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ISB → CJL
Which side of the plane to sit from New Islamabad International Airport (Islamabad) to Chitral Airport (Chitral)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled perspective of the lush Swat and Dir valleys before culminating in a breathtaking close-up of Tirich Mir, the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range.
Tarbela Dam
Shortly after takeoff, view one of the world's largest earth-filled dams and its massive reservoir on the Indus River.
Swat Valley
Look down upon the 'Switzerland of the East' with its emerald green fields and winding river systems.
Lowari Pass & Tunnel
See the dramatic switchbacks of the old mountain pass and the modern engineering of the 10.4km tunnel cutting through the range.
Tirich Mir
The crown jewel of the flight; the 7,708m summit of the Hindu Kush's highest peak dominates the horizon on the approach.
Chitral Town
The descent offers a bird's-eye view of the town's unique architecture and the Shahi Mosque nestled in the valley.
Book an early morning flight (usually 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM) to avoid afternoon clouds that frequently obscure the high peaks. Request a window seat forward of the wing (usually row A) for unobstructed views of the Hindu Kush. In winter, the entire landscape is draped in deep snow, making for dramatic high-contrast photography.
Margalla Hills
Immediate views of the rugged limestone hills bordering Islamabad right after departure from ISB.
Nanga Parbat
On exceptionally clear days, the 'Killer Mountain' (8,126m) is visible in the far distance to the northeast.
Hindu Raj Range
Enjoy views of the sharp, jagged ridges of the Hindu Raj mountains that parallel the flight path.
Kunar River
As the plane banks for arrival, see the turquoise waters of the river flowing toward the Afghan border.
Valley Descent
Experience the thrilling, steep descent into the narrow Chitral valley, passing close to rugged cliff faces.
The right side (F seats) is excellent for capturing the sheer scale of the mountain ranges. Keep your camera ready for the distant Karakoram peaks if the sky is haze-free. Note that during the final turn into the valley, the right side experiences a dramatic tilt, providing a unique perspective of the valley floor.
Distance: 276 km (171 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: ISB (33.560713, 72.851613)
Arrival: CJL (35.88660049438477, 71.80059814453125)
Route Type: Domestic
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