Local Handicrafts & Shopping
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A Complete Cultural and Shopping Guide
From aromatic sprays to intricate textiles and sacred artifacts, Bhutan offers a wealth of meaningful souvenirs. These products reflect the country’s deep-rooted cultural traditions, respect for nature, and remarkable craftsmanship.
Whether you’re shopping for wellness products, artisanal crafts, or culinary treasures, here’s a curated guide to the best things to buy in Bhutan—along with the top markets, stores, and gift shops to explore and find the best souvenirs.
What to Buy in Bhutan: Authentic Souvenirs to Bring Home
Bhutan is not just a destination—it’s a world steeped in spiritual tradition, untouched landscapes, and a reverence for craftsmanship. As you explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon, you’ll encounter more than just sights and stories. You’ll find meaningful objects, created with care, that encapsulate Bhutan’s soul. Here are ten authentic Bhutanese souvenirs to consider bringing home—each with a story, a purpose, and a piece of the country’s heritage.
1. Lemongrass Spray from the Eastern Valleys
In the misty hills of Mongar and Trashigang, wild lemongrass grows freely. Bhutanese villagers hand-harvest this plant to distill its essential oils into a refreshingly sweet spray with natural therapeutic powers. Used as an insect repellent thanks to its citronellol and geraniol compounds, this spray also doubles as an antiseptic and an aromatherapy balm.
Traditionally used in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, lemongrass helps ease digestive troubles, relieve headaches, and calm anxiety. Mix it with a touch of lavender oil and you have a natural sleep remedy straight from the mountains.
Where to find it: Local apothecaries in Trashigang, Thimphu organic shops, and small village cooperatives.
2. Cordyceps: The Himalayan Super Fungus
Cordyceps sinensis-known locally as Yartsa Gunbu-is one of Bhutan’s most prized natural treasures. Harvested high in the alpine meadows, these parasitic fungi infect caterpillars, creating an otherworldly-looking hybrid that is revered in traditional medicine.
Used for centuries in Tibetan and Chinese healing, cordyceps are believed to boost energy, libido, respiratory health, and even longevity. They are rare, difficult to harvest, and considered more valuable than gold by weight.
Tip: Buy only from certified vendors or government-approved outlets to avoid counterfeits.
3. Pure Bhutanese Honey
In Bhutan, bees thrive without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Farmers rely on stingless bees and organic farming methods, resulting in golden honey that’s as medicinal as it is delicious.
Rich in antioxidants, Bhutanese honey soothes sore throats, balances cholesterol, and aids in digestion. It also makes for a charming gift-usually sold in rustic jars with woven tops, reflecting Bhutan’s rural charm.
Fun fact: Bhutanese honey is often used in herbal infusions or with butter tea in traditional households.
4. Handwoven Textiles
Weaving is not just a craft in Bhutan-it’s a living expression of identity, passed from mothers to daughters. From vivid kira (women’s dress) fabrics to intricately patterned scarves, each piece takes weeks or months to complete.
Weavers use locally sourced silks and vegetable dyes, and every pattern tells a story: of seasons, festivals, or personal milestones.
Where to shop: The Textile Museum in Thimphu, village markets in Lhuentse, and women’s weaving cooperatives throughout the country.
5. Dapa Wooden Bowls
Hand-carved in the eastern district of Trashiyangtse, dapa bowls are a symbol of hospitality and everyday ritual in Bhutanese homes. Made from hardwood like rhododendron or maple, each bowl is burnished and oiled to last generations.
Used for serving rice, ema datshi, or suja (butter tea), these bowls blend practicality with beauty. Many are engraved with lucky symbols or stylized dragons.
Tip: Ask the artisan about the tree the wood came from-they often know its full story.
6. Bhutanese Herbal Tea Blends
From high-altitude mint to wild cinnamon bark and mountain ginger, Bhutan’s herbal teas are blended not just for flavor, but for balance and healing. Whether it’s to aid digestion, calm the nerves, or promote better sleep, there’s a tea for every need.
Most teas are gathered sustainably, dried in the sun, and packaged in handwoven bags-making them an ideal souvenir that’s light, healthy, and rooted in tradition.
Try: Tsheringma tea, named after the Bhutanese goddess of longevity and well-being.
