Planning a trip from Auckland to Kathmandu? You're in for a treat. Kathmandu, nestled in the Himalayas, is a city of ancient temples, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. It attracts travellers from around the globe who are captivated by its iconic landmarks, rich history, and stunning landscapes. Whether you're drawn to the spiritual serenity of Boudhanath Stupa, the historical grandeur of Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the adventurous trekking opportunities in the surrounding mountains, Kathmandu offers a diverse range of experiences.

Flights from Auckland to Kathmandu typically take around 12-14 hours non-stop, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and flight routes. Direct flights are offered by several major airlines, including Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific, usually with a daily or several weekly services. If no direct flights are available, you might find it cheaper to consider flights with one or more stopovers in major hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok, but this obviously extends the journey.

To secure the best deals, it's recommended to book flights during the off-peak seasons. Generally, February, June, and December offer the cheapest flights. Booking several weeks or months in advance can also help secure better deals, especially during peak season, though there are fewer crowds during the quieter periods. Kathmandu experiences peak tourist season between October and December, while the quieter months are February, June, and December, impacted by weather patterns and local events. The ideal months for budget travellers to visit are February, June and December when you can find some great deals on flights.

Kathmandu's climate is influenced by its location in the Himalayas. Summers (June-August) are warm and wet, with temperatures averaging between 20-29°C, and high humidity, featuring monsoonal rains. Winters (December-February) are dry and cool, with temperatures generally between 2-15°C. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures, clear skies and lower humidity, ranging from 10-27°C. Extreme weather events are rare, however, heavy rainfall can occur during the monsoon season. Spring and autumn offer the most consistently enjoyable weather.

Auckland has two main international airports that serve commercial flights: Auckland Airport (AKL) and Ardmore Airport (ACM).

Auckland Airport (AKL)

Auckland Airport, the largest airport in New Zealand, is a major international hub that opened in 1966. It handles millions of passengers annually and offers a wide array of facilities. It has a large number of airlines, flights and passengers flying daily. It's a modern airport with multiple terminals and has recently undergone several renovations. This is an international airport.

Ardmore Airport (ACM)

Ardmore Airport is a smaller, general aviation airport. Mainly used for domestic flights and non-scheduled services, it has a smaller scale, primarily focusing on private and business aviation.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Cathay Pacific
• Singapore Airlines

Kathmandu is primarily served by one international airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). There are no other currently operating commercial airports in Kathmandu.

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport in Nepal. Opened in 1972, it serves as the main gateway for tourists. To reach the city centre, you can use various options like taxis, private cars, or public transport buses. The airport itself is somewhat outdated in its facilities but serves millions of passengers yearly.

Kathmandu is a captivating city offering a rich tapestry of experiences. It's a city steeped in history and spirituality.

• Visit the Boudhanath Stupa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this massive Buddhist stupa is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and a centre of Buddhist pilgrimage.
• Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square: This ancient royal square showcases stunning architecture, temples, and palaces, offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich history.
• Hike to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa commands panoramic views of Kathmandu valley and is famed for its resident monkey population.