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SYM → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Pu'er Simao Airport (Simao) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the iconic Dianchi Lake and the 'Sleeping Beauty' Xishan mountain range during the approach to Kunming.
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Pu'er Tea Plantations
Expansive, terraced green hills dedicated to the world-famous Pu'er tea cultivation surrounding Simao.
Ailao Mountain Range
Dramatic ridges and deep valleys of the Ailao mountains, often shrouded in misty subtropical clouds.
Dianchi Lake
The massive 'Sparkling Pearl of the Plateau,' visible as the plane aligns for its final descent into Kunming.
Xishan (Western Hills)
The famous silhouette of the 'Sleeping Beauty' mountain bordering the western shores of Dianchi Lake.
Kunming West Skyline
A bird's-eye view of the rapidly growing urban sprawl of western Kunming and its scenic parks.
Morning flights on the left side avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare. As you approach Kunming, keep your camera ready for the transition from the rugged Ailao mountains to the vast expanse of Dianchi Lake. The 'Sleeping Beauty' profile of Xishan is best captured when the plane is at lower altitudes during the descent.
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Simao District
A clear view of the Pu'er city center and its unique layout immediately after takeoff from SYM.
G8511 Expressway
The winding Kunming-Mohan Expressway snaking through the complex mountainous terrain below.
Fuxian Lake
Depending on the flight path, the deep blue waters of China's second deepest freshwater lake may be visible to the east.
Red River (Yuanjiang) Valley
The deep, steep-sided valley of the Yuan River, showing the dramatic elevation changes of the Yunnan plateau.
The right side is excellent for observing the engineering marvels of Yunnan's highway system through the mountains. Late afternoon flights provide a beautiful golden glow over the eastern ridges of the Ailao range. During the final approach to KMG, you will see the eastern industrial and residential expansions of Kunming.
Book Hotels in KunmingDistance: 326 km (203 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 33 min
Departure: SYM (22.793301, 100.959)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: Domestic
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