7. Miniature Mask Replicas
If you’ve ever attended a Tsechu festival, you’ve likely seen monks performing sacred dances in vivid masks representing wrathful deities, animals, and protectors. These colorful carved wooden masks are deeply spiritual objects, used to ward off evil and bless the audience. They’re symbolic of Bhutan’s Buddhist beliefs and make for powerful, conversation-starting wall pieces.
Smaller versions of these masks are sold as home décor or souvenirs, often hand-carved by artisans who also supply monasteries.
8. Handmade Paper Products from Bark and Flowers
In Bhutan, paper isn’t made from trees-it’s crafted from the daphne plant, a fast-growing shrub native to the Himalayas. Artisans cook, pulp, and sun-dry the fibers into textured handmade paper, often embedded with wildflowers or dyed with natural pigments.
Used for prayer flags, notebooks, wrapping paper, or art prints, these eco-friendly papers are both sustainable and soulful.
Visit: The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory in Thimphu for a hands-on workshop.
9. Bhutan Red Rice: Heirloom Grain of the Himalayas
This semi-milled red rice is grown in the fertile valleys of Punakha, irrigated by glacier-fed rivers. It’s nutty, slightly sticky, and incredibly rich in minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium.
Packed with antioxidants and fiber, Bhutan red rice supports heart health, controls blood sugar, and is a staple in every Bhutanese kitchen.
Tip: Buy a vacuum-sealed bag from a local cooperative for freshness.
10. Thangkas: Sacred Scroll Paintings
Thangkas are spiritual artworks painted or embroidered on silk and cotton, depicting Buddhist deities, mandalas, or symbolic life cycles. They are more than just decorative-they are meditation aids, teaching tools, and revered offerings.
Every thangka takes weeks or months to complete, and some are blessed by monks before sale. Owning one is like holding a piece of Bhutanese spiritual history.
Caution: Never buy antique thangkas or religious relics, as exporting them is illegal.
11. Silver & Stone Jewelry
In Bhutan, jewelry isn’t just decoration — it’s deeply spiritual. Silver and semi-precious stones like turquoise, coral, and lapis lazuli are used in traditional amulets, earrings, and necklaces, often featuring lotus motifs, thunderbolts (vajras), or protective deities.
Many of these pieces draw from Tibetan Buddhist symbolism, and are believed to bring protection, wisdom, and good fortune. Some are worn during festivals and tshechus, while others are passed down as family heirlooms.
Tip: High-quality pieces can be found in monastery-affiliated shops, where proceeds support local communities.
12. Yak Products: Wool, Meat & Cheese
The majestic yak is central to Bhutan’s highland culture, especially in regions like Laya, Merak, Bumthang, and Haa. These animals thrive at altitudes above 3,000 meters and are revered for their endurance – and for what they provide to mountain communities.
🥩 Yak Meat:Available fresh or dried (like sikam, a Bhutanese-style jerky), yak meat is rich in flavor and protein. It’s used in hearty dishes, often with chili and cheese.
🧀 Yak Cheese:Known locally as chugo, it’s hard, salty, and made to last – perfect for treks. Softer, smoked or fresh versions are also made in Bumthang, where dairy craftsmanship is especially strong.
🧶 Yak Wool:Coarser than sheep’s wool but incredibly warm and durable. It’s used to make blankets, scarves, traditional boots (tsho lham), and woven textiles dyed with natural plant pigments.
Tip: Look for fair-trade certified cooperatives like CDK (Chumey Dairy) or Tarayana Foundation-supported shops
13. Traditional Musical Instruments
Bhutanese traditional music is deeply intertwined with spiritual and cultural life, and its instruments reflect centuries of craftsmanship and devotion.
The dramyin, a long-necked, six-stringed lute, is commonly used in both folk music and religious ceremonies. Carved from a single block of wood and often adorned with intricate designs, it produces a soft, melodic sound.
The lingm, a bamboo flute, is another staple, played during festivals, dances, and meditative rituals. Its mellow tones echo the peaceful rhythms of Bhutanese daily life.
Both instruments are typically handmade using local materials and passed down through generations of artisans. For travelers, these instruments offer not just a beautiful souvenir but a tangible piece of Bhutan’s living musical heritage.
