Shopping in Bhutan offers a unique and enriching experience for guests, with a focus on traditional craftsmanship, artisanal products, and locally made goods. Here are some recommended shopping opportunities:
Unique Souvenirs
Souvenirs from Bhutan serve as cherished reminders of your visit, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and artistry. Handicraft stores and craft bazaars across Bhutan are excellent places to find unique keepsakes, with popular items including jewelry and textiles. Bhutanese jewelry, made of gold or silver and often adorned with traditional designs, can be found in various price ranges, especially in Thimphu. Vibrant, hand-woven textiles are another highlight, available as Bhutanese costumes, neckties, bags, and cushion covers. Other notable souvenirs include intricately carved masks, wooden utensils, painted furniture, and bamboo products. Bhutan’s unique stamps, showcasing cultural heritage and innovative designs like 3D and silk stamps, are highly collectible. Additionally, items like Thangka paintings, handmade paper, and traditional tea and honey offer a wide array of gifts that capture the essence of Bhutan.
Arts & Crafts of Bhutan
Bhutanese arts and crafts, deeply rooted in tradition, are brought to life through the 13 arts known as Zorig Chusum. These crafts, passed down through generations, are now adapted to appeal to modern tastes.
Made in Bhutan
Bhutan has seen a rise in local products crafted from native materials, driven by innovative entrepreneurs. The One Gewog One Product (OGOP) initiative supports local artisans and farmers, promoting products like tea, honey, and rice. The Cottage and Small Industry (CSI) Market in Thimphu showcases the best of Bhutanese goods, offering a variety of high-quality, locally made items.
Textiles of Bhutan
Renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, Bhutanese textiles are a testament to the country’s rich weaving tradition. Eastern Bhutan, in particular, is famous for its weaves, including the prized kishuthara. Weaving, one of the 13 arts (Thagzo), is a skill often passed down through generations. Visit the Royal Textile Academy to explore a wide range of patterns and motifs that reflect the diverse heritage of Bhutanese textiles.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps sinensis, known as “Himalayan Gold” or “Bhutanese Viagra,” is a prized fungus with reputed medicinal properties, including aphrodisiac, immune-boosting, and anti-inflammatory effects. Grown in Bhutan’s alpine regions, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The harvesting process, which occurs from late May to early June, is a labor-intensive activity that has also become a unique tourist attraction, drawing visitors to witness and learn about its cultural and economic significance.
