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MAA → CMB
Which side of the plane to sit from Chennai International Airport (Madras) to Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (Colombo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views of this route, including the geological wonder of Adam's Bridge (Ram Setu) and the stunning turquoise lagoons of the Gulf of Mannar.
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Adam's Bridge
The chain of limestone shoals between Pamban Island and Mannar Island, steeped in mythology and history.
Gulf of Mannar
Incredible turquoise waters and coral reef patterns visible through the shallow sea.
Mannar Island
The arid western tip of Sri Lanka featuring unique landscapes and colonial-era landmarks.
West Coast Beaches
The golden sands of the Negombo coastline just minutes before touchdown.
Negombo Lagoon
A bird's eye view of the large estuarine lagoon filled with traditional outrigger canoes.
This is the premier side for geography buffs. To see Adam's Bridge clearly, fly during the day with clear weather. On evening flights, the right side provides a stunning view of the sunset over the Laccadive Sea during the final approach.
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Chennai Metropolis
Aerial views of the sprawling city and the famous Marina Beach immediately after takeoff.
Coromandel Coast
The deep blue waters of the Bay of Bengal stretching out toward the horizon.
Sri Lankan Interior
Lush tropical landscapes and expansive paddy fields as you cross the northern provinces.
Central Highlands
Distant views of the misty peaks of the Sri Lankan hill country on clear days.
Choose this side for morning flights to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Bay of Bengal. It is also the better side for seeing the vast greenery of the island's interior as the plane descends toward Katunayake.
Get eSIMs for India
Get eSIMs for Sri LankaDistance: 647 km (402 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)
Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)
Route Type: International
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