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URC → HTN
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Hotan Airport (Hotan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views of the high Tian Shan peaks shortly after takeoff and a spectacular panorama of the Kunlun Mountains upon arrival in Hotan.
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Tian Shan Glaciers
Directly cross the central Tian Shan range with views of massive ice fields and rugged vertical relief.
Tarim Basin Transition
Observe the dramatic geological shift from the red-tinted mountain foothills to the flat desert floor.
Yurungkash River
The 'White Jade River' is visible snaking through the desert landscape as you approach Hotan.
Kunlun Mountain Range
As the plane descends, the massive, dark walls of the Kunlun Mountains rise sharply to the south.
The right side provides better views of the high glaciers of the Tian Shan. For the best visibility, choose a morning flight to avoid the dust and heat haze that often accumulates in the Tarim Basin by afternoon. In winter, the contrast between the snow and the desert sand is particularly striking.
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Urumqi Skyline
A clear view of the dense urban sprawl of Xinjiang's capital immediately after departure from Diwopu.
Bogda Peak
Look east to see the prominent snow-capped 5,445m summit of the eastern Tian Shan range.
Taklamakan Vastness
Infinite views of the 'Sea of Death' with complex sand dune patterns stretching toward the horizon.
Southern Silk Road Oases
Occasional glimpses of green ribbons where ancient trade route towns sit at the desert's edge.
The left side is excellent for catching the sunrise on early morning flights, highlighting the textures of the sand dunes. However, during midday, the sun may cause significant glare on this side.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 998 km (620 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: HTN (37.03850173950195, 79.86489868164062)
Route Type: Domestic
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