Fisherman Canoe Ride on Castlereagh Reservoir

The Castlereagh Reservoir is one of the most serene components of our valley, and it stretches itself for 7 kilometres between steep mountains cloaked in fields of tea. Getting out on the water is a tranquil way to take in this stunning landscape and exploring the reservoir in a traditional canoe with a local fisherman makes this a special experience. The boat ride is gentle and peaceful. You could enjoy a short circuit or a longer one, as you travel almost silently, across the still water of the lake.

Travelling in a traditional canoe makes this a quiet and sustainable way of experiencing the reservoir, and by partaking in this, you are directly supporting the livelihoods of local fishermen and their families. The canoes are predominantly used to transport villagers and school children across the valley; therefore, the experience takes place only twice per day, from 9:00am to 12:00 noon and again from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. The walk to the canoe from the bungalow is a 20-minute stroll downhill and you’ll be accompanied by a butler.

You’ll pass through a school and cricket ground located on the edge of the reservoir before meeting the fisherman. The Castlereagh Reservoir is as atmospheric and magical on a clear and sunny day, as it is on a misty, overcast evening. This stunning reservoir is also home to elusive Eurasian otters.