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LHR destination photo
PEK destination photo

LHRPEK

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the best chance to see the vast Siberian wilderness and the breathtaking expanse of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, along with potential Aurora Borealis views in winter.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

North Sea Crossing

Aerial views of the busy shipping lanes and offshore wind farms shortly after departing London.

🏔️

Ural Mountains

The ancient mountain range that serves as the natural boundary between Europe and Asia.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Endless stretches of pristine coniferous forests and winding river systems across Northern Russia.

💧

Lake Baikal

The highlight of the route; a massive, crescent-shaped rift lake that is stunning even from 35,000 feet.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

On night flights during winter months, this side faces north toward the magnetic pole, offering views of the Northern Lights.

Choose a seat well away from the wing for unobstructed views of Lake Baikal, which typically appears about two-thirds into the journey. If flying in winter, keep your window dim and eyes peeled for the green glow of the Aurora over the Russian Arctic.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

European Capitals

Potential views of Berlin or Warsaw depending on the specific airway used during the initial cruise.

🏔️

Altai Mountains

Dramatic, snow-capped peaks where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan meet.

🏜️

Gobi Desert

The vast, shadows-swept dunes and rocky plateaus of Southern Mongolia and Northern China.

🧱

The Great Wall

Visible as a faint line snaking across the mountain ridges during the final descent into Beijing.

🌅

Eurasian Sunrise

Spectacular sunrise views over the high-altitude plateaus as the plane enters Chinese airspace.

The right side is superior for photography during the descent into PEK. Look for the Great Wall in the rugged terrain north of Beijing approximately 20-30 minutes before landing. This side also catches the first light of dawn on eastbound overnight flights.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 8,153 km (5,066 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 36 min

Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: International

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