minshan Range
Glimpse the jagged peaks of the Min Mountains, including the 5,588m Xuebaoding peak, often visible through the clouds.
Jiuzhaigou Fringe
The flight path passes near the outskirts of the Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong regions, showcasing deep valleys and alpine forests.
Huangshui River Valley
During descent, enjoy the unique loess topography and the narrowing river valley as you approach Xining.
This side is excellent for afternoon flights to see the sun set over the distant mountains during the approach to Xining. Look out for the 'terraced' look of the Loess Plateau as you descend; the contrast in soil color is particularly striking in the autumn.
Book Hotels in XiningDistance: 685 km (426 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min
Departure: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Arrival: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.