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XNN → LXA
Which side of the plane to sit from Xining Caojiabu Airport (Xining) to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (Lhasa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of iconic landmarks, including an early view of Qinghai Lake, the vast expanse of the Hoh Xil wilderness, and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Namtso Lake shortly before landing.
Search flights from XNN to LXA
Qinghai Lake
Shortly after takeoff, witness the massive, deep-blue expanse of China's largest inland saltwater lake.
Kunlun Mountain Range
Fly over the 'Spine of Asia,' featuring permanent glaciers and some of the most remote terrain on Earth.
Hoh Xil Wilderness
Scan the vast, uninhabited brown and gold plains of the Kekexili plateau, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Namtso Lake
One of the most beautiful sights in Tibet, this 'Heavenly Lake' appears as a brilliant sapphire gem framed by the Nyenchen Tanglha mountains.
Tanggula Pass
Cross over the highest point of the journey where the mountains remain snow-covered year-round.
Secure a window seat on the right for the iconic view of Namtso Lake approximately 20-30 minutes before arrival. Choose a flight departing before 10:00 AM to minimize the chances of afternoon cloud cover obscuring the peaks and lakes. Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to cut the high-altitude haze and reflection from the window.
Book Hotels in LhasaAmne Machin Range
Spot the jagged, snow-capped peaks of this sacred mountain range early in the flight.
Yellow River Headwaters
Glance down at the intricate network of streams and high-altitude wetlands forming the source of the Great Yellow River.
Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Look for the world's highest track snaking through the desolate plateau landscape alongside the highway.
Lhasa River Valley
During descent, enjoy views of the fertile valley floors and traditional Tibetan villages nestled along the Yarlung Tsangpo.
The left side is exceptional for viewing the high-altitude wetlands and the approach into the Lhasa valley. Morning flights provide soft lighting that accentuates the mountain textures without harsh glare.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,312 km (815 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 45 min
Departure: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)
Arrival: LXA (29.2978000641, 90.9119033813)
Route Type: Domestic
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