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HKG destination photo

ULNHKG

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is preferred for its superior views of the eastern Gobi Desert and a more dramatic approach into Hong Kong. As you head south, this side avoids the direct glare of the afternoon sun, providing clearer views of the Yellow River's massive northern bend and the sprawling urban density of the Pearl River Delta, including the Shenzhen skyline, during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏜️

Eastern Gobi Desert

Vast stretches of arid steppe and shifting sand dunes as the flight leaves Mongolian airspace.

🌊

Yellow River Bend

The iconic 'U' shape of the Huang He river as it carves through the Loess Plateau.

🏙️

Zhengzhou Urban Sprawl

Aerial views of one of China's most significant central transportation hubs and its massive industrial zones.

⛰️

Dabie Mountains

The transition into lush, subtropical greenery over the forested peaks of central China.

🏗️

Shenzhen Skyline

A spectacular view of the Ping An Finance Centre and the dense high-rises bordering Hong Kong.

🌉

HK-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge

The world's longest sea-crossing bridge stretching across the Pearl River estuary on final approach.

Sit on the left to avoid the harsh glare of the sun on daytime flights heading south. If you are on an evening flight, the left side offers a stunning view of the neon-lit Shenzhen skyline just before crossing the border into Hong Kong. During winter months, watch for the stark contrast between the snow-dusted Mongolian steppe and the evergreen forests of southern China.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Bogd Khan Mountain

The sacred, forested mountain located immediately south of Ulaanbaatar visible right after takeoff.

🏜️

Ordos Plateau

Stark desert landscapes and the unique 'ghost city' architecture of Kangbashi visible from high altitude.

⛰️

Qinling Mountains

The massive mountain range that serves as the natural geographical dividing line between North and South China.

💧

Yangtze River Crossing

A view of the winding Yangtze River as it flows through the fertile plains of Hubei province.

⛰️

Nanling Mountains

Rugged, mist-covered limestone peaks that define the border of Guangdong province.

🏝️

Lantau Island

Views of the Tian Tan Buddha and the rugged hiking trails of Lantau if the flight approaches HKG from the west.

Choose the right side if you are flying during the late afternoon to catch a potential sunset over the Qinling Mountains. While this side may experience more sun glare, it offers better views of the high-altitude terrain in the first half of the flight. Keep an eye out for the massive Three Gorges Reservoir area, which can sometimes be spotted in the distance depending on the specific air corridor used.

Top Activities in Hong Kong
Route Information

Distance: 2,910 km (1,808 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 53 min

Departure: ULN (47.843102, 106.766998)

Arrival: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)

Route Type: International

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