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GIU → CMB
Which side of the plane to sit from Sigiriya Air Force Base (Sigiriya) to Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (Colombo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Pidurangala immediately after departure, followed by scenic vistas of the central mountain fringes.
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Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Get a bird's-eye view of the ancient 'Lion Rock' and its surrounding water gardens right after takeoff.
Pidurangala Rock
The neighboring monastic peak offers a rugged contrast to the manicured gardens of Sigiriya.
Kandalama Reservoir
The vast, tranquil waters of Kandalama and the iconic architecture of the Heritance Kandalama hotel.
Central Highland Foothills
Distant views of the Matale hills and the mist-covered Knuckles Mountain Range to the southeast.
Minneriya National Park
Aerial views of dense elephant corridors and lush forest canopies early in the flight.
Sit on the left for the most direct view of Sigiriya Rock shortly after departure from GIU. Morning flights offer the best lighting for photography without the haze that often builds up by the afternoon. Keep your camera ready as the climb out of Sigiriya is short and scenic.
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Dambulla Cave Temple
Look for the Golden Buddha statue and the massive rock outcrop housing the historic cave temples.
Kurunegala Elephant Rock
As you head west, watch for the unique 'Ethagala' rock formation that resembles a kneeling elephant.
Ibbankatuwa Reservoir
A large ancient man-made lake that glimmers under the tropical sun during midday flights.
Negombo Lagoon
As the plane descends into CMB, enjoy views of the sprawling lagoon dotted with traditional outrigger canoes.
Indian Ocean Coastline
Depending on the landing pattern, catch the blue expanse of the sea as you turn toward the runway.
The right side is excellent for sunset flights, as you will see the sun dipping toward the Indian Ocean during the approach to CMB. It is also the better side for viewing the diverse tank systems (wewas) that define the North Western Province's agricultural landscape.
Book Hotels in ColomboDistance: 127 km (79 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 min
Departure: GIU (7.956669807430002, 80.7285003662)
Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)
Route Type: Domestic
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