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THL destination photo
HEH destination photo

THLHEH

Which side of the plane to sit from Tachileik Airport (Tachilek) to Heho Airport (Heho)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the iconic Inle Lake during the descent, along with dramatic views of the Salween River crossing and the southern Shan mountains.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Golden Triangle Highlands

The rugged mountain ranges bordering Thailand and Laos immediately visible after takeoff from Tachileik.

💧

Salween River Gorge

A spectacular crossing of the Thanlwin (Salween) River, one of Asia's longest free-flowing rivers, carving through deep mountain valleys.

🛶

Inle Lake Basin

As the plane begins its descent into Heho, the southern and central parts of Inle Lake come into view, showcasing the vast water surface.

🚜

Southern Shan Farms

Geometric patterns of high-altitude agriculture and seasonal crops on the fertile Shan plateau.

Choose a window seat on the left (usually Seat A) for the best perspective of Inle Lake. Morning flights are highly recommended as the sun will be behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the lake and the stilt villages below without glare. Look for the Salween River approximately 20 minutes into the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Kengtung Ranges

Views looking north toward the higher elevation peaks near the historic city of Kengtung.

🌲

Tropical Teak Forests

Dense canopy cover and biodiversity-rich forest reserves that characterize the northern Shan State landscape.

🏘️

Hill Tribe Settlements

Small, isolated villages perched on ridgelines, visible in the remote areas between Tachileik and the Salween River.

🌾

Terraced Slopes

Beautiful examples of upland rice terracing carved into the steep hillsides of the northern flight path.

The right side is excellent for viewing the more rugged, mountainous northern terrain. During the monsoon season (June–September), the right side often provides dramatic views of cloud formations over the high ridges. If flying in the late afternoon, be prepared for some sun glare on this side.

Top Activities in Heho
Route Information

Distance: 328 km (204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 33 min

Departure: THL (20.483800888061523, 99.9354019165039)

Arrival: HEH (20.746999740600582, 96.79199981689452)

Route Type: Domestic

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