Loading map...

KWE destination photo
DLU destination photo

KWEDLU

Which side of the plane to sit from Longdongbao Airport (Guiyang) to Dali Airport (Dali)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Wumeng Mountain range and provides the most iconic panoramic view of Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains during the descent into Dali.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Wumeng Mountains

Spectacular views of high-altitude ridges and deep river canyons as you cross the border into Yunnan.

🌉

Beipanjiang Bridge Area

The flight path crosses near some of the world's highest bridges nestled in deep limestone gorges.

🌊

Erhai Lake

The stunning 'Ear-shaped' lake comes into full view during the descent, showcasing its crystal clear waters.

⛰️

Cangshan Mountain Range

The 19 peaks of Cangshan rise dramatically to over 4,000 meters, running parallel to the lake.

🏯

Dali Ancient Town

On clear days during the final approach, the traditional architecture of the old city can be spotted between the mountains and the shore.

The right side is essential for the Erhai Lake approach. Book an early morning flight to see the sun rising over the lake or a midday flight for maximum clarity of the mountain peaks. Note that Dali is often windy, so be prepared for a bumpy but scenic descent through the mountain passes.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Guizhou Karst Peaks

Unique limestone formations and cone-shaped hills typical of the Anshun region shortly after takeoff.

💧

Dianchi Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Yunnan province, visible as a massive blue expanse south of Kunming.

🏙️

Kunming Southern Suburbs

A bird's eye view of the sprawling 'Spring City' and its modern urban development.

🛤️

High-Speed Rail Veins

The intricate network of bridges and tunnels belonging to the Shanghai-Kunming high-speed railway.

Sit toward the back of the plane to avoid wing obstruction when viewing Dianchi Lake. This side is better if the flight is in the late afternoon to avoid direct glare from the southern sun, though some features might be in shadow.

Top Activities in Dali
Route Information

Distance: 655 km (407 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min

Departure: KWE (26.53849983215332, 106.8010025024414)

Arrival: DLU (25.649401, 100.319)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.