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IKT destination photo
ULK destination photo

IKTULK

Which side of the plane to sit from Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk) to Lensk Airport (Lensk)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the southern basin of Lake Baikal shortly after takeoff, along with the dramatic transitions of the Yakutian wilderness.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Southern Lake Baikal

Stunning views of the world's deepest lake and its crystal-clear waters immediately following departure.

🏔️

Vitim Plateau

Rugged, mountainous terrain and frost-shattered rock formations that dominate the horizon mid-flight.

🌊

Lena River Bends

The plane tracks toward the mighty Lena River, showing its massive width and winding curves near Lensk.

❄️

Permafrost Landscapes

Unique thermokarst lakes and polygonal ground patterns caused by the freezing and thawing of the earth.

🚢

Lensk River Port

Views of the industrial river infrastructure and shipping vessels as you descend into the Diamond Province's gateway.

Sit on the right side for the 'money shot' of Lake Baikal. Be ready with your camera within 5-10 minutes of takeoff. In winter, the frozen patterns of the Lena River are spectacular. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the lake's eastern shores.

Left Side Highlights
6.4
🏙️

Irkutsk Cityscape

Aerial views of the historic 'Paris of Siberia' and its classic wooden architecture along the Angara River.

💧

Angara River Valley

Follow the path of the only river that flows out of Lake Baikal as it winds through the Siberian landscape.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

A vast, seemingly endless carpet of larch and pine forests typical of the Middle Siberian Plateau.

🚜

Remote Settlements

Small, isolated Yakutian villages and logging outposts visible along the river tributaries.

The left side is best for those who appreciate the vastness of the taiga. During winter, look for 'zimnik' ice roads crossing the landscape. Afternoon flights on this side avoid the harshest direct sunlight when flying north-northeast.

Top Activities in Lensk
Route Information

Distance: 1,135 km (705 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Arrival: ULK (60.7206001282, 114.825996399)

Route Type: Domestic

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