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KTM → LXA
Which side of the plane to sit from Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (Lhasa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the world's highest peaks, including a direct and close-up perspective of Mount Everest and the central Himalayan range.
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Mount Everest
The world's highest peak is visible in all its glory shortly after takeoff from Kathmandu.
Cho Oyu
The 6th highest mountain in the world provides a massive, snow-covered backdrop to the north.
Shishapangma
The only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within Tibet, seen as a sharp, white pyramid.
Glacial Lakes
Stunning turquoise alpine lakes dot the rugged landscape as you cross the border into China.
Tibetan Plateau
The dramatic shift from the jagged Himalayas to the high-altitude, rolling brown desert of the plateau.
Book a window seat on the left side (typically seat 'A'). Most flights depart Kathmandu in the morning when the air is clearest; visibility drops significantly by midday as clouds form around the peaks. Sit ahead of or well behind the wing to ensure your view of Everest isn't blocked by the engines.
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The distinct pyramid-shaped fifth-highest mountain in the world is visible to the southeast.
Kanchenjunga
On exceptionally clear days, the third-highest peak can be seen far in the distance.
Yarlung Tsangpo River
The braided river valley becomes clearly visible during the descent into Lhasa Gonggar Airport.
Tibetan Villages
Bird's-eye views of traditional flat-roofed stone settlements clustered in the river valleys.
Sand Dunes
Unexpected high-altitude sand dunes located along the banks of the Yarlung Tsangpo.
The right side (typically seat 'F') is excellent for seeing the river systems and the descent into the Lhasa valley. This side also experiences less glare from the sun on morning flights heading east. While you miss the direct view of Everest, the panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas are still world-class.
Book Hotels in LhasaDistance: 571 km (355 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: KTM (27.6966, 85.3591)
Arrival: LXA (29.2978000641, 90.9119033813)
Route Type: International
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