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TJU destination photo
CIT destination photo

TJUCIT

Which side of the plane to sit from Kulob Airport (Kulyab) to Shymkent Airport (Chimkent)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the high Pamir-Alay ranges and the spectacular Western Tien Shan mountains as you approach Kazakhstan.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
❄️

Fann Mountains

Stunning snow-capped peaks and deep glacial valleys of the Zarafshan and Turkestan ranges.

💧

Kayrakkum Reservoir

The 'Tajik Sea,' a massive blue reservoir on the Syr Darya river near Khujand.

🌲

Ugam-Chatkal Range

The dramatic, green-hued mountains of the Western Tien Shan, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

🌊

Shardara Reservoir

A large turquoise body of water marking the final approach toward Shymkent.

🏔️

Kazigurt Mountain

The legendary 'Noah's Ark' mountain of Kazakhstan visible shortly before landing.

This side is essential for mountain lovers. The morning sun illuminates the high peaks perfectly. Ensure you have your camera ready about 20-30 minutes after takeoff for the most dramatic alpine scenery.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Hisar Mountain Range

The western slopes of the Gissar range providing a rugged backdrop during the initial climb.

🏙️

Dushanbe Outskirts

Vast agricultural landscapes and suburban settlements surrounding the Tajik capital to the west.

🌾

Hungry Steppe

The Mirzachul region, a massive expanse of reclaimed desert land turned into agricultural fields.

🏗️

Bekabad Industrial Zone

A view of the industrial infrastructure near the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing.

Sit on the left for better views of the sunset if flying in the evening. Keep an eye out for the transition from mountainous Tajikistan to the flat, irrigated plains of the Syr Darya basin.

Top Activities in Chimkent
Route Information

Distance: 487 km (303 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 49 min

Departure: TJU (37.98809814453125, 69.80500030517578)

Arrival: CIT (42.364200592041016, 69.47889709472656)

Route Type: International

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