URC → BPL

Bogda Peak

The massive snow-capped summit of the eastern Tianshan range, clearly visible shortly after takeoff from Urumqi.

Tianshan Glaciers

High-altitude ice fields and jagged ridges stretching along the southern horizon for the majority of the flight.

Deep Gorges

Dramatic river valleys carved into the mountain foothills by glacial meltwater flowing toward the basin.

Mountain Forests

Thick belts of dark green spruce forests that transition into alpine meadows as the elevation rises.

Gurbantünggüt Desert

The southern fringes of China's second-largest desert, showing vast stretches of arid landscape to the north.

Agricultural Oasis

Vast, organized grids of cotton and beet fields near Shihezi and Kuitun, illustrating impressive desert reclamation.

Ebinur Lake

A massive, shallow saltwater lake that serves as a focal point during the descent into Bole, often reflecting vibrant colors.

Alataw Pass

The famous 'wind gate' mountain gap on the Kazakhstan border, identifiable by the concentration of wind turbines.