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ERL destination photo
PEK destination photo

ERLPEK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the dramatic transition from the arid Inner Mongolian plateau to the rugged Yin and Yan mountain ranges, including iconic glimpses of the Great Wall and major reservoirs during the descent into the capital.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Gobi Desert Edges

The stark, arid beauty of the southern Gobi's fringes, featuring unique geological formations and vast empty spaces.

🏔️

Yin Mountains

Rugged mountain peaks that form a natural barrier between the high plateau and the Beijing basin.

🧱

The Great Wall

Iconic segments of the Ming Dynasty wall, such as Badaling, can often be spotted snaking along mountain ridges during descent.

🌊

Guanting Reservoir

A stunning blue expanse of water nestled between the mountains, often used as a waypoint for flights entering Beijing airspace.

🏟️

Olympic Park

On clear days during the final approach, the Bird's Nest and Water Cube are visible towards the city center.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct glare while seeing the mountains in high relief. Keep your eyes peeled as the plane descends through the Yan Mountains; the Great Wall is small but distinct on the mountain crests. This side also offers the best chance to see the sunset over the Western Hills.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

Xilingol Grasslands

Expansive views of the rolling green steppes and nomadic landscapes of central Inner Mongolia shortly after takeoff.

💧

Miyun Reservoir

A massive freshwater lake visible to the northeast of Beijing, surrounded by lush forested hills.

🏙️

Tongzhou District

The rapidly developing secondary center of Beijing, showcasing modern urban planning and new skyscrapers.

Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the soft sunrise light over the grasslands. As the plane approaches PEK from the north, this side provides a clearer view of the vast North China Plain and the eastern urban sprawl of the capital.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 526 km (327 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 53 min

Departure: ERL (43.4225, 112.096667)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: Domestic

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