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HRB destination photo
SVX destination photo

HRBSVX

Which side of the plane to sit from Taiping Airport (Harbin) to Koltsovo Airport (Yekaterinburg)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is superior for this trans-Siberian journey, offering a prime view of Lake Baikal—the world's deepest lake—and spectacular crossings of the Great Siberian Rivers.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌲

Greater Khingan Range

Densely forested volcanic mountain range in Northeast China.

🌊

Lake Baikal

The crown jewel of the route; a massive, deep blue crescent visible for a significant duration.

🛶

Angara River

The powerful, clear river flowing out of Baikal towards the Yenisey.

🏢

Krasnoyarsk & Yenisey

A dramatic view of the industrial city divided by one of the world's largest river systems.

💧

Ob River Meanders

Stunning fractal-like patterns of the Ob River as it winds through the taiga.

⛰️

Central Ural Peaks

The ancient, weathered peaks of the Ural Mountains during the descent into Yekaterinburg.

Lake Baikal usually appears approximately 2 to 2.5 hours after departure from Harbin; keep your window shade up as the contrast between the deep water and surrounding mountains is breathtaking. This side is also better for photography during daytime flights as the sun remains to the south. In winter, the frozen Baikal creates incredible geometric ice patterns visible even from 35,000 feet.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🐎

Hulunbuir Grasslands

Vast, undulating green steppes of Inner Mongolia, dotted with seasonal lakes.

🏔️

Eastern Sayan Mountains

Rugged, snow-capped peaks along the Russian-Mongolian border area.

🏙️

Novosibirsk

The sprawling urban expanse of Siberia's largest city and its massive rail yards.

🌾

Irtysh River Plains

Expansive agricultural patterns and wetlands stretching across the West Siberian Plain.

🌇

Omsk Cityscape

Clear views of the urban center at the confluence of the Om and Irtysh rivers.

🗻

Southern Ural Foothills

The gradual rise of the terrain as the flight approaches the boundary of Europe.

The left side is best for witnessing the scale of Siberian urbanization and the Trans-Siberian railway corridor. If flying during the afternoon, be aware that the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare. In winter, look for the distinct industrial steam plumes rising from cities like Novosibirsk and Omsk, which help identify landmarks from high altitude.

Top Activities in Yekaterinburg
Route Information

Distance: 4,536 km (2,819 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 20 min

Departure: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)

Arrival: SVX (56.743099212646, 60.802700042725)

Route Type: International

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