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PEN destination photo
KCH destination photo

PENKCH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring iconic views of Penang's bridges and George Town on departure, followed by the dramatic coastal silhouettes of Mount Santubong and the Sarawak coastline during the descent into Kuching.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

Penang Bridges

Clear views of both the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge and the original Penang Bridge shortly after takeoff.

🏙️

George Town Skyline

A panoramic look at the UNESCO World Heritage city and the Komtar tower against the backdrop of the sea.

🏝️

Pulau Aman & Pulau Gedung

Small, lush islands sitting in the narrow channel between Penang Island and the mainland.

⛰️

Mount Santubong

The legendary 'Sleeping Princess' mountain, a massive monolith rising directly out of the sea near Kuching.

🏖️

Bako National Park

Jagged cliffs, secluded beaches, and the rugged coastline of Sarawak's oldest national park on final approach.

Secure a window seat on the right for the iconic Penang departure. This side is particularly scenic during sunset flights, as the light hits Mount Santubong and the Bako cliffs. Aim for a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Penang bridges during the initial climb.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Titiwangsa Mountains

Aerial views of the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia, featuring dense tropical peaks and misty valleys.

🏙️

Ipoh Limestone Karsts

Distinctive white limestone cliffs and hills visible as the plane tracks southeast across the peninsula.

🌊

Pahang Coastline

The point where the lush jungle of the mainland meets the turquoise waters of the South China Sea.

🛶

Sarawak River Meanders

Intricate, snake-like river patterns carving through the Sarawak delta as you approach the city.

🌳

Borneo Interior

Endless expanses of ancient tropical rainforest and palm plantations stretching toward the horizon.

Sit on the left for better views of the Peninsular mountain ranges. Mid-morning flights are best to avoid the heavy glare from the sun reflecting off the South China Sea. During descent, watch for the complex river networks that define the Sarawakian landscape.

Top Activities in Kuching
Route Information

Distance: 1,195 km (743 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: PEN (5.297140121459961, 100.2770004272461)

Arrival: KCH (1.4846999645233154, 110.34700012207033)

Route Type: Domestic

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