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GOJ destination photo
LBD destination photo

GOJLBD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Samara Bend of the Volga, the stark landscapes of the Aral Sea basin, and the spectacular Fann Mountains during the descent into Khudzhand.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
➰

Samara Bend

The iconic 180-degree turn of the Volga River, a major geographic landmark in European Russia.

🏜️

Aral Sea Basin

Aerial view of the environmental remnants and the expanding Aralkum Desert where the sea once stood.

🐫

Kyzylkum Desert

Mesmerizing red sand dunes and dry riverbeds stretching across Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

🐍

Syr Darya River

The winding 'Jaxartes' river which the flight follows closely as it nears the Fergana Valley.

🏔️

Fann Mountains

Stunning, sharp-edged peaks and turquoise alpine lakes visible to the south during the final approach.

The right side is essential for seeing the most significant landmarks like the Aral Sea. During afternoon flights, be prepared for strong sunlight; however, the sunset over the desert is world-class. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to see the Fann Mountains during descent.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Nizhny Novgorod Skyline

Panoramic views of the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers shortly after takeoff.

🌾

Kazakh Steppe

Infinite horizons of the Central Asian plains, characterized by unique geological patterns.

💧

Lake Shalkar

A large, shimmering saline lake in northwestern Kazakhstan that stands out against the arid soil.

⛰️

Kurama Range

Rugged, snow-dusted peaks of the Western Tien Shan visible to the northeast of the flight path.

🌊

Kayrakkum Reservoir

Known as the 'Tajik Sea,' this massive artificial lake provides a brilliant blue contrast near Khudzhand.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights. This side is better for observing the vastness of the Eurasian steppe and the distant high-altitude ranges of Kyrgyzstan. Look for the transition from Russian forest-steppes to the true arid deserts of the south.

Top Activities in Khudzhand
Route Information

Distance: 2,590 km (1,609 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 27 min

Departure: GOJ (56.23009872436499, 43.784000396729)

Arrival: LBD (40.21540069580078, 69.6947021484375)

Route Type: International

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