Located along Norzin Lam, directly opposite the Nehru Wangchuk Cultural Centre, lies the Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar—a vibrant marketplace where traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts come to life. This open-air bazaar is a must-visit for travellers looking to take home a piece of Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
A Hub for Traditional Bhutanese Crafts
Spanning half a kilometre, the bazaar hosts around 80 stalls, each offering a curated selection of handmade Bhutanese handicrafts. These crafts, sourced primarily from rural artisans, showcase the country’s dedication to preserving its traditional art forms while catering to contemporary market demands. Some products have been adapted with modern aesthetics, but many remain true to their original designs, reflecting Bhutan’s deep-rooted craftsmanship.
Established in 2011, this initiative supports Bhutanese artisans by providing them with a platform to sell their creations, promoting equitable socio-economic development while safeguarding the nation’s unique artistic heritage.
What to Expect: Authentic Bhutanese Handicrafts
Visitors to the bazaar will find a diverse array of handcrafted treasures, including:
Thangkas (scroll paintings) – Exquisite religious paintings with intricate detailing.
Mandala paintings – Spiritual artwork symbolising the universe.
Embroidered boots – Traditional Bhutanese footwear crafted with vibrant designs.
Gold and silver ornaments – Handcrafted jewellery with intricate motifs.
Traditional textiles – Handwoven fabrics made using ancient weaving techniques.
Bamboo and cane products – Beautifully crafted baskets, mats, and containers.
Wood and slate carvings – Decorative and religious artefacts crafted with precision.
Handmade Bhutanese paper – Locally sourced and traditionally produced.
Best Time to Visit & Other Shopping Hotspots
The stalls open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it an ideal place to explore in the morning or afternoon. A leisurely visit can take two to three hours, allowing ample time to browse and interact with the artisans.
For those looking to expand their shopping experience, other popular places in Thimphu include:
The Craft Gallery – Featuring high-quality Bhutanese handicrafts.
Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre – Specialising in traditional handwoven fabrics.
National Handicraft Emporium – A government-run store ensuring authenticity.
Tarayana Rural Products – Offering sustainable and eco-friendly handicrafts.
The Art of Zorig Chusum: Bhutan’s 13 Traditional Crafts
The Bhutanese government actively preserves its artistic heritage through the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (School of Traditional Arts and Crafts), established in 1971. Here, students learn the country’s thirteen traditional crafts, known as Zorig Chusum, which were introduced in the 15th century by Terton Pema Lingpa. These crafts include:
Thagzo – Weaving
Tshazo – Bamboo and cane craft
Shagzo – Woodturning
Garzo – Blacksmithing
Jimzo – Clay crafts
Dozo – Stonework
Lugzo – Bronze casting
Shingzo – Woodwork
Tshemzo – Tailoring
Troezo – Gold and silver crafting
Parzo – Wood, slate, and stone carving
Dhezo – Papermaking
Lhazo – Painting
These crafts not only reflect Bhutan’s deep-rooted traditions but also ensure the survival of its cultural legacy for generations to come.
Plan Your Visit to the Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar
A trip to Bhutan is incomplete without experiencing its artistic excellence. Whether you’re looking for meaningful souvenirs or simply wish to admire the craftsmanship, the Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Bhutan’s living heritage.
For an enriching shopping experience in Thimphu, make sure to include this vibrant marketplace in your itinerary!
