Bhutan Trip Planning and What To Expect 

As we delve deeper into the wonders of this incredible country, we will diligently add more information to this comprehensive guide.

Our goal is to provide answers to a wide range of questions that cater to our trips that involve traveling, sightseeing, and of course, fishing.

ACCOMMODATION, HOTELS

Where will we be staying?
Camping tents when on the rivers and hotels in-between traveling

Beddings, pillows – Do we need to bring our own?
Individual tents, beddings, pillows will be provided. You may want to bring a light sleeping bag of your own if you think that’ll make you feel more comfortable.

CURRENCY, CASH, TIPS

ATM
ATMs are available in Bhutan, but some might not accept foreign credit or debit cards. We suggest exchanging US dollars in Paro or Thimphu.

Currency
How much pocket money should we carry in Bhutan? Only for souvenirs, snacks, that kind of things. All essentials are covered in the package. Local currency (BTN) referred as “Nu” are widely used. It’s best to carry some cash and either pay in USD or exchange your dollars into BTN in Bhutan.

FISHING, GEAR

Bugs, mosquitoes
There are the usual mosquitoes and at times, sand flies. They are usually not a problem. Bring bug repellent if you think you may need them.

Clothes
Usual wet wading attire. Nights may get chilly on the rivers, bring a jacket or something to keep warm in case.

Long pants for visiting places of worship. 

Bring a headlamp.

Drones
Drones are prohibited in Bhutan. Flying a drone results in confiscation and penalties.

Footwear 
We are mostly walking on dry rocky river banks under normal conditions. Rubber sole boots are recommended as stealthy approach on the riverbanks are necessary. Felt sole shoes are allowed. 

Landing nets
Guides will be equipped with landing nets

Fishing from land vs rafts
We fish on foot around the campsite in the mornings and evenings. In-between, we are rafting down the rivers and fishing. PFDs are provided.

Flies

• Hook size 2/0-3/0
• Length 2-4 in
• Colours olive, brown, black
• Patterns: Clouser, Sculpin with flash, Poppers, Crease fly, Game changer (olive/black), Gummy minnows

Lines, leaders, rods

• Lines. Fast sink tip (7ips), intermediate sink tip, floating
• Tippet size/leader 25 lb and above
• Rod. Recommended, 8wt-10wt / two-handed

Season
March 1 – May 15
September – October 

Species
Golden mahseer, chocolate mahseer, brown trout, snow trout

Sleeping bag
Although tent, mat and pillow are provided, I bring my own light sleeping bag. In case of cool nights and it’s just nice crawling into my own private little space.

Waders
No waders for mahseer rivers, wet wading only. We try not to wade in the rivers if possible to avoid spooking the mahseer. Water temperature is about 20ºC in spring time.

What gear can we bring on the raft?
2 rods and fishing accessories. Other gear will travel in another raft when transitioning between campsites.

Will we need waterproof luggage? Will our bags get wet moving in-between campsites?
On fishing days when you go on the rafts on the river, you will only have your fishing gear with you. Your main bag and luggage will travel with the crew in other rafts

A thick plastic sheet will be used to bundle the luggage. Close to being completely waterproof. If your main luggage is waterproof, they’re definitely preferred.

*When on rivers/campsites we will only have fishing gear and clothing. Main luggage will stay with the van which we will have access to when changing rivers/locations, duration ranging from 2 to 3 days on each river.

Bhutan Packing List

The following is what I packed for our first fly fishing expedition to Bhutan which was during spring period. Weather is cool where you first land in the country, Paro and Thimphu, and later depart from. It is much warmer in the souther parts of the country if you’re fishing for golden mahseer.

Fly fishing gear 

• Rods: 8–9 weight rod is recommended for golden mahseer.
• Reels and line: Reel size and line weight should match your rods selection. Bring floating lines for dry fly and shallower waters. We actually had a lot of fish taking our hopper flies. Sinking or sink tip lines will be needed to get streamer flies down deep for mahseer. As always practice casting your setups and flies before the trip, plus ensure your reels and fly lines are in good condition. Spare rods and reels are highly recommended.
• Waders and boots: You will rarely get into the waters when fly fishing for mahseer so waders and wading boots are not necessary. We were mainly fishing from rocky riverbanks and in inflatable rafts.
• Flies, leaders, and tippet: Pack a selection of streamer and hopper flies. We were mainly using 20-30 lb tippet and leaders. Your guide will likely have a good idea of what works, but it’s best to bring some of your own, especially for specific patterns you want to try.
• Fishing accessories: Polarized sunglasses (with a spare pair), hat for sun protection, and a day pack or fanny pack are also essential. 

Apparel 

• Pack a high-quality, waterproof rain jacket just in case.
• Clothing layers: Bring extra clothing layers, long-sleeve shirts, and warm socks, as temperatures can change. Quick-drying materials are ideal.
• Footwear: Besides wading/fishing boots/shoes, pack comfortable shoes for non-fishing activities.
• Hats and gloves: A hat that provides sun protection is necessary.

Other essentials 

• Sun protection: Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and polarized sunglasses are critical for protection from the sun.
• Insect repellent: Bring insect repellent to protect against bugs. We did not personally encountered much issues with bugs during our trip.
• Personal items: Pack your personal hygiene supplies, any necessary prescriptions, and a first-aid kit.
• Miscellaneous: Camera or your smartphone camera, a flashlight or headlamp, and reading materials if you’re someone who likes to read in between the traveling.
• Cash: Carry enough cash for any purchases you plan to make. Many places we were at do not accept cards.
• Hiking stick if that helps with your hiking and you can also use it during the Taktsang hike which I highly recommend that you should experience.

GETTING THERE

Is Visa required to visit Bhutan?
Yes, Visa is required.

Flights
There are only two airlines flying into Bhutan, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines from limited destinations.

Both Visa and flight tickets can be arranged for you.

TRAVELING

Altitude Medication?
Usually not required for most people. Resting and drinking plenty of water will help prevent the effects of being at high altitude. We strongly advise you to consult your physician regarding any potential concerns. We recommend that our tour participants possess a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Languages spoken in Bhutan?
The national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.

Phone/Internet Coverage 
Decent coverage. Even when out of the city. Off and on when fishing.

Power plug, Adapters
Three different electrical plugs are used throughout Bhutan: the British plug, the European plug and the Indian plug. It’s a good idea to bring adaptors for all three.

WEATHER

Weather like in Bhutan and best time to visit?
Because of the range of altitudes in Bhutan, the climate is varied. 

In the south, the humid, subtropical temperatures range between 15ºC and 30ºC much through the year. 

Central Bhutan has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. 

The northern regions are much colder during winter. Mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer. 

Monsoon season runs from late June to late September.

Best weather is generally March mid-April.

Elevation 
Mahseer rivers in the southern Bhutan are 150-200m above sea level. Road trips will involve traveling over passes up to 3000m.

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Please CONTACT US if you have any questions.