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FRU → ULN
Which side of the plane to sit from Manas International Airport (Bishkek) to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (Ulan Bator)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the high-altitude Tien Shan mountains to the vast, arid beauty of the Gobi Desert, including a rare aerial view of the massive Issyk-Kul Lake.
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Tien Shan Mountains
Dramatic, snow-capped 'Celestial Mountains' rising sharply immediately after takeoff from Bishkek.
Issyk-Kul Lake
The 'Pearl of Kyrgyzstan,' a massive turquoise alpine lake that never freezes, framed by jagged peaks.
Khan Tengri
The iconic 7,000m marble pyramid peak visible on the horizon near the border with China.
Gobi Desert
The landscape transforms into striking orange sands and black rocky outcrops as you enter southern Mongolia.
Mongolian Highlands
Lush green rolling hills dotted with white nomadic ger camps during the final approach to Ulaanbaatar.
Sit on the right side for the most spectacular views. About 15–20 minutes after takeoff from Bishkek, look south to see the entire span of Lake Issyk-Kul. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the afternoon sun, which can be intense over the desert. Ensure you have your camera ready during the first 45 minutes and the final 20 minutes of the flight.
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Kazakh Steppe
Infinite horizons of the world's largest dry steppe region, stretching across southern Kazakhstan.
Lake Balkhash
If the flight path stays north, you may spot the distinctive crescent shape of this massive endorheic lake.
Altai Northern Slopes
Distant views of the rugged ridges where the borders of Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia converge.
Zhezqazghan Vistas
Aerial perspectives of remote industrial outposts and mining operations in the central Asian heartland.
The left side is best for those who enjoy the minimalism of the steppe. For summer flights, this side remains cooler as it is shielded from the direct southern sun. It offers a unique sense of scale regarding the emptiness of the Eurasian interior.
Get eSIMs for Kyrgyzstan
Get eSIMs for MongoliaDistance: 2,554 km (1,587 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 24 min
Departure: FRU (43.0612983704, 74.4776000977)
Arrival: ULN (47.843102, 106.766998)
Route Type: International
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