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NZH destination photo
KJA destination photo

NZHKJA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unparalleled view of Lake Baikal's vast central expanse, including the iconic Olkhon Island and the source of the Angara River as you transit from China into the heart of Siberia.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏘️

Chita City

An aerial overview of this major Siberian administrative hub and its surrounding valley shortly after crossing the border.

🌊

Lake Baikal

The world's deepest lake appears as a massive sapphire jewel; its sheer scale is best appreciated from this side.

🏝️

Olkhon Island

The sacred heart of Baikal, visible as a long, mountainous landmass surrounded by deep blue water.

💧

Angara River Source

The only outlet of Lake Baikal, where a massive volume of water flows out toward the Yenisey.

🏙️

Yenisey River

One of the world's great rivers, marking the final approach into Krasnoyarsk's industrial and natural landscape.

Choose the right side specifically for Lake Baikal. During the winter months from January to March, look for the giant geometric cracks in the lake's ice. For the best photography, aim for a flight departing Manzhouli in the late morning to have the sun behind you when passing over the lake.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
💧

Hulun Lake

One of China's largest freshwater lakes located just south of Manzhouli, visible immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Yablonovyy Range

The continental divide between the Arctic and Pacific drainage basins, featuring rugged Siberian terrain.

🚂

Southern Baikal Shore

The dramatic southern coastline where the mountains meet the water, home to the historic Circum-Baikal Railway.

🏔️

East Sayan Mountains

As you approach Krasnoyarsk, these snow-capped peaks dominate the southern horizon with alpine grandeur.

The left side is best for sunset flights, providing a warm glow over the Sayan Mountains. Look for the sharp contrast between the Mongolian steppe and the Siberian forest early in the flight. In winter, the southern Baikal mountains look particularly majestic with heavy snow cover.

Top Activities in Krasnoyarsk
Route Information

Distance: 1,809 km (1,124 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 25 min

Departure: NZH (49.566666999999995, 117.33)

Arrival: KJA (56.172901, 92.493301)

Route Type: International

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