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HFE destination photo
KWL destination photo

HFE → KWL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the iconic limestone Karst mountains during the descent into Guilin and a clear sightline to the sacred Mount Heng in Hunan.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
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Dabie Mountains

A rugged mountain range visible to the west shortly after taking off from Hefei.

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Mount Heng (Hengshan)

One of the Five Great Mountains of China, recognizable by its sharp peaks in central Hunan province.

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Changsha Urban Area

Distances views of the expanding skyline and bridges of the Hunan provincial capital.

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Guilin Karst Forest

The world-famous 'Forest of Peaks' appears during the final 20 minutes of the flight, offering alien-like landscapes.

The descent into Guilin is the undisputed highlight; the right side typically provides the best angle for the limestone peak forests. For late afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses, but the golden hour light creates deep shadows that emphasize the texture of the Karst hills. Watch for the Xiang River winding through the Hunan plains mid-flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
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Yangtze River Crossing

View the massive Yangtze River snaking through the Anqing region shortly after departure.

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Mount Lu (Lu Shan)

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic cliffs and frequent 'sea of clouds' effect.

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Poyang Lake

The largest freshwater lake in China, featuring vast wetlands and intricate seasonal water patterns.

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Nanling Mountains

Dense, green mountain ranges that mark the geographic transition into South China.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the Yangtze and Poyang Lake. During the winter months, the wetlands of Poyang Lake are particularly distinct as water levels drop, revealing unique land formations. This side is better for seeing the industrial and natural blend of the middle Yangtze region.

Top Activities in Guilin
Route Information

Distance: 1,017 km (632 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: HFE (31.78000068664551, 117.2979965209961)

Arrival: KWL (25.21809959411621, 110.03900146484376)

Route Type: Domestic

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