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MYT destination photo
MDL destination photo

MYTMDL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers continuous views of the majestic Irrawaddy River as it meanders through the central plains, providing a front-row seat to the Sagaing Hills and ancient pagodas during the descent into Mandalay.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Irrawaddy River Meanders

Spectacular views of the massive river snaking through the landscape with shifting sandbars and river traffic.

📖

Katha Township

The historic riverside town made famous by George Orwell's 'Burmese Days' is clearly visible on the west bank.

✨

Sagaing Pagodas

Dozens of shimmering gold and white stupas dotting the emerald green ridges as you approach the airport.

🏯

Mingun Pahtodawgyi

The enormous brick remains of an unfinished stupa, one of the largest archaeological sites in the region.

🌾

Central Dry Zone

The landscape transitions into the characteristic agricultural patchwork of Upper Burma's heartland.

The right side is essential for the best river views. For the most dramatic lighting on the golden pagodas of Sagaing, take a mid-to-late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the hills from the west. During the monsoon season (June-September), this side offers great views of the flooded plains.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Shan Plateau Foothills

Rugged views of the eastern highlands where the terrain transitions from the Himalayan foothills to the Shan State.

💧

Taping River Junction

Aerial perspective of the confluence near Bhamo where significant tributaries feed into the main river system.

💎

Mogok Mountain Range

Distant glimpses of the jagged peaks surrounding the world-famous ruby mining region to the southeast.

Choose the left side for morning flights to see the sun rising over the Shan Hills, though glare can be intense. This side provides a better view of the dense forest canopies and remote mountain settlements in the first half of the trip.

Top Activities in Mandalay
Route Information

Distance: 433 km (269 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 43 min

Departure: MYT (25.38360023498535, 97.35189819335938)

Arrival: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)

Route Type: Domestic

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