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MDL destination photo
HEH destination photo

MDLHEH

Which side of the plane to sit from Mandalay International Airport (Mandalay) to Heho Airport (Heho)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the dry central plains of Mandalay to the lush, rugged Shan Plateau, often providing the clearest view of Inle Lake during the descent into Heho.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Shan Hills Escarpment

Dramatic limestone ridges that mark the start of the Shan Plateau rising sharply from the flat plains.

💧

Myogyi Reservoir

A striking blue body of water nestled within the deep green valleys of the Shan State.

🌊

Inle Lake Basin

The expansive basin surrounding Myanmar's iconic lake, visible as the aircraft begins its final approach.

🚜

Shan Highland Farms

Intricate patterns of terraced agriculture and small villages dotted across the high-altitude landscape.

Sit forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the Shan Plateau's rising peaks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun highlights the eastern slopes and clears the valley mist. During the descent, watch for the shimmering surface of Inle Lake to the southeast.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌅

Irrawaddy Valley

Distant views of the vast Irrawaddy River valley and the plains surrounding Mandalay shortly after takeoff.

🐍

Panlaung River

The winding path of the Panlaung River as it snakes through the hills toward the central lowlands.

☁️

Morning Cloud Seas

On early flights, the valleys are often filled with thick white mist, leaving only the mountain peaks visible.

🛫

Mandalay Hinterlands

Aerial views of the pagodas and rural clusters that surround the Mandalay International Airport area.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to catch the reflection of the sun on the distant river systems. Watch for the sudden appearance of the Heho runway, which is situated on a high plateau.

Top Activities in Heho
Route Information

Distance: 136 km (85 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 min

Departure: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)

Arrival: HEH (20.746999740600582, 96.79199981689452)

Route Type: Domestic

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