Loading map...

LJG destination photo
KMG destination photo

LJGKMG

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the iconic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain shortly after takeoff, followed by clear views of Dali's Erhai Lake and the expansive Dianchi Lake upon arrival in Kunming.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
❄️

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

The southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, featuring jagged limestone peaks draped in snow.

💧

Erhai Lake

The famous ear-shaped alpine fault lake near Dali, appearing as a bright blue jewel amidst the mountains.

⛰️

Cangshan Mountains

A majestic range flanking the western side of Dali, often shrouded in a sea of clouds.

🌅

Dianchi Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Yunnan, marking the final approach into Kunming Changshui International.

Choose a window seat on the right for the iconic 'Yulong Xueshan' view immediately after departure. During the summer monsoon season (June-August), afternoon clouds may obscure the peaks, so early morning flights are highly recommended for clarity. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes into the flight for the best view of Dali's Erhai Lake.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏔️

Hengduan Mountain Ridges

Deeply incised valleys and high altitude ridges characterizing the rugged terrain of northern Yunnan.

🌊

Jinsha River Bends

The upper reaches of the Yangtze River winding through narrow canyons visible in the distance.

🏙️

Northern Kunming Sprawl

The rapid urban development and mountainous outskirts of the Yunnan capital as the plane descends.

Morning flights provide the best lighting for the left side, as the sun is in the southeast. Look for the distinct terraced fields that dot the mountainsides during the middle of the flight. This side is quieter for photography if you want to avoid direct sunlight during midday flights.

Top Activities in Kunming
Route Information

Distance: 321 km (199 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 32 min

Departure: LJG (26.6800003052, 100.246002197)

Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)

Route Type: Domestic

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