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KMG → LUM
Which side of the plane to sit from Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming) to Mangshi Airport (Luxi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic 'Three Parallel Rivers' geography, including the spectacular Cangshan mountain range and the deep-cut gorges of the Lancang and Nu rivers.
Cangshan Mountains
The majestic 19 peaks of Dali, often capped with clouds or snow in winter.
Erhai Lake
A stunning ear-shaped lake nestled against the mountains, visible on clear days.
Nu River (Salween) Gorge
One of the deepest and most dramatic river canyons in the world.
Gaoligong Mountains
A biodiversity hotspot with rugged terrain marking the borderlands of western Yunnan.
Mangshi Golden Pagodas
Glimpses of the Menghuan Grand Golden Pagoda during the final descent into the valley.
The right side is the prime spot for viewing the high-altitude scenery of the Hengduan Mountains. Afternoon flights are spectacular on this side as the setting sun illuminates the Nu River gorge and the golden architecture of Mangshi.
Dianchi Lake
The largest freshwater lake in Yunnan, visible shortly after departure from Kunming.
Kunming Cityscape
Expansive views of the 'Spring City' and its unique urban layout between the mountains.
Lincang Highlands
Rolling green hills and tea-growing regions of central-western Yunnan.
Lancang (Mekong) River
Aerial view of the river snaking through deep mountain valleys toward the south.
Subtropical Forests
Dense, lush vegetation typical of the Dehong region as you approach Mangshi.
Sit on the left for the best view of Dianchi Lake during the initial ascent. For morning flights, this side will have better lighting for photography as the sun is in the east behind the plane's tail.
Distance: 451 km (280 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 45 min
Departure: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Arrival: LUM (24.4011, 98.5317)
Route Type: Domestic
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