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NAY destination photo

HLDNAY

Which side of the plane to sit from Dongshan Airport (Hailar) to Beijing Nanyuan Airport (Beijing)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an expansive view of the world-famous Hulunbuir grasslands and the dramatic descent from the Mongolian Plateau over the rugged Yan Mountains into the North China Plain.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🍃

Hulunbuir Steppe

Endless stretches of pristine grasslands, dotted with nomadic settlements and herds of livestock visible in clear weather.

🌋

Arxan Volcanic Landforms

Unique geological formations including extinct volcanic cones and crater lakes near the western flight path.

🐎

Xilin Gol Plateau

The high-altitude plateau landscape featuring vast grazing lands and seasonal salt lakes.

⛰️

Yan Mountain Range

The rugged, rocky peaks that form a natural barrier north of Beijing, often revealing sections of the Great Wall on high ridges.

💧

Miyun Reservoir

A massive water body serving as Beijing's primary water source, visible during the final descent into the city.

The right side is superior for sunset flights, offering a spectacular golden hour over the Mongolian Plateau. Look for the sharp contrast between the flat grasslands and the jagged Yan Mountains about 30-40 minutes before landing. If visibility is high, you can spot the Great Wall snaking along the mountain crests.

Left Side Highlights
7.6
🌊

Hulun Lake

One of the largest freshwater lakes in China, appearing as a massive blue gem against the green steppe shortly after takeoff.

🌲

Greater Khingan Mountains

Dense forest coverage and rolling ridges of the Daxing'anling range, particularly vibrant with autumn gold or winter snow.

🐍

Liao River Headwaters

The intricate, winding patterns of river tributaries carving through the landscape near the border of Inner Mongolia and Hebei.

🏗️

Beijing Northern Suburbs

Dense urban clusters and the industrial transition as the flight approaches the capital's metropolitan area.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the softest light reflecting off Hulun Lake. During winter, this side offers the best views of the snow-dusted forest ridges of the Greater Khingan range. Keep an eye out for the silver threads of the Liao River system about halfway through the journey.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 1,082 km (672 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: HLD (49.2050018311, 119.824996948)

Arrival: NAY (39.78279876708984, 116.38800048828124)

Route Type: Domestic

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