Loading map...

HGH destination photo
LHW destination photo

HGHLHW

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a dramatic transition from the lush landscapes of Eastern China to the formidable Qinling Mountain range and the distinct terraced terrain of the Loess Plateau.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Dabie Mountains

View the rolling, forested peaks of Anhui province during the initial cruise phase.

🏔️

Qinling Range

The massive geological divide between North and South China, featuring snow-capped peaks in winter.

💧

Danjiangkou Reservoir

A massive turquoise water body visible to the south depending on the specific airway used.

🚜

Wei River Valley

Observation of the historical agricultural heartland leading towards the ancient city of Xi'an.

🏜️

Gansu Terraces

Intricate and ancient farming terraces carved into the yellow earth of the Loess Plateau.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare. The highlight is the Qinling Mountains; look for them approximately midway through the flight. During winter, the contrast between the snow and the yellow loess soil is visually stunning.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Hangzhou Cityscape

Panoramic views of the Qiantang River and West Lake immediately after takeoff from HGH.

🌊

Yellow River Bends

Catch glimpses of the iconic 'Mother River' as it snakes through the northern plains and plateau.

📉

Loess Erosion

Unique geological patterns showing thousands of years of wind and water erosion on the plateau.

🏢

Central Plains Cities

Aerial views of major urban hubs like Zhengzhou and the surrounding industrial landscape.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights to catch the 'Golden Hour' lighting up the yellow earth. Look for the Yellow River about 40 minutes before landing in Lanzhou. Keep your camera ready during takeoff for views of Hangzhou's rapid urban expansion.

Top Activities in Lanzhou
Route Information

Distance: 1,707 km (1,061 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 17 min

Departure: HGH (30.22949981689453, 120.43399810791016)

Arrival: LHW (36.5152015686, 103.620002747)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.