Shopping in Bhutan feels like stepping into a different world. Forget your typical malls – here you'll wander through colourful weekend markets where the air smells of chillies and incense, and vendors chat over steaming cups of butter tea.
You can't leave without purchasing a stunning handwoven kira or gho. The traditional clothing is an art form, and observing the weavers at work is hypnotic. Prayer wheels, wooden masks, and yak wool blankets are also amazing mementoes that truly count for something.
The best part? Haggling with shopkeepers who'll invite you for tea while showing off their crafts. It's shopping with heart and soul.
Shopping in Bhutan is one of the many fun Things to do in Bhutan. Between temples and trekking to Tiger's Nest, you'll need to bask in each second.
That's why our Bhutan Tour Packages leave you with ample time to shop your way through this phenomenal country, as well as unforgettable experiences – because rushing through this incredible nation would be a crime.
What to Shop in Bhutan: A Detailed Guide
When you think about Shopping in Bhutan, here are the most special things to buy in Bhutan, including the best things to buy in Bhutan and famous things to buy in Bhutan:
Bhutanese textiles are renowned worldwide for their vibrant colours and intricate designs. The country produces a variety of handwoven fabrics made from raw cotton, silk, or wool. Each region has its own speciality-Bura textiles from Rahi and Bidung villages, and Adang textiles from Adang Village, including Adang Rachu, Mathra, and Khamar. Woollen Yathra and Bumthap fabrics are used for jackets, blankets, and carpets. Tourists can also buy traditional attire like Kira and Gho, making meaningful souvenirs.
- Prices: Machine-made Kira INR 1,000; high-quality handwoven Kira INR 650,000 (USD 10,000)
- Where to Buy: Norzim Lam Street, National Textile Museum, Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, Adang Village, Tashi Industries Carpet Factory
2. Local Paintings or Thangkas
Thangkas are sacred Bhutanese scroll paintings that depict deities, saints, and spiritual scenes. These artworks are hand-painted or embroidered on silk or cotton and often framed with brocade. Each Thangka is a work of devotion and artistry, reflecting Bhutan’s strong Buddhist culture. They make unique and spiritual souvenirs for travelers.
- Prices: Authentic Thangka INR 12,000–50,000; original smaller Thangka INR 5,000
- Where to Buy: Bhutan Art Gallery, National Institute of Zorig Chusum (Thimphu)
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Handicrafts Shopping in Bhutan are an essential part of the country’s cultural identity. Visitors can buy decorative vases, wall hangings, statues, bamboo products, and handmade paper. Handmade paper is a speciality, made from local trees and exported worldwide. These handicrafts are perfect souvenirs for friends or personal collections. Bhutan prohibits the export of antiques, so stick to newly made items.
- Prices: Prices vary depending on size and material, but wooden or bamboo products generally start around INR 500.
- Where to Buy: National Handicraft Emporium, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, and Cheencho Handicraft in Paro.
4. Local Food Ingredients
Food ingredients from Bhutan make excellent gifts and souvenirs. Popular items include chilli powder, red rice, tea leaves, yak cheese, and local noodles. Red rice, unique to Bhutan, is known for its nutty flavour, while yak cheese is a staple in Bhutanese cuisine. Tourists can also take back traditional Bhutanese snacks.
- Prices: Yak cheese INR 250 per piece
- Where to Buy: Centenary Farmers Market (Thimphu), Tea markets (Phuntsholing), Yoser Lhamo Shop.
Bhutan is a philatelist’s dream. Known as a paradise for stamp collectors, the country produces vibrant and creative postage stamps with unique designs, including yaks, archery, and Buddhist motifs. The first-ever stamp set, released in 1962, features seven stamps depicting local culture and can still be purchased for around INR 100. Tourists can even send personalised postcards with special stamps, making it a fun and memorable souvenir.
- Prices: First-ever stamp set (1962) INR 100
- Where to Buy: Thimphu Post Office
Buddhism is central to Bhutanese life, and Buddhist sculptures are highly sought-after souvenirs. These include statues of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and traditional Ihazo paintings made from mineral pigments. Sculptures are typically made of clay or bronze, reflecting Bhutan’s spiritual artistry. Prices vary according to size and intricacy.
- Prices: Smaller statues may start at INR 800, while larger, detailed pieces can cost INR 10,000 or more.
