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HGH destination photo
DNH destination photo

HGHDNH

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a breathtaking front-row seat to the snow-capped Qilian Mountains and the iconic Mingsha Shan sand dunes as you approach Dunhuang.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏙️

Qiantang River

Immediately after takeoff from HGH, enjoy views of the winding Qiantang River and Hangzhou's modern skyline.

⛰️

Qinling Mountain Range

Mid-flight views of the massive mountain range that serves as the natural boundary between North and South China.

🏔️

Qilian Mountains

The highlight of the trip, featuring a long stretch of majestic, snow-capped peaks along the Hexi Corridor.

🏜️

Mingsha Shan Dunes

Stunning golden sand dunes of the 'Singing Sands' mountain visible during the final descent into Dunhuang.

💧

Crescent Lake Area

Depending on the wind and approach path, the oasis greenery near the sand dunes can be spotted.

Sit on the left (Window A) for the best views of the Qilian Mountains. For morning flights, this side will be shaded, providing better photo opportunities without sun glare. Watch for the dramatic change from the lush greenery of Zhejiang to the stark, arid landscapes of Gansu about halfway through the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Yellow River Loops

Spot the iconic yellow silty waters of the Huanghe as it winds through the Loess Plateau.

🟫

Loess Plateau

Observe the unique, heavily eroded 'broken' landscape of the plateau across Shaanxi and eastern Gansu.

☀️

Dunhuang Solar Farms

Massive arrays of solar panels and glowing molten salt towers reflecting sunlight in the Gobi Desert.

🌵

Gobi Desert Expanse

Vast, desolate, and beautiful stretches of the black and grey stone desert characteristic of Northern Gansu.

The right side (Window F) is excellent for spotting the massive solar power installations near Dunhuang, which look like glowing cities in the desert. On afternoon flights, be prepared for significant sun glare as you head West/Northwest; keep your window shade partially down to protect your eyes while scanning for the Yellow River.

Top Activities in Dunhuang
Route Information

Distance: 2,565 km (1,594 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 25 min

Departure: HGH (30.22949981689453, 120.43399810791016)

Arrival: DNH (40.16109848022461, 94.80919647216795)

Route Type: Domestic

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