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PBH destination photo
IXB destination photo

PBHIXB

Which side of the plane to sit from Paro Airport (Thimphu) to Bagdogra Airport (Baghdogra)?

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the eastern Himalayas, featuring the massive Kanchenjunga massif and distant glimpses of the Everest range shortly after takeoff from Paro.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🏔️

Mount Kanchenjunga

The world's third-highest peak is the star of the route, appearing massive and remarkably close to the flight path.

❄️

Mount Jomolhari

Known as the 'Bride of Kangchenjunga', this sacred peak is visible on the Bhutanese horizon shortly after departure.

☁️

Everest Massif

On exceptionally clear days, the silhouettes of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu are visible on the far western horizon.

🌄

Singalila Ridge

The prominent ridge that forms the border between India and Nepal, stretching down toward Darjeeling.

☕

Darjeeling Tea Gardens

As the plane descends, look for the emerald-green patterns of the world-famous tea estates on the rolling hills.

Sit forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the high peaks. Morning flights (07:00–10:00) are essential for this route as clouds usually obscure the Himalayan peaks by midday. Keep your camera ready from the moment the gear retracts, as the best views appear within the first 15 minutes.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
⛰️

Paro Valley Exit

Witness the dramatic steep-banked turns required to navigate the narrow valley walls immediately after takeoff.

⚡

Chukha Hydropower Plant

Aerial view of the massive dam and infrastructure carved into the deep Wang Chhu river gorge.

🌊

Teesta River Basin

The winding blue-green waters of the Teesta River as it exits the mountains and enters the plains of West Bengal.

🌳

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Dense canopy of the foothills' tropical forests as the aircraft begins its final approach into Bagdogra.

Watch for the rapid change in vegetation from alpine forests to tropical jungles. This side is better if you want to see the intricate river systems of the Duars region during the descent. The late afternoon light can provide beautiful shadows over the deep Bhutanese valleys.

Top Activities in Baghdogra
Route Information

Distance: 135 km (84 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 min

Departure: PBH (27.4032001495, 89.42459869380001)

Arrival: IXB (26.68120002746582, 88.32859802246094)

Route Type: International

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