b27b and powerball:

I don't know where you guys live but if you live in California then I have some previous experience flying Kathmandu 3rd week of December and returning 3rd or 4th week of January (even first week of February) twice with Thai Airlines (SFO-LAX-BKK-KTM, $2,208 & $1,935) and once with Cathy Pacific + Dragon Air (SFO-HKK-KTM, $2,051). Besides this, I have flown with other airlines in different time and if you need more info then I can give to you.

[Plane fares above include all the taxes, fuel and surcharges. Tickets were booked 2-3 months in advance.]

Things to be noted:

- Airlines' peak season (starts from Dec. 2nd week and ends in Feb 1st week, +/- one week),  so that fare is always high because it is considered as 'holiday' season.

- We Nepalese have bad habit of 'management' (we make decision in the last minute) so all the cheap seats were sold 6-7 months in advance and we ended up with high priced premium seats; which are sold in last minute by airlines to make money. So, it is advised from my travel agents to book Dec. ticket as early as 6-7 month at least.

- If you are a frequent flyer; then provide your card number (depending on which airlines you fly) to your travel agent so that you get priority getting your ticket booked, also you can carry up to 10KG extra luggage depending on airlines.

Travel Agents I have used in California:

1. Holiday Adventure Travel; 1-800-559-5513 (I like this one)

2. Third Eye Travel; 1-800-456-3393

  Good luck