Bhutan as a fishing destination is one of the world’s best-kept secrets. Bhutan, a land-locked kingdom high in the Himalayas, was closed to the outside world for centuries and its wonders remained a mystery. Certainly hardly anyone had any idea that it was a magnificent place for fly-fishing; some lucky people have been admitted to the secret in recent times.

TROUT’S JOURNEY – FROM UK TO BHUTAN

Brown trout were taken from Loch Leven, in the form of eggs packed in ice, to Kashmir, to Assam and finally to Bhutan in the late 19th century. Loch Leven is now polluted and shrunken, but the trout have flourished in Bhutan, as also in other parts of the world where Victorians took trout so that they could indulge their passion for fly-fishing. Seeded first into streams in the west of Bhutan, they were gradually taken east, as far as the Tang Chu river, now the best trout stream in the country. Fly-fishing parties have been experiencing the unique joy of fishing in this paradisiacal setting since the mid-1980s.

No comprehensive survey of the other fish species has been undertaken, but about forty species have been recorded, and new species are discovered every year. Fishing spots range from crystal-clear streams, fed by springs, to broad rivers, at altitudes ranging from 1,200 metres above sea level to 3,000 metres. As well as the brown trout, the snow trout (belonging to the carp family) is to be found in plenty. The best times for fishing are in spring (from March to May) and autumn (September to November).

WHERE TO GO FLY-FISHING IN BHUTAN

The Punakha valley, where the Pho Chu and Punatsang Chu rivers run, is more challenging than other places in Bhutan, but the biggest fish in the country are found there. The beautiful Nikka Chu, set amid stunning scenery, is one of the best fly-fishing areas.

WHAT TO SEE IN BHUTAN

Of course fishing is not all that Bhutan has to offer. Haa is not only a splendid fishing destination, but it also has some very old gompas (monasteries), lhakhangs (temples) and dzongs (sturdy fortresses). Throughout this magical country, roadside shrines, golden-topped temples, stands of prayer flags and monasteries clinging to the sides of sheer cliffs, as well as breathtaking landscapes of magnificent mountains, beautiful rivers and picturesque lakes all contribute to making a visit here an unforgettable experience. Much of its existing culture is well over a thousand years old and there are many historic sites, exotic festivals, captivating villages and charming towns to enjoy.

WHAT TO DO IN BHUTAN

Other activities include trekking, hiking, camping (under traditional Bhutanese tents) and sightseeing. Some tour operators will provide you with your own off-road car, guide and cook. The towns in Bhutan - Paro, Thimphu (the capital), Wangdi Phodrang, Tongsa and Bumthang – are well worth exploring too. The Punakha valley possesses enormous historical significance, featuring perhaps the most impressive dzong in the country. The Punakha dzong, dating from 1637, was the winter residence of the central monk body, a religious and administrative centre and strategically built, at the junction of two rivers, for defence against the Tibetans, before Thimpu became the capital in 1955. Punakha Dzong houses sacred temples including the Marchen, where the embalmed body of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal lies in the state. Paro is one of the holiest and most fertile, as well as the most populated places in the country. The valley of Paro contains a wealth of attractions including the elegant and perfectly symmetrical Rinpung dzong, which stands above the town of Paro.

WHERE TO BEGIN IN BHUTAN

Thimphu is a bustling town on the banks of its own river and nestling in the hills of its own valley. It is home to the revered Bhutanese royal family: on the bank of the river lies Tashichho dzong, the main secretariat building, which houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

WHERE TO FIND YOUR BEST FISHING HOLIDAY?

In short, fishing or no fishing, Bhutan is an incomparable destination for adventure travellers.

Submitted by: Harish Kohli Harish Kohli is an adventurer, explorer and a travel expert. His http://AwimAway.com, is the best place to look for Bhutan holidays. Here you can find walking, climbing, culture and fishing tours in Bhutan. http://www.awimaway.com is UK-based and promotes low-footprint adventure and experiential holidays