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THL destination photo
MDL destination photo

THLMDL

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🏞️

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.

Top Activities in Mandalay
Route Information

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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