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OVB → CIT
Which side of the plane to sit from Tolmachevo Airport (Novosibirsk) to Shymkent Airport (Chimkent)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the towering snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan range and the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Balkhash as you travel south.
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Ob Reservoir
Visible shortly after takeoff, this massive man-made sea dominates the landscape south of Novosibirsk.
Altai Foothills
Dramatic transition from the Siberian plains to the rugged northern edges of the Altai mountain system.
Lake Balkhash
Stunning views of the eastern saline section of the lake, known for its unique crescent shape and turquoise color.
Trans-Ili Alatau
Magnificent views of the northernmost range of the Tian Shan mountains with peaks reaching over 4,000 meters.
Almaty Surroundings
As the flight descends, the densely populated regions and gardens near the base of the mountains come into view.
For the most dramatic lighting on the Tian Shan mountains, choose a morning flight. The sun will illuminate the snow-capped peaks from the east. In winter, the frozen surface of the Ob Reservoir creates a stunning white expanse. Keep your camera ready about mid-flight for the striking contrast between the Kazakh steppe and the blue waters of Lake Balkhash.
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Kulunda Steppe
The 'breadbasket' of Siberia, featuring a patchwork of agricultural fields and small salt lakes.
Betpak-Dala Desert
Also known as the Hungry Steppe, this vast arid plateau offers a desolate and mesmerizing landscape.
Western Balkhash
Views of the freshwater side of the lake, often appearing a different shade of blue than the eastern side.
Karatau Mountains
A weathered, ancient mountain range that signals the final approach into the Shymkent region.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to experience the sunset over the vast Kazakh horizon. The desert landscapes of Betpak-Dala are particularly impressive when the low sun creates long shadows across the dunes and dry riverbeds. During the summer, look for the 'white' salt crusts on the numerous drying lakes in the Kulunda region.
Book Hotels in ChimkentDistance: 1,701 km (1,057 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 16 min
Departure: OVB (55.012599945068, 82.650703430176)
Arrival: CIT (42.364200592041016, 69.47889709472656)
Route Type: International
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