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IXB destination photo
PBH destination photo

IXBPBH

Which side of the plane to sit from Bagdogra Airport (Baghdogra) to Paro Airport (Thimphu)?

Our Recommendation
9.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the highest peaks on Earth, including the Kanchenjunga massif and distant glimpses of Everest during the short ascent into the Himalayas.

Left Side Highlights
9.8
🏔️

Mount Kanchenjunga

The world's third-highest peak is the star attraction, appearing massive and remarkably close to the flight path.

🗻

Everest and Makalu

On clear mornings, the distinct shapes of Mount Everest and Makalu are visible on the far western horizon.

🏞️

Teesta River Gorge

A deep valley where the Teesta River cuts through the mountains of Sikkim and West Bengal.

☁️

Eastern Himalayan Range

A continuous chain of snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon as you enter Bhutanese airspace.

Book a window seat on the left side (typically seat 'A') and prioritize early morning flights for the clearest skies and best lighting on the peaks. This is an extremely short flight, often under 40 minutes, so keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Pristine Forests

Vast stretches of untouched high-altitude forests that showcase Bhutan's incredible biodiversity.

🏘️

Traditional Settlements

View traditional white-walled houses with timber-framed windows scattered across the steep hillsides.

💧

Pa Chhu River

The winding river that guides the aircraft through the narrow, twisting valley during the approach to Paro.

🏢

Phuntsholing Border

The bustling gateway town between India and Bhutan visible during the initial climb from the plains.

The right side is excellent for observing the unique geography of the Bhutanese interior. While it lacks the high Himalayan giants, it offers a superior view of the dramatic, low-altitude banking maneuvers required to navigate the narrow valley for landing at Paro.

Top Activities in Thimphu
Route Information

Distance: 135 km (84 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 min

Departure: IXB (26.68120002746582, 88.32859802246094)

Arrival: PBH (27.4032001495, 89.42459869380001)

Route Type: International

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