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KWE destination photo
LJG destination photo

KWELJG

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

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the dramatic transition from the karst plateaus of Guizhou to the towering snow-capped peaks of the Hengduan Mountains, culminating in a close-up view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
⛰️

Wumeng Mountain Range

Rugged, high-altitude terrain with deep valleys and steep ridges that define the border between Guizhou and Yunnan.

🌊

Jinsha River Gorge

The upper reaches of the Yangtze River carving through the landscape with dramatic vertical drops.

❄️

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

The majestic 5,596m glacier-topped massif is often clearly visible on the northern horizon during the descent into Lijiang.

🏘️

Lijiang Ancient Town

The sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site with its traditional tiled roofs is visible just before landing at Sanyi Airport.

This is one of the most scenic routes in China. Secure a window seat on the right and aim for a flight arriving in the late afternoon; the setting sun illuminates the glaciers of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with a golden glow, providing an unforgettable approach into Lijiang.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Guiyang Cityscape

Aerial views of the 'Forest City' and its dense urban architecture immediately following takeoff from Longdongbao.

🌉

Beipan River Bridges

Occasional sightings of the world's highest bridge infrastructures spanning deep limestone canyons in western Guizhou.

💧

Chenghai Lake

A deep, shimmering blue tectonic lake nestled in the mountains of northern Yunnan as you approach the destination.

The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. While less dramatic than the right, it offers excellent views of Guizhou's unique 'bridge museum' landscape and the sprawling urban outskirts of Qujing during the mid-flight phase.

Top Activities in Lijiang
Route Information

Distance: 652 km (405 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min

Departure: KWE (26.53849983215332, 106.8010025024414)

Arrival: LJG (26.6800003052, 100.246002197)

Route Type: Domestic

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