Book a trip from Auckland to Hyderabad with Cathay Pacific , fares from NZD1,960

Reaching downtown from Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is convenient, with several options available. Taxis are the most convenient, taking approximately 45 minutes from outside the terminal. For budget-conscious travellers, various bus routes offer an hour-long journey to downtown.

If you are a history lover, Charminar is a worthwhile choice when starting your holiday in Hyderabad. This iconic structure, built in 1591, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. With its stunning four minarets and intricate carvings, Charminar is a symbol of Hyderabad and a vibrant hub of activity. Visitors can explore the surrounding bustling markets, known for their diverse offerings, including traditional bangles, pearls, and local handicrafts. The nearby Laad Bazaar is particularly famous for its colourful bangles and is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. For a deeper understanding of the city’s history, consider visiting the nearby Mecca Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, located just a short walk from Charminar.

Chowmahalla Palace is a majestic reminder of the opulent lifestyle of the Nizams, the erstwhile rulers of Hyderabad. Nestled in a quiet corner of Motigalli in the bustling Old City, this grand palace complex served as the seat of power and grandeur for the Nizams, showcasing their passion for art, architecture, and culture. The palace stands as a testament to exquisite design and aesthetic brilliance, with sprawling courtyards, elegant halls, and exquisitely crafted interiors. Visitors can explore the heart of the palace, the Khilwat Mubarak, built between 1912 and 1916 by the Nizam VII, a magnificent structure that once hosted grand durbars and royal ceremonies. The palace houses a treasure trove of artefacts, including an impressive armoury, rare manuscripts, and a vast collection of books, offering deep insights into Hyderabad’s rich history and the legacy of its rulers.

As Asia's largest artificial lake, Hussain Sagar Lake holds significant historical and cultural importance, having been excavated in 1562 AD during Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah’s reign. Originally designed for irrigation and water supply, today it serves as a beautiful recreational spot surrounded by lush parks like Indira Park, Sanjeevaiah Park, and Lumbini Park. The lake’s centrepiece is the towering 16-metre-tall white granite statue of Lord Buddha, situated on the ‘Rock of Gibraltar.’ The statue is a breathtaking sight, especially when illuminated at night with a captivating light show. Visitors can enjoy various boating options, including speedboats, motorboats, and a 48-seater launch that offers dinner cruises and private parties. For thrill-seekers, parasailing and water skiing opportunities add extra excitement to the visit, though availability may vary.

Make your trip from Auckland to Hyderabad one to remember by booking luxury accommodation with Cathay Holidays. With us, you’ll discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and lounge access. Perched 609 metres above sea level, the Taj Falaknuma Palace features elegantly restored rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the city. Guests can indulge in royal experiences, such as horse-drawn carriage rides and personalised butler service, ensuring a regal stay. Dining at the palace is a highlight, with options like Adaa, which serves traditional Hyderabadi cuisine, and Celeste, known for its fine dining. Be sure to try the unique Afternoon High Tea at Gol Bungalow, where you can savour delightful treats while enjoying serene views. Nearby attractions include the historic Chowmohalla Palace and the serene Hussain Sagar Lake, perfect for boat rides and leisurely strolls. The vibrant Old City is also within reach, where you can explore local markets and sample delicious street food. For those seeking an affordable alternative, Bloom Hotel – HITEC City features modern, spacious rooms equipped with CloudBeds™ to ensure a restful sleep, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms with Grohe rain showers. Guests benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi and access to iMac workstations and co-working spaces, ideal for combining work and relaxation during their trip. The hotel's contemporary and trendy ambience, complemented by bright, clean, and hygienic spaces, makes it a popular option among both business and leisure guests. Friendly and attentive staff enhance the welcoming atmosphere, and the in-house restaurant serves delicious meals to satisfy a variety of tastes. By booking a holiday package or hotel through Cathay Holidays, you will be able to earn additional miles for your stay.

Hyderabad beckons food enthusiasts with its diverse array of restaurants that offer a fusion of culinary delights from around the globe. Known for its relaxed yet refined ambience, Olive Bistro & Bar has won numerous awards over the years, including Best European Cuisine and Best Bistro from the Times Food Awards. The spacious outdoor area with flower beds and cobblestone stairs complements the vibrant dining experience. Popular menu items to try include the Smoked Tomato and Charred Pepper Soup, as well as the shareable Spinach, Corn, and Potato Fritters. For vegetarians, the Vegetarian Mezze Board featuring hummus, tzatziki, falafel, and warm pita is highly recommended. Main courses like Basil Chicken Escalopes with grilled veggies and jus offer a comforting taste, while the indulgent Pan-Roasted Salmon with mashed potatoes is a favourite among seafood lovers. Vegetarians can enjoy the Cottage Cheese Su Piatto, a flavourful grilled paneer dish with couscous and vegetables, or the Super Bowl salad featuring kale, feta, pomegranate, and dates. To finish, the OB Sundae or the Tiramisu made with rum and filter coffee are delightful desserts. By day, Mindspace SOCIAL offers a cool, high-tech environment ideal for co-working with free Wi-Fi and exclusive workspaces, while by night it transforms into a buzzing lounge with live events and a dynamic party scene. The menu at Mindspace SOCIAL reflects a diverse, multi-cuisine approach. Popular dishes include The Mile High Club Veg Sandwich, layered with vegetables, cheese, and veggie patty served with fries, and the Bombay Bachelors Sandwich, filled with spicy Mumbai-style masala aloo bhaji and topped with mint chutney and sev. For non-vegetarians, the Mile High Club Chicken Sandwich is a favourite, stacked with chicken mayo, ham, fried egg, and cheese, served with fries.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Hyderabad.

• Currency: Indian Rupee (₹, INR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230v Type C, D, or M
• Time zone: GMT+5:30
• Language: Urdu, Hindi, and Telugu