Where to Shop in Thimphu, The Capital City
Norzin Lam, A Vibrant Heart of Bhutan's Capital
Norzin Lam is not just a street in Thimphu-it’s an experience! Lined with quirky cafes, vibrant shops, and the heart of Bhutanese culture, this lively market offers everything from traditional clothing to handwoven textiles and accessories. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the fragrant flowers, and savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine at one of the many cafes. Often buzzing with local festivals, this street is as much about atmosphere as it is about shopping.
What to Buy:Traditional Bhutanese clothing, handwoven textiles, scarves, and accessories.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Tip: Don’t miss the festivals that frequently pop up here-perfect for immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture.
Weekend Market - A Colorful Hub for Fresh Produce and Bhutanese Local Crafts
This bustling weekend market in Thimphu draws both locals and tourists with its vivid colors, organic produce, and handmade crafts. It’s an exciting place to pick up Bhutanese textiles, from the famous gho and kira to beautiful garments for all occasions. The market’s lively energy and colorful offerings make it an unmissable spot for shoppers looking for a genuine Bhutanese experience.
What to Buy:Fresh local produce, handmade snacks, Bhutanese gho and kira, textiles.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM
Tip: Don’t miss out on the local snacks-they’re perfect souvenirs to take back.
Thimphu Craft Bazaar - A Treasure Trove of Traditional Crafts
At Thimphu Craft Bazaar, you’ll find the finest hand-carved wooden items, intricate textiles, and locally crafted jewelry. This market is a haven for artisans to showcase their work and engage with visitors. The direct interaction with the creators provides a unique opportunity to learn about Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and the artistry behind each product.
What to Buy:Handcrafted jewelry, exquisite wood carvings, bamboo products.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM
Tip: Spend some time chatting with the artisans-they love sharing their craft stories.
Handicrafts Emporium, Bhutan’s Cultural Heritage on Display
The Handicrafts Emporium is a must-visit for anyone interested in Bhutanese art and craftsmanship. From hand-painted masks to delicate silver jewelry, this emporium offers a broad range of traditional items that highlight Bhutan’s deep cultural roots. You can even watch artisans at work, which makes the shopping experience even more special.
What to Buy:Hand-painted Bhutanese masks, colorful thangkas (Buddhist scroll paintings).
Market Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
Tip: Be sure to engage with the artisans-they’re eager to share their expertise.
Centenary Farmer’s Market, A Vibrant Food Lover’s Paradise
Dive into Bhutan’s authentic food culture at the Centenary Farmer’s Market. Known for its fresh fruits, organic vegetables, and locally sourced grains, it’s an ideal place for food enthusiasts. You’ll also find unique Bhutanese herbs, spices, and dairy products here. Aside from food, the market offers handmade crafts like woven baskets and traditional incense.
What to Buy:Bhutanese cheese, traditional spices, organic honey, dairy products, handmade crafts.
Market Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
Tip: Try the Ema Datshi (spicy chili cheese), a must-have Bhutanese dish!
Where to Buy: Best Shopping Places in Bhutan
Paro Market, A Peaceful Shopping Experience
Located in the serene town of Paro, this market offers a calm and authentic shopping experience. Here, you can find beautifully made jewelry, scarves, and traditional Bhutanese crafts. With a tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax, shop, and interact with friendly local vendors.
What to Buy:Local organic honey, dried fruits, traditional Bhutanese jewelry.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Tip: It’s an ideal spot for leisurely weekend shopping.
Wangduephodrang Market, A Vibrant Market with Local Flair
Wangduephodrang Market is a great place to experience the authentic Bhutanese way of life. This lively market is filled with stalls offering everything from fresh fruits to locally made textiles and pottery. If you’re interested in Bhutanese crafts, this market is the place to be for traditional yak wool textiles and hand-carved items.
What to Buy:Handwoven yak wool textiles, traditional Bhutanese pottery.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Tip: Look for local dance and music performances-they bring the market to life.
Punakha Craft Market, The Heart of Artistic Craftsmanship
The Punakha Craft Market offers visitors a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich artistic heritage. Known for its beautifully handwoven textiles, exquisite woodwork, and finely crafted jewelry, this market is a paradise for those seeking high-quality traditional crafts. Talk to the vendors, and you’ll learn fascinating stories behind each item they sell.
What to Buy:Handwoven baskets, bamboo products, Bhutanese silver jewelry.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM
Tip: Enjoy the food stalls, offering refreshing local drinks and delicious Bhutanese snacks.
