Hidden within Bhutan's spectacular Royal Manas National Park, Manas River Lodge offers one of the world's premier destinations for fly or spin fishing the legendary golden mahseer. Nestled along the legendary Mangde Chhu River, Bhutan's first and only dedicated fly-fishing lodge provides immediate access to one of the Himalayas' most pristine river systems. Anglers enjoy six days of guided fishing for golden mahseer and chocolate mahseer while staying in comfortable riverside bungalows amidst breathtaking scenery. These trips include challenging whitewater and Class III and possibly Class IV rapids.
Quick Facts - Manas River Lodge
Season: March to May and October to November.
12 Days / 11 Nights (All-Inclusive in Bhutan)
7 nights at the Lodge and 6 days of guided fly or spin fishing
2 full days of guided tours to monasteries and more.
Includes helicopter flights to and from the Lodge
2027 Rates:
Angler: $14,450 per person (includes $500 Conservation Fee)
Group Size: Limited to 6 anglers and 12 guests total.
Three of the Kingdom's Most Productive Rivers
Manas River Lodge offers guided fishing on three of the kingdom's most productive rivers, allowing guides to select the most productive water based on current conditions. Fishing Regulations: Bhutan maintains strict conservation regulations. Fishing is catch-and-release only. Only single, barbless hooks are permitted, while treble hooks and all natural or artificial bait are prohibited. All fish must be released immediately using proper fish-handling techniques. Fishing is allowed only between sunrise and sunset; fishing after dark is not permitted. Two Seasons: The Lodge has two seasons - spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November).
Golden Mahseer
Anglers and Guide Bobby Saptal with a Golden Mahseer
Golden Mahseer: Nicknamed the Tigers of the River, the Golden Mahseer is native to the Himalayan region and is one of the most coveted species in the fly-fishing world. Mahseer are one of the world's best hard-fighting freshwater fish, known for trophy runs, and are found in both deep pools and rapids. The current IGFA world record is 56 pounds, landed by Bobby Saptal, one of the program's guides. Mahseer have a keen sense of smell; it's best to rinse your fly downstream before fishing for them. All flies should be tied on the strongest possible hooks, as larger fish often straighten hooks.
Other Species
Guide Bobby Saptal with a Chocolate Mahseer
Chocolate Mahseer are equally fierce on a hook and weigh up to 15 pounds, accounting for about three-quarters of Bhutan's mahseer species. Himalayan Brown Trout were introduced to Bhutan in the 1930s. They thrive in the colder, higher-elevation rivers and occasionally weigh up to five pounds. Snow Trout are a rare and striking native species that are challenging to land on a fly. They typically surface at dawn and dusk and can weigh up to 10 pounds. Itineraries that include snow and brown trout are available upon request.
The Fishing Program
Guides: Bhutanese-certified, English-speaking guides are well-trained in both fly fishing and spin fishing techniques, skilled in swift-water rescue, and follow best practices for fish handling. Rafts: 14- to 16-foot NRS rafts with fishing frames. Two anglers and one guide per raft, with space for both anglers to fish simultaneously. Depending on water conditions and fishing opportunities, each day combines floating productive river sections with guided walk-and-wade fishing. For this trip, you'll encounter rapids mostly up to Class III, but it’s possible to encounter Class IV, depending on weather/river conditions. Because there is a road that parallels the river, the guides can avoid the largest rapids by driving between put-ins/take-outs. Travel Time: Guides will drive you from the Lodge to the put-ins, with travel times ranging from 5 to 30 minutes. Methods: Swing baitfish patterns from shore, as well as cast-and-strip presentations toward riverbanks while floating. Fishing Equipment: No fishing equipment or flies are provided. Our confirmation packet includes a detailed list of what to bring. Fishing License: A Bhutan recreational fishing permit is included in the package.
Your 12-Day Bhutan Adventure
Getting to Bhutan
Quick Overview: You'll arrive in Paro and spend two days exploring western Bhutan, including Tiger's Nest Monastery, Dochu La Pass, and Punakha, before flying by helicopter to Manas River Lodge for a seven-night stay that includes six full days of guided fishing. After your fishing adventure, you'll spend a final night in Thimphu before departing from Bhutan.
