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RGN destination photo
NYU destination photo

RGNNYU

Which side of the plane to sit from Yangon International Airport (Yangon) to Bagan Airport (Bagan)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route because it offers a direct view of the Irrawaddy River meanders for most of the journey and provides the iconic 'sea of temples' panorama as the aircraft aligns for the approach into Nyaung-U.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Yangon Skyline

Aerial views of the Hlaing River and the golden spire of Shwedagon Pagoda shimmering in the distance shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Irrawaddy River

Continuous views of the vast river system, showing the seasonal change in water levels and sandbanks.

🏛️

Ancient Pyu Cities

The landscape around Pyay (Prome) where the ancient UNESCO-listed Sri Ksetra ruins are located.

🛶

River Traffic

Spotting traditional wooden cargo boats and small fishing vessels navigating the complex river channels.

🛕

Bagan Archaeological Zone

The spectacular sight of thousands of red-brick pagodas emerging from the plains during the final descent.

Book a seat in the front of the cabin for an unobstructed view of the Bagan temples. On morning flights, the sun is behind you, providing perfectly lit landscapes for photography. Look out for the change from lush green delta to the arid 'Dry Zone' of central Myanmar midway through the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
⛰️

Pegu Range (Bago Yoma)

Views of the forested mountain range that separates the Irrawaddy and Sittang river valleys.

🌾

Agricultural Patchwork

The geometric beauty of rice paddies and peanut farms that dominate the landscape between Yangon and Magway.

🌋

Mount Popa

The striking sight of the isolated volcanic plug topped with a golden monastery, visible shortly before landing.

🏘️

Rural Settlements

Clusters of traditional Burmese villages with their distinct palm-leaf roofs and community monasteries.

Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing to capture Mount Popa rising from the plains. While this side misses the main river views, it offers better lighting in the late afternoon for shots of the Pegu Range foothills without the glare from the water.

Top Activities in Bagan
Route Information

Distance: 492 km (306 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 49 min

Departure: RGN (16.907300949099998, 96.1332015991)

Arrival: NYU (21.178800582885746, 94.9301986694336)

Route Type: Domestic

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