Gasa Town Market, A Serene Escape into Bhutanese Life
In the tranquil town of Gasa, the Gasa Town Market is a peaceful spot where you can shop for fresh produce, handmade textiles, and unique jewelry. This market reflects the simplicity and natural beauty of Bhutan, offering a calm escape from the hustle and bustle of larger towns.
What to Buy:Traditional Bhutanese daggers (phurbas), handmade textiles, blankets.
Market Hours: 8 AM – 7 PM
Tip: Take your time to interact with the locals-they’ll share fascinating insights into life in Gasa.
Damji Market of Tsirang, A Quiet Market with Unique Charm
The Damji Market in the picturesque town of Tsirang offers a peaceful shopping experience surrounded by lush greenery. Although not as well-known as other markets, it offers a range of organic produce, handwoven textiles, and wooden crafts that reflect Bhutan’s commitment to organic farming and rich cultural traditions.
What to Buy:Fresh local produce, traditional Bhutanese clothing, spices.
Market Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Tip: The natural surroundings make this market a wonderful place to relax and soak in the beauty of Bhutan.
Ethical & Practical Shopping Tips
Support Local Artisans
When shopping in Bhutan, prioritize co-operatives, government-certified stores, or direct artisan workshops. These venues ensure fair trade practices and help preserve Bhutan’s rich craft traditions. Look for small family-run gift shops in Bhutan, where your purchase directly supports local communities.
Buy Authentic Souvenirs
Avoid mass-produced trinkets or knock-offs. Some markets may carry souvenirs imported from neighboring countries like India or Nepal, especially textiles, jewelry, and masks. Always ask about the origin of the product. For truly meaningful souvenirs from Bhutan, seek out handcrafted items such as yak wool scarves, bamboo products, and handwoven textiles.
Negotiate Respectfully
Bargaining is acceptable in local markets, but should always be done with a smile and mutual respect. In official outlets or certified gift shops, prices are often fixed. Don’t push too hard-remember that your purchase may represent a day’s wage for an artisan.
Understand What’s Forbidden to Export
Certain items are considered national treasures and are strictly prohibited from being taken out of the country. When wondering what to buy in Bhutan, be aware of the following things to avoid:
Antique religious artifacts, including statues, ritual objects (e.g., phurba daggers), and masks more than 100 years old.
Sacred texts such as ancient Buddhist manuscripts or old sutras.
Thangka paintings of spiritual or religious significance, especially older ones.
Antiques and relics designated as part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.
Before finalizing your purchase, especially for religious or artistic items, ask whether export is permitted and whether documentation is needed. Some pieces may require approval from the Department of Culture or the Department of Revenue and Customs.
Carry Cash
While shopping in Bhutan, it’s wise to have enough Bhutanese money, Ngultrum (Nu), or USD in cash, especially when visiting remote villages or local markets. Credit card acceptance is limited to certain areas in Thimphu and Paro, and may not work in small gift shops.
Look for Official Labels
Authentic souvenirs from Bhutan often come with the “Handicrafts of Bhutan” label. This certification, issued by the Department of Culture and the Agency for Promotion of Indigenous Crafts (APIC), indicates that the item is genuinely handmade and culturally appropriate.
Shop During Festivals
Local festivals such as the Thimphu Tshechu or Paro Tshechu are excellent opportunities for shopping in Bhutan. Many artisans travel from rural areas to display their finest work. It’s a great time to discover rare things to buy, often at better prices than in city shops.
Pack with Care
Delicate items like hand-painted masks, clay incense burners, yak cheese, and handwoven baskets require protective packing. Bring bubble wrap or soft clothing to pad fragile souvenirs, and ask vendors to wrap items securely for travel.
Respect Cultural and Religious Symbols
Many souvenirs from Bhutan carry deep religious significance. Ritual objects like prayer wheels, thangka scrolls, or dorje (vajra) are sacred in Bhutanese Buddhism. Use them respectfully and avoid decorative misuse-these aren’t just pretty items, they are spiritual tools.
Request Receipts for Valuable Purchases
If you’re buying high-value items like silver jewelry, handmade furniture, or artworks, always ask for a receipt. It will help with customs clearance, insurance, and resale documentation if needed. Some high-value items may even require export permits.
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About Across Bhutan
Across Bhutan travel agency offers Organized Tours & Custom Tours through Bhutan’s tranquil landscapes.