Day 1 – Arrive in Paro
You'll arrive at Paro International Airport, where you'll be met by the outfitter and transferred to Tiger's Nest Monastery for a scenic day hike. That evening, you'll stay at a standard hotel in Paro (included in the package). Upgraded accommodations can be arranged in advance for an additional cost.
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Day 2 – Explore Western Bhutan After breakfast, you'll depart Paro and enjoy a scenic drive to the spectacular Dochula Pass, more than 10,000 feet above sea level. You'll stop for tea, coffee, and light refreshments while taking in panoramic Himalayan views before continuing to Punakha. After checking into your hotel and enjoying lunch, you'll visit the beautiful Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most historic and photogenic fortresses. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.
Punakha Dzong
Day 3 – Fly to Manas River Lodge
After breakfast, you'll board a helicopter for the scenic 50-minute flight to Manas River Lodge. Upon arrival, you'll settle into your riverside accommodations and enjoy a warm Bhutanese welcome. Before dinner, you'll have the opportunity to play the traditional outdoor dart game (khuru), try your hand at archery—Bhutan's national sport—or relax with cocktails and appetizers before a chef-prepared dinner. Days 4–9 – Guided Fly or Spin Fishing
You'll enjoy six full days of guided fishing on the Mangde Chhu River and its tributaries, returning each evening to the comfort of Manas River Lodge. The non-angler can enjoy temple visits, village tours, birding outings, day hikes, and a tour of Royal Manas National Park. Rafting services for non-anglers can be organized upon request. Day 10 – Fly to Thimphu
After breakfast, you'll depart the Lodge for the nearby village of Pantang, about five minutes away, where you'll board a helicopter for the approximately 45-minute flight to Thimphu, where you'll spend the next two nights. After checking into your hotel, you'll spend the afternoon exploring Bhutan's capital. Highlights may include the world's largest statue of the Sitting Buddha, the Farmers Market, the National Archery Grounds, and local shopping. Day 11 is spent in Thimphu. Day 12 – Depart Bhutan
After breakfast, the group will be driven from Thimphu to Paro International Airport. The drive typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on road and traffic conditions, for your departing flight. Helicopter Transfers:
The outfitter provides helicopter transportation to and from Manas River Lodge. Each one-way flight typically accommodates up to three guests with their fishing gear. Alternatively, four guests with day packs may travel together while their luggage is transported by vehicle and delivered to Thimphu within 24 hours after departing the Lodge.
A Typical Fishing Day
6:00 a.m. - Coffee is ready. 6:30 a.m. - Breakfast is served. 7:00 a.m. - Depart for the day’s adventure. You’ll either launch from the Lodge or be driven to the day’s designated put-in. Noon - Pause from fishing for a riverside lunch. 4:00 p.m. - Return to the Lodge from the take-out point. 6:00 p.m. - Appetizers in the lounge, followed by a chef-prepared dinner.
Golden Mahseer Fishing
Manas River Lodge
Manas River Lodge rests on the banks of the legendary Mangde Chhu River within Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan's oldest national park and one of the Himalayas' most pristine river systems. Bordering India's UNESCO-listed Manas National Park, this remarkable wilderness is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, providing an unforgettable backdrop for six days of guided fishing. Lodge Capacity: Limited to 6 anglers and 12 guests total.
Wildlife: The Lodge's remarkable wilderness setting is home to Asian elephants, one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, leopards, wild water buffalo, primates, and hundreds of bird and butterfly species.
Meals: Enjoy chef-prepared meals in the main lodge and a bar and lounge with river views. Bhutanese cuisine is flavorful and relatively spicy.
Beverages are included: Local spirits, beer, and wine are provided at the Lodge in addition to sodas, mixers, and bottled water. You can purchase alcohol at duty-free shops en route or upon landing in Bhutan to bring with you if desired.
