Bhutan's Catch and Release: Angling for Golden Mahseer

Explore Bhutan’s wilder side on an action-packed adventure, where a unique opportunity to be one of the first to experience fly-fishing in the Land of the Thunder Dragon awaits. Visit the last strongholds for these remarkable carp, where Bhutan's Royal family, in collaboration with WWF, are championing sustainable fishing through tourism.

 

When to go
Apr-May, Sep-Oct
From Price
£15,600*
Ideal Length
8 nights

Experience Highlights

  • Embark on an exhilarating adventure of Golden Mahseer catch-and-release fishing along the untouched rivers of Bhutan, led by an expert angling guide.
  • Navigate the winding rivers on an action-packed rafting adventure, tackling rapids and glimpsing resident wildlife along the riverbanks.
  • Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture with an intimate dinner in a nearby village, meeting locals and learning about traditional customs and history.
  • Venture out for an epic trek to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff in the heart of Bhutan, an architectural marvel steeped in spirituality.

This adventure begins in Paro, where you will be welcomed by a local guide, ready to begin your captivating journey into Bhutan's cultural heritage with a visit to Bhutan’s National Museum. After exploring the exhibits featuring traditional art, religious treasures, and historical artifacts, indulge in a heart-warming, home-cooked lunch at Aum Deki's Heritage Farm Home, your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine. This evening, following your arrival at the striking Six Senses Thimphu, where you will meet with a conservation expert from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), who will enlighten you on the incredible work being done to protect and raise awareness for these rare Bhutanese fish (the Mahseer) over a delicious dinner.

This morning, board your waiting helicopter and head for Sunkosh, where you will begin your thrilling rafting expedition. Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping experience with Class 2-3 rapids, as well as the chance to attempt some white-water fishing, immersing yourself in the challenge and excitement of reeling in the elusive Golden Mahseer and the captivating Chocolate Mahseer, both thriving in the river basin. This evening, a private luxury tented camp will be set up just for you to spend the evening under the Bhutanese stars.

Today, set sail on an oxbow chhu (river), navigating the twists and turns while keeping a lookout for glimpses of monkeys, the Golden Langur, elephants, and majestic Sambar deer, all the while trying your luck at catch-and-release fishing at strategically chosen spots. With some expert guidance and natural talent, you will reel in a Golden Mahseer, before returning them to their natural habitat. Upon arriving at the Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary National Park, enjoy your last day on the river, before heading for dinner with a local village family and indulging in traditional drinks (tongba) whilst getting to know more about the family and their incredible way of life.

Take to the skies for a scenic flight over a mesmerising tapestry of emerald valleys, ancient monasteries, and hidden waterfalls, before arriving at Punkaha River Lodge, your base for the next part of this exhilarating exploration. Begin with a reflective temple hike through whitewashed homesteads and farmland to Khamsum Yulley Namgay Chorten, a magnificent temple boasting a rainbow of Guru Rinpoche images and superb views of the Punakha Valley. Prepare yourself for an afternoon of participating in a fully decorated archery match, an incredible local experience. For the Bhutanese, archery takes on a spiritual form, as the sport is prevalent in many myths and legends, and arrows are often left as tributes and offerings to local gods.

 This morning, travel back to the enchanting town of Paro, where Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary awaits. Indulge in a charming four-course garden-to-table lunch, immersing your senses in the flavours of Bhutanese cuisine against a backdrop of lush surroundings. Elevate your well-being with a herbal treatment by a traditional wellness practitioner, embracing ancient techniques that harmonise mind and body, in preparation for the grand finale of your adventure.

Conclude your transformative journey with a three-hour trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery, perched on the cliffs of Paro. Delve into the spiritual realm as you enter the sacred cave beneath the monastery, a space steeped in centuries of mysticism. Amidst the grandeur of this landscape, enjoy a mountainside picnic, immersing yourself in the serenity of Bhutan’s nature and taking a moment to reflect on the richness of your experience here.

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