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HLD destination photo
PEK destination photo

HLDPEK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the sprawling Inner Mongolian steppes, the volcanic landscapes near Arxan, and a more dramatic perspective of the Yan Mountains during the descent into Beijing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🐎

Xilingol Steppe

Expansive vistas of the Mongolian plateau, offering a sense of immense scale and isolation.

🌋

Arxan Volcanic Field

Potentially visible crater lakes and unique geological formations if the flight path tracks slightly west.

🌬️

Ulanqab Wind Farms

Massive arrays of white wind turbines dotting the plateau, representing Inner Mongolia's green energy hub.

⛰️

Yan Mountains Peaks

Dramatic, jagged rock formations and steep valleys as the aircraft crosses the mountain barrier into the Beijing basin.

🏙️

Beijing City Panorama

Depending on the wind direction and runway usage, you may get a sweeping view of the Olympic Green and the city's tall skyline.

The right side is ideal for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights, casting long shadows over the grasslands. It offers the most consistent 'big sky' views typical of Inner Mongolia. Keep your camera ready as you cross the mountain range north of Beijing, as the terrain transition is abrupt and visually stunning. Use a polarizing filter if possible to cut through the frequent atmospheric haze over the North China Plain.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌿

Hulunbuir Grasslands

Vast, undulating emerald plains that stretch to the horizon, dotted with grazing livestock and winding river systems.

🌲

Greater Khingan Mountains

The eastern slopes of this significant mountain range, featuring dense birch and larch forests.

💧

Miyun Reservoir

The largest reservoir in North China, appearing as a deep blue jewel amidst the mountains north of Beijing.

🏯

Gubeikou Great Wall

Visible as a thin, snaking line along the mountain ridges during the final descent phase into PEK.

Sit on the left for the best chance to spot the Great Wall and the Miyun Reservoir during the approach. For morning flights, this side will be shaded, providing better conditions for photography without glare. Watch for the change from the flat grasslands to the rugged peaks of the Yan Mountains about 40 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 1,046 km (650 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: HLD (49.2050018311, 119.824996948)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: Domestic

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