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THL → MDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Tachileik Airport (Tachilek) to Mandalay International Airport (Mandalay)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the vast Shan Plateau, the dramatic Salween River crossing, and a better angle for the golden pagoda-studded landscape approaching Mandalay.
Shan Plateau Karst
Immediately after takeoff, witness the dramatic limestone formations and deep valleys of the eastern Shan State.
Salween River Gorge
Cross over the wild, undammed Thanlwin River as it carves a massive trench through the rugged mountains.
Highland Agriculture
View the intricate patchwork of terraced farms and hill-tribe settlements clinging to the steep mountain slopes.
Mandalay Hinterlands
As the plane descends, look for the glint of countless gold-topped stupas emerging from the green landscape.
For the best photography, choose a seat well clear of the wing. Morning flights are ideal as the sun is positioned to the southeast, illuminating the valleys without creating harsh glare on the window. Keep an eye out for Inle Lake in the far distance to the south mid-flight.
Northern Shan Ridges
Extensive views of the high altitude ridges extending north toward the border with China.
Irrawaddy River Bend
During the descent into MDL, see the massive Irrawaddy River winding through the central dry zone.
Sagaing Hills
Spot the famous religious complex of Sagaing, with hundreds of pagodas visible along the river banks on final approach.
Cloud Seas
During the monsoon season, the right side often sees spectacular 'seas of clouds' trapped between the mountain peaks.
The right side is excellent if the aircraft approaches Mandalay from the north, providing a panoramic view of the river and the ancient city of Ava. Wear polarized sunglasses to cut through the tropical haze common in the afternoons.
Distance: 432 km (268 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: THL (20.483800888061523, 99.9354019165039)
Arrival: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)
Route Type: Domestic
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