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IKA → KBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran) to Hamid Karzai International Airport (Kabul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the towering Alborz mountains upon departure and the majestic, snow-capped Hindu Kush during the approach to Kabul.
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Mount Damavand
The iconic, conical peak of Iran's highest mountain is visible to the north shortly after takeoff from Tehran.
Kavir National Park
The northern edge of the Great Salt Desert showcasing vast, cracked salt flats and arid plateaus.
Mashhad Metropolis
Glimpses of Iran's second-largest city and the vast complex surrounding the Imam Reza Shrine.
Hindu Kush Peaks
Dramatic, high-altitude mountain ranges with jagged ridges that define the Afghan landscape.
Paghman Mountains
The rugged mountains surrounding the Kabul basin, providing a scenic backdrop during the final descent.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare while looking toward the northern mountain ranges. Keep an eye out early in the flight for Mount Damavand, and expect the most dramatic scenery during the final 45 minutes as the aircraft crosses into Afghan airspace over the Hindu Kush. Winter flights offer the most stunning views of snow-covered peaks.
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Namak Lake
A striking white salt lake south of the flight path that contrasts sharply with the surrounding red earth.
Rig-e Jenn Dunes
The 'Dunes of the Genies' area in the Dasht-e Kavir, known for its massive and shifting sand formations.
Herat City
The ancient city of Herat may be visible near the border, featuring historic architecture and green oases.
Central Highlands
Deeply eroded valleys and ancient agricultural terraces in the Ghor and Bamyan provinces.
Kabul River Valley
The winding river path and the sprawling urban landscape of Kabul as the plane aligns with the runway.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights, as the setting sun illuminates the desert textures and salt flats of eastern Iran. Look for the ancient 'Qanat' irrigation systems—small circular mounds in the desert—near the Iran-Afghanistan border. This side also offers a wider view of the sprawling Kabul city during the landing pattern.
Book Hotels in KabulDistance: 1,646 km (1,023 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Arrival: KBL (34.565899, 69.212303)
Route Type: International
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