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DMB destination photo
ALA destination photo

DMB β†’ ALA

Which side of the plane to sit from Taraz Airport (Dzhambul) to Almaty Airport (Alma-ata)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular, continuous view of the snow-capped Tian Shan mountain range throughout the short flight.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
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Tian Shan Peaks

The massive, snow-covered peaks of the 'Celestial Mountains' dominating the southern horizon.

🌲

Trans-Ili Alatau

The rugged northernmost range of the Tian Shan, featuring deep gorges and alpine forests.

🧊

Eternal Glaciers

High-altitude glaciers visible near the summits, even during the peak of the Kazakh summer.

⛸️

Medeu & Shymbulak

The famous high-altitude ice rink and ski resort tucked into the mountainside during the descent into ALA.

πŸ‡°πŸ‡¬

Kyrgyz Border Ridges

The mountain crests that serve as the natural border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Sit on the right for the best photos of the mountains. Morning flights provide incredible front-lighting on the peaks. Ask for a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the 4,000m+ summits remains unobstructed. During winter, the entire landscape is a stunning blanket of white.

Left Side Highlights
4.5
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Taraz Cityscape

Bird's-eye view of the ancient city's urban layout and the Talas River shortly after departure.

🌊

Chu River Meanders

The winding path of the Chu River as it flows through the arid plains of the Jambyl region.

🌾

The Golden Steppe

Vast expanses of Kazakh steppe stretching north toward the Betpak-Dala desert.

πŸ’§

Kapshagay Reservoir

A glimpse of the massive man-made lake to the north of Almaty during the final approach phase.

Choose this side if you want to avoid direct sunlight during midday flights. It is also better for sunset views when flying from West to East, as the sky will transition through deep purples and oranges away from the sun.

Top Activities in Alma-ata
Route Information

Distance: 469 km (291 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 47 min

Departure: DMB (42.85359954833984, 71.30359649658203)

Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)

Route Type: Domestic

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