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DMM destination photo
CMB destination photo

DMMCMB

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the glittering coastlines of the UAE and Oman, the lush greenery of the Western Ghats in India, and a scenic approach into the Negombo region of Sri Lanka.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

UAE Coastline

Clear views of the urban sprawl and architectural landmarks of Abu Dhabi and Dubai as you depart the Gulf.

⛰️

Al Hajar Mountains

The dramatic, rocky terrain of northern Oman featuring deep canyons and sharp mountain ridges.

🌊

Gulf of Oman

The transition from the desert landscape into the vast expanse of the northern Arabian Sea.

🌴

Kerala Coastline

Vibrant green landscapes and the famous backwaters of southern India during the subcontinental crossing.

🚤

Negombo Lagoon

Picturesque views of the lagoon and traditional fishing outriggers during the final approach to Colombo.

On morning flights, the left side avoids direct sunlight, preventing glare and cabin heat. It is particularly good for seeing the Indian coastline around the 3.5 to 4-hour mark. During monsoon season (May-September), watch for massive cloud formations over the Western Ghats.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

Empty Quarter

The northern fringes of the Rub' al Khali, showing endless waves of reddish-orange sand dunes.

🛳️

Shipping Lanes

Heavy maritime traffic including oil tankers and cargo vessels navigating the Arabian Sea trade routes.

🏝️

Lakshadweep Atolls

Tiny coral islands and turquoise reefs visible in the Laccadive Sea if the flight path tracks south.

📍

Cape Comorin

The southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent where three major bodies of water converge.

🌅

Indian Ocean Horizon

Unobstructed views of the horizon, ideal for viewing the sunrise on overnight flights.

The right side is ideal for night flights to observe the dense clusters of lights from coastal Indian towns. If flying in the late afternoon, this side offers a spectacular sunset over the open ocean just before landing in Sri Lanka.

Top Activities in Colombo
Route Information

Distance: 3,835 km (2,383 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 31 min

Departure: DMM (26.471200942993164, 49.79790115356445)

Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)

Route Type: International

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