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URC → DNH
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Dunhuang Airport (Dunhuang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled view of the dramatic shift from the Tianshan mountain range into the Turpan Depression and the vast sand dunes of the Kumtag Desert.
Search flights from URC to DNH
Flaming Mountains
Striking red sandstone hills near Turpan that appear to glow under the desert sun.
Ayding Lake
The lowest point in China, visible as a vast, white salt-encrusted basin.
Kumtag Desert
Massive, rhythmic sand dunes that mark the edge of the Taklamakan region.
Qilian Mountains
Snow-capped peaks lining the southern horizon as the flight nears the Gansu border.
Yardang Formations
Unique wind-eroded geological structures visible as you descend toward Dunhuang.
This is the prime side for geological photography. Morning flights are ideal to see the textures of the sand dunes and the red hues of the Flaming Mountains. Look for the ancient Karez irrigation channels near Turpan—they appear as lines of small dots on the ground.
Book Hotels in DunhuangBogda Peak
The highest summit in the eastern Tianshan range, often covered in year-round snow and ice.
Junggar Basin Edge
Views of the arid plains and transition zones stretching toward the northern borders.
Hami Oasis
A significant green patch in the desert landscape, known for its agricultural importance.
Gobi Plateaus
Rugged, rocky desert terrain that characterizes the northern section of the Hexi Corridor.
Sit toward the front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Afternoon flights provide better lighting for the Tianshan peaks on this side without the direct glare of the sun.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 735 km (457 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: DNH (40.16109848022461, 94.80919647216795)
Route Type: Domestic
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