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LXA → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (Lhasa) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled view of the Three Parallel Rivers Gorges and the iconic snow-capped peaks of the Hengduan Mountains, including the sacred Meili Snow Mountain.
Three Parallel Rivers
Fly over the deep canyons of the Nu, Lancang, and Jinsha rivers, a UNESCO World Heritage site where three of Asia's great rivers flow side-by-side.
Meili Snow Mountain
Glimpse the majestic Kawagarbo peak, the highest point in Yunnan and one of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
As you approach Yunnan, the glaciated peaks near Lijiang dominate the horizon with their jagged silver spines.
Erhai Lake
View the large ear-shaped lake near Dali, reflecting the surrounding Cangshan Mountains.
Dianchi Lake
The final landmark before landing in Kunming, providing a vast expanse of water right next to the city skyline.
The right side is superior for geological enthusiasts wanting to see the 'Three Parallel Rivers' phenomenon. For the best photography, sit behind the wing to capture the contrast between the white snow peaks and the deep green river valleys. Afternoon flights may experience more turbulence but offer spectacular sunset colors over the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.
Yarlung Tsangpo River
Witness the winding turquoise waters of the world's highest major river shortly after takeoff from Lhasa.
Namcha Barwa Peak
Look for the 'Spear of the Sky,' a massive peak marking the eastern end of the Himalayas.
Lugu Lake
A stunning high-altitude alpine lake known for its crystal-clear water and the unique Mosuo culture on its shores.
Daxue Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain ranges forming the transition between the Tibetan Plateau and the Sichuan Basin.
Choose a morning flight to avoid cloud cover over the peaks. The left side is particularly good for spotting the sharp bend of the Yarlung Tsangpo and the distant high peaks of the eastern Himalayas. Keep an eye out for the vast alpine meadows during the mid-flight segment.
Distance: 1,276 km (793 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: LXA (29.2978000641, 90.9119033813)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: Domestic
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