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XIY → KHG
Which side of the plane to sit from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an) to Kashgar Airport (Kashi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the vast Taklamakan Desert and the majestic Kunlun mountain range that borders the Tibetan Plateau.
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Qilian Mountains
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Qilian range which forms the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau.
Taklamakan Desert
The world's second largest shifting sand desert features intricate, wind-sculpted star dunes and vast sand seas.
Kunlun Range
Near arrival, the massive glaciated peaks of the Kunlun Mountains dominate the southern horizon.
Hexi Corridor
Historic Silk Road oases appear as vibrant green patches amidst the surrounding brown and yellow desert.
Choose the left side for morning departures to minimize glare while viewing the southern mountain ranges. Mid-flight, look for the intricate dune patterns of the Taklamakan; low-angle morning sun creates dramatic shadows that highlight the desert's texture. In winter, the Qilian mountains are exceptionally white, providing high-contrast photography opportunities. Aim for a seat in front of the wing for the clearest view of the vast desert floor.
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Tianshan Mountains
Continuous views of the 'Celestial Mountains' with peaks exceeding 7,000 meters in height.
Gobi Plateaus
The rugged, rocky terrain of the northern desert stretches north towards the Mongolian border.
Turpan Basin
Visible to the north, this area contains the lowest point in China and unique red sandstone formations.
Kashgar Oasis
A striking transition as the barren desert suddenly gives way to a lush irrigation network upon descent.
The right side is spectacular during afternoon flights as the sun illuminates the Tianshan range to the north. You will witness the sharp transition from the rocky Gobi desert to the high Tianshan peaks. During the final approach into Kashgar, the contrast between the arid mountains and the fertile green delta is most pronounced from this side. Keep a lookout for the isolated canyons and dry riverbeds that carve through the northern plateaus.
Book Hotels in KashiDistance: 2,945 km (1,830 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 56 min
Departure: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Arrival: KHG (39.5429000854, 76.0199966431)
Route Type: Domestic
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