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LWY destination photo
BKM destination photo

LWYBKM

Which side of the plane to sit from Lawas Airport (Lawas) to Bakalalan Airport (Bakalalan)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Pulong Tau National Park and a closer perspective of Mount Murud, the highest peak in Sarawak.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Lawas River & Estuary

Aerial view of the winding Lawas River as the flight departs, showing the transition from coastal wetlands to inland jungle.

⛰️

Mount Murud

Spectacular views of Sarawak's highest sandstone mountain, often visible rising above the surrounding cloud forest.

🍃

Pulong Tau National Park

A vast expanse of primary rainforest and highland ecosystems that dominate the landscape heading into the interior.

🛶

Trusan River Serpentine

The intricate, brownish-green coils of the Trusan River cutting through the dense tropical canopy.

Book an early morning flight (usually the first rotation) to avoid the heavy cloud cover that typically develops over the highlands by midday. Look for the distinct peak of Mount Murud about 15-20 minutes into the flight; it is the most iconic landmark of the northern Sarawak interior.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Tama Abu Range

Rugged mountain ridges forming the backbone of the highlands, showcasing sharp vertical relief and deep valleys.

🌾

Ba'kelalan Rice Paddies

Distinctive terraced wet rice fields that appear like a patchwork quilt as the plane descends into the valley.

🏘️

Remote Longhouses

Tiny clearings in the jungle revealing traditional Lun Bawang settlements and remote farming communities.

During the final approach into Bakalalan, the right side offers a superior view of the unique high-altitude apple orchards and the valley floor. Keep your camera ready for the 'padi' fields, which change color from vibrant green to golden yellow depending on the harvest season (usually peaking in January).

Top Activities in Bakalalan
Route Information

Distance: 100 km (62 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 min

Departure: LWY (4.84917, 115.407997)

Arrival: BKM (3.973999977111816, 115.61799621582033)

Route Type: Domestic

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