- Where to Buy: Authentic Bhutanese Crafts (Thimphu), Norzim Lam Street
Woodwork is a popular Bhutanese craft, ranging from decorative bowls (Dappa) to furniture, jewellery boxes, masks, and sculptures. Trashiyangtse district in eastern Bhutan is famous for its intricately carved wooden items. The products are often colourful, finely polished, and come in various shades of natural wood.
- Prices: INR 800–20,000 depending on size and intricacy
- Where to Buy: Town Square (Phuntsholing), Wood Turning & Laquering Cluster, Choki Handicrafts (Paro).
Bhutanese jewellery is both artistic and symbolic. The country is famous for gold, silver, and Dzi beads, believed to bring good fortune and protect against evil. Jewellery includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and amulets.
- Prices: Old Dzi beads INR 1,300,000 (USD 20,000); modern beads are cheaper
- Where to Buy: Sorji Jewellery Gift Shop (Thimphu), local markets in Paro.
Meditation products reflect Bhutan’s strong spiritual culture. Tourists can buy incense sticks, prayer flags, prayer beads, bells, and small resin statues. These items are used for meditation or as decorative spiritual souvenirs.
- Prices: Prices range from INR 100 for small incense packs to INR 2,000 for larger meditation sets.
- Where to Buy: Weekend Market (Thimphu), Lama Tshering Dorji General Shop (Paro)
Bhutanese masks are central to festivals and cultural celebrations, depicting characters from local legends and myths. The masks are hand-painted in bright colours, often decorated with beads, and made from wood or clay. They range in size and can be used as wall décor or festival souvenirs.
- Prices: INR 1,000 for a decent decorative mask
- Where to Buy: Choki Handicrafts (Paro)
Norzin Lam is a lively Bhutan market in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. People love this street due to its vibrant atmosphere. It’s a tourist attraction that locals also love.
One of the most popular things to do in Norzin Lam is shopping in Bhutan. This is one of the best shopping places in Bhutan, as you can get all kinds of Bhutanese clothing. The street is full of quirky restaurants and cafes. If you are tired of travelling, you can also enjoy delicious Bhutanese cuisine.
If you want to experience the authentic local culture of Bhutan, you’ll love this place. Some Bhutanese festivals often take place on the streets of the Bhutanese shopping market.
The streets are clean, and the flowers all around give a pleasant stroll ambience. The people of this place are also very kind and helpful. They’ll be glad to assist you.
- Things to buy from Bhutan’s Norzin Lam: Traditional Bhutanese clothing, accessories, Handwoven textiles, and scarves.
- Market Timings: 9 am- 7 pm
2. Weekend Market in Thimphu
This Weekend Market in Thimphu, Bhutan, is an extravagant place to shop. You can find several locals and tourists who come together to shop here. It’s a lively and colourful place for your unique Bhutan shopping experience.
The weekend market is a must-visit place to enjoy the bustling hub of this city. Locals buy fresh fruits and vegetables from this Bhutan market. It is also famous for its handicrafts and textiles of good quality. Bhutanese farmers give flavour to their organic produce.
Moreover, you can also find an excellent attire section of beautiful garments, including the famous Bhutanese gho and kira. You can take that up as a souvenir or a diverse addition to your wardrobe.
- Best Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Weekend Market: Fresh local produce, Handmade Bhutanese snacks and sweets.
- Market Timings: 9 am- 8 pm
3. Thimphu Craft Bazaar in Thimphu
Shopping in the Thimphu Craft Bazaar in Bhutan is a must-visit market for craft shopping. You’ll find several local artisans beautifully crafting their handmade treasures. The craftsmen and the visitors talk about their product and happily buy it.
This place has some intricately woven handicrafts, mostly hand-carved textiles, and wooden items that suit almost every taste.
The craftsmanship carefully works in a way that reflects Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Artisans love talking to tourists and are happiest to share their techniques for making the product. They give a different learning experience with the product itself.
It’s a great chance to learn directly from the artisans about Bhutanese culture and artistry. Thimphu Craft Bazaar could be your memorable experience, from souvenirs from Bhutan to learning about the market.
- Things to buy from Bhutan’s Thimpu Craft Bazaar: Bhutanese Handcrafted jewellery, Exquisite woodcarvings, and bamboo products.
