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KTM → VNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (Varanasi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior as it provides a front-row seat to the central Himalayan massifs during the climb out of Kathmandu and offers a more direct view of the Varanasi city sprawl and river bends during the landing sequence.
Central Himalayas
Stunning views of the Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Annapurna ranges visible shortly after departure.
Trishuli River
The winding turquoise waters of the Trishuli River cutting through the Himalayan foothills.
Indo-Nepal Border
The sharp geographical transition where the Himalayan hills abruptly meet the flat Indian plains.
Varanasi Old City
A dense urban landscape of narrow alleys and brown rooftops leading toward the river.
Varanasi Ghats
The iconic stone steps lining the Ganges, visible as the plane banks for its final approach to VNS.
Choose a window seat behind the wing for unobstructed views of the Himalayas. For the best photography, book a morning flight when the sun illuminates the mountains from the east. In the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, causing glare. Keep a lookout for the Ganges river bend just before touchdown.
Kathmandu Valley
Aerial views of the densely packed capital and the ancient city of Patan immediately after takeoff.
Mahabharat Range
The lush, jagged green hills that form the middle mountains of Nepal, offering deep valley views.
Terai Lowlands
The flat, agricultural heartland of Nepal, characterized by a patchwork of fields and rivers.
Ganges River
Views of the sacred river as it flows eastward through the vast Indian plains.
Sarnath
Look for the Dhamekh Stupa and the archaeological ruins of the Buddhist site near Varanasi.
The left side is ideal for seeing the vastness of the Indo-Gangetic plains. Sit in the front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. During the winter months (November to February), expect morning fog which may obscure ground details until the plane is at a lower altitude.
Distance: 352 km (219 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: KTM (27.6966, 85.3591)
Arrival: VNS (25.4524002075, 82.85929870609999)
Route Type: International
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