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LXA destination photo
KMG destination photo

LXAKMG

Our Recommendation
9.2

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.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏞️

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

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.

Top Activities in Kunming
Route Information

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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