- Market Timings: 9 am- 8 pm
4. Handicrafts Emporium in Thimphu
You’ll find a treasure trove of traditional Bhutanese crafts and culture in the esteemed Handicrafts Emporium in Thimphu, Bhutan.
The Handicrafts Emporium displays the exquisite craftsmanship of the Bhutanese artisans. You’ll find a wide range of handmade items, hand-painted masks, delicate silver jewellery and much more. These products speak for the rich heritage of Bhutan.
You can also directly interact with the Skilled artisans who are the makers of the beautiful products. You can watch them working and carefully making stunning pieces. They learn the techniques from their ancestors, and the skill is passed on to every generation.
- Best Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Handicrafts Emporium: Hand-painted traditional Bhutanese masks, colourful thangkas (Buddhist scroll paintings for souvenirs)
- Market Timings: 10 am – 7 pm
5. Centenary Farmer’s Market in Thimphu
It’s a perfect space to explore the Bhutanese lifestyle’s authentic side. You can visit the Centenary Farmer’s market in Thimpu to understand Bhutan’s fresh produce and cultural hub clearly.
As you enter the market, you’ll be greeted with several colours and beautiful aromas. The kaleidoscopic world will leave you in awe with the perfect rows of stalls and the freshness of vegetables and fruits. It’s the best place for food lovers and an excellent opportunity to try some of Bhutan’s unique produce.
The market will open a place for a microcosm of Bhutanese culture. The locals and the traditional people will allow you to interact with the friendly Bhutanese people.
Besides fresh food, you can also witness the handicrafts, textiles, and household items in the Centenary Farmers’ Market. You can buy beautiful woven baskets, handcrafted knives, and traditional Bhutanese incense sticks.
The food stalls are delicious, serving the Ema Datshi Momos for your flavoursome day. It will be a party for your taste buds.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Centenary Farmers Market: Traditional Bhutanese spices and herbs, Bhutanese cheese and dairy products.
- Market Timings: 8 am- 6 pm
Paro in Bhutan is home to the charming Paro Market. You can visit this market if you want to witness the true reflection of Bhutan’s simplicity and beauty. This place will give you a unique experience of shopping in Bhutan in a serene setting.
Like the other markets, you can shop for local handicrafts and fresh products. As you walk through the market, you will understand the quality of the craftsmanship each type of product has.
Shopping in Paro Market, an excellent place to buy a variety of Bhutan souvenirs, shopping as jewellery, bags, and scarves, which are beautifully made.
The vibe at Paro Market is peaceful and welcoming. You can savour the freshly made food all across the market. It’s where you can leisurely explore the offerings and converse with the friendly vendors.
The best time to visit these markets is on weekends, as it becomes a hub for both shopping and socialising.
An insider tip is to bring your cameras to capture the enchanting surroundings and the warm smiles of the locals.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Paro Market: Local organic honey and dried fruits, Traditional Bhutanese jewellery.
- Market Timings: 9 am- 7 pm
7. Wangduephodrang Market in Wangduephodrang
Wangduephodrang Market is in the heart of Wangduephodrang town, Bhutan. This market is a lively place. It's a must-visit for both locals and travellers to get a perfect taste of authentic Bhutanese life.
It is known for its wide variety of goods on offer. While strolling through the market, you’ll see colourful stalls selling fresh fruits, aromatic organic spices, and locally sourced grains.
You can get flavoursome Bhutanese delights and even pick up some unique ingredients for your culinary experiments.
This market is an ideal spot to shop for authentic Bhutanese souvenirs and gifts. Only if you want to spend good money. The vendors of this market are known for their warm smiles and for willingly engaging in friendly conversations.
You can witness traditional dance performances, music, and cultural displays. It’s a perfect place to be a part of the region’s rich heritage.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Wangduephodrang Market: Handwoven yak wool textiles, Traditional Bhutanese pottery.
- Market Timings – 9 am- 7 pm
8. Punakha Craft Market in Punakha
Punakha Craft Market is a must-visit market for anyone interested in traditional Bhutanese crafts. This market will show you the true colours of artistic skills and Bhutanese craftsmanship.