Six Riverside Bungalows
Six private riverside bungalows with queen beds, ensuite bathrooms, electricity, Starlink Wi-fi, and river views. Communications: Enjoy reliable Starlink Wi-Fi at the Lodge. The outfitter provides eSIM cards for cellular and internet connectivity as part of all angling packages. While the service is mostly reliable, it may be intermittent or unavailable in some areas.
Riverside Lunches
The Lodge Staff
Helicopter Transfers Included
The package includes helicopter transport to and from Manas River Lodge. The itinerary includes a 45-minute transfer from Punakha to Manas River Lodge and a return flight from the Lodge to Thimphu following your fishing adventure.
2026 and 2027 Packages
2026 and 2027 USD Rates Season: March to May and October to November
11-night and 12-days (All-Inclusive in Bhutan)
6 days guided fishing + 3 full tour days Lodging: 7-nights at the Lodge + 4 hotel nights
Angler Rate: $13,950 + $500 Conservation Fee = $14,450 per person Non-angler Rate: $13,250 + $500 Conservation Fee = $13,750 per person Looking for a more adventurous experience? See our Bhutan Float Trip Expedition.
The Packages Include:
• Meet and greet at Paro International Airport
• Bhutanese visa and route permits
• All necessary ground transfers in Bhutan, per itinerary (11 nights Lodging:)
• First night hotel in Paro
• 1 hotel night in Punakha
• 7 nights at Manas River Lodge
• 2 hotel nights in Thimphu
• Two private helicopter transfers
• Starlink Wi-Fi at the Lodge
• All meals as specified in your itinerary
• Sodas, mixers, and bottled water at the Lodge
• Local spirits, beer, and wine at the Lodge
• 6 days guided fishing
• A Bhutan fishing permit and launch permits
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
• Guided tours to Tiger's Nest monastery, Punakha Dzong, and more
The Packages Do Not Include:
• International airfare to and from Bhutan
• Additional hotel nights
• Alcoholic beverages, except for Druk beer
• Fishing equipment (fly or spin outfits, tippet, leaders, flies, lures, etc.)
• Gratuities for guides and staff
• Community Conservation Fee, $500 per person
• Mandatory medical evacuation coverage
• Travel insurance
• Any items not listed under Inclusions.
Mandatory Medical Evacuation Coverage: All guests are required by the Bhutanese government to obtain comprehensive medical evacuation coverage. We recommend Global Rescue.
Our Outfitter's Policies:
Mandatory Release Form: A signed Waiver of Liability is required with your deposit. This legal agreement releases the outfitter from responsibility for any accidents or injuries that may occur during your trip.
Community Conservation Fee (CCF): A required donation of $500 per person (payable with final invoice) is managed by the outfitter to support conservation projects in Bhutanese riverside communities. The CCF helps protect fisheries, enhance the angling experience, and foster local stewardship of river resources.
The Outfitter's Deposit Policy: Bookings are confirmed with a 50% non-refundable deposit and the completion/submission of all booking contracts and required paperwork. Reserved bookings that are not confirmed by the receipt of a 50% non-refundable deposit and completed paperwork within 14 days of the reservation may be canceled. Full and final payment is due 90 days in advance of all booked excursions.
Cancellation Policy: Upon cancellation by guests, the outfitter will work to rebook the angler within the next 12 months and will hold the angler's deposit until rebooking is completed. If anglers do not rebook an excursion within 12 months, payment will be retained by the outfitter.
Travel Insurance: Fishing with Larry strongly recommends purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes trip cancellation coverage and Global Rescue (medical evacuation coverage). Visit our Travel Insurance page.
Fishing with Larry Payment Options: 1.) Credit Card: A 2.5% convenience fee applies for all credit card transactions. 2.) Check: Please include your invoice number in the memo. Mail checks to Fishing with Larry P.O. Box 419 Columbus, MT 59019. 3.) Wire Transfer: Send money electronically. Typical fees are approximately $15–$30 for domestic transfers and $45–$50 for international transfers. Please email Toni at toni@fishingwithlarry.com for wire instructions. 4. Please review our Travel Terms & Disclaimers before submitting your deposit.
