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.

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.

Take to the skies for a scenic flight over a mesmerizing 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 flavors 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 harmonize mind and body, in preparation for the grand finale of your adventure.