This is the best place to witness a picturesque spot to explore the artistic heritage. Punakha craft market has high-quality handwoven textiles, woodwork and finely crafted Jewellery. The price might be extra, but as per the quality found here, it’s worth it.
If you talk to the vendors of these products, you’ll know a different story of every culture. You can also see the craftsmen’s working space, which will give you an insight into the creative process. It is an experience to cherish their craftsmanship and intricate designs.
Be sure to take advantage of the local machine places. You’ll find excellent, refreshing food and drinks with the right flavours in this region.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Punakha Craft Market: Handwoven baskets and bamboo products, Bhutanese silver jewellery.
- Market Timings: 9 am – 8 pm
9. Gasa Town Market in Gasa
In the serene town of Gasa in Bhutan, the Gasa Town Market is a bustling place with the charm and tranquillity of Bhutan. This market serves the local community, making it a natural home for you to observe the Bhutanese people’s daily life struggles and happiness.
You’ll find stalls selling fresh produce, including organic fruits and vegetables, and grains and spices sourced from the surrounding areas.
People are so kind here to share stories and insights about their town and its traditions. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with the people of Gasa and learn about their way of life.
You can buy handwoven fabrics, simple wooden crafts, and even some unique jewellery pieces from this market, as the local artisans sell them at comparatively lower prices than the big markets.
The serene atmosphere and beautiful natural landscapes make it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Gasa Town Market: Traditional Bhutanese daggers (phurbas), Handmade textiles and blankets
- Market Timings: 8 am -7 pm
10. Damji Market in Tsirang
This market in Bhutan is located in the picturesque town of Damji, which offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and culture of the people in the region. While it may not be as well-known as some of the larger markets, Damji Market has its own unique charm.
Bhutan is known for its commitment to organic farming, and you can taste the freshness in the produce here. It’s a beautiful place to explore Bhutan’s agricultural heritage.
As you wander the market, you’ll also come across stalls selling traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. Local artisans showcase their talents through woven textiles, wooden crafts, and hand-carved items. These products are not only beautiful but also represent the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan.
The serene setting of Damji adds to the market’s charm. Surrounded by lush greenery and the natural beauty of Bhutan, it’s a peaceful place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
- Things to Buy in Bhutan’s Damji Market: Fresh local produce and spices, Handwoven traditional Bhutanese clothing
- Market Timings: 9 am – 7 pm
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What to Buy in Bhutan as Gifts
Wondering what to buy in Bhutan for your friends or family? Here are some simple ideas:
- For spirituality: small prayer flags, rosaries, incense, or prayer wheels.
- For art lovers: a miniature thangka painting or a carved mask.
- For fashion: a woven scarf, hand-stitched purse, or yak-wool hat.
- For food lovers: native red rice, yak cheese packets, Bhutanese tea blends, or herbal spices.
These gifts are meaningful and leave a lasting memory of your trip.
Here are easy tips to enjoy Shopping in Bhutan fully:
- Carry Cash: ATMs are only in major towns. Most markets accept Bhutanese Ngultrum (INR) only.
- Authenticity Matters: Purchase from certified craft shops, handicraft emporiums, or government-run bazaars. Many genuine shops display an “Authentic Bhutanese Craft” seal.
- Avoid Sacred or Restricted Items: Statues of deities, certain religious items, or antique objects may need export permits. Always ask first.
- Handle Items with Respect: Especially spiritual items-kneel or show a respectful gesture if reaching for items on display.
- Carry a Bag: Many shops offer paper or cloth bags. You can bring your reusable bag to reduce waste.
- Ask Before Photographing: Some artisans prefer not to be photographed, so always ask politely.
Shopping in Bhutan is an enriching experience - far more than just buying things. It’s about connecting with craft, culture, tradition and local lives. When you plan shopping in Bhutan, make Thimphu and Paro your key destinations, focus on authentic textiles and handicrafts, and balance the desire for something special with your budget and practicalities. Whether you’re after the best places to shop in Bhutan, or simply want to find budget friendly shopping in Bhutan, there are meaningful choices for every traveller.
So the next time you wonder what to buy in Bhutan, or look for the best things to buy in Bhutan, remember: pick something that resonates with place and tradition, enjoy the process, and you’ll carry home more than a souvenir - you’ll carry a piece of Bhutan.
Have a wonderful shopping adventure!
