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NKG → XNN
Which side of the plane to sit from Nanjing Lukou Airport (Nanjing) to Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic granite peaks of Mount Hua and the intricate, labyrinthine patterns of the Loess Plateau and the Yellow River.
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Mount Hua (Huashan)
A breathtaking view of the steep, jagged granite cliffs of one of China's most sacred mountains near Huayin.
Loess Plateau
The iconic yellow-earthed landscape featuring deep vertical gullies, ancient cave dwellings, and intricate terrace farming.
Yellow River Bends
The 'Mother River' of China comes into view as it winds through the arid landscapes of Shaanxi and Gansu.
Lanzhou Valley
Observe the unique urban layout of Lanzhou, a city stretched long and thin within a narrow Yellow River canyon.
Qilian Mountain Range
As you approach Xining, the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian mountains become visible on the northern horizon.
The right side is essential for spotting Mount Hua, which appears approximately one hour after takeoff. Early morning flights provide excellent high-contrast shadows over the Loess Plateau, making the erosion patterns look like a 3D topographical map. In winter, the snow on the Loess terraces creates a stunning 'silver dragon' effect.
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Dabie Mountains
Initial views of the forested ridges of the Dabie Mountains as the flight crosses from Jiangsu into Anhui.
Qinling Mountains
A continuous view of the southern slopes of this major mountain range, which serves as the natural boundary between North and South China.
Wei River Valley
Lush agricultural basins and historical river landscapes near the ancient capital of Xi'an.
Tianshui Highlands
The landscape begins to rise dramatically into the rugged, high-altitude terrain of Gansu Province.
Sit on the left if you want to see the dense, mountainous barrier of the Qinling range. This side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun, providing clearer views of the southern mountain ridges.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,634 km (1,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)
Arrival: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Route Type: Domestic
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