Bhutan is a colorful Buddhist nation that is known for its serene natural landscapes and spirituality. There are many monasteries here and the people are friendly and loving. One of the main features of the Bhutanese culture and economy are there special items and handicrafts that tourists prefer to purchase on their vacation.There are many things to buy in Bhutan on your vacation. While enjoying a vacation here, explore the many sights and also go for some souvenir shopping. Bring home the essence of this destination in the form of these items. Read on to know more about what all you can buy here.
Top 10 Things To Buy In Bhutan On A Shopping Spree
Bhutan is located on the eastern edge of the majestic Himalayan range and offers splendid views of the natural beauty around. The country has a rich history and culture to add onto such natural beauty. With such historical and cultural richness comes the many amazing places to go sightseeing.
There are also many places to shop and things to buy in Bhutan that tells stories of the country’s rich historical past. The things that you buy here also tell about the expert craftsmanship of the people here. Read ahead to know more.
1. Cane and Bamboo Handicrafts
To answer the question as to what to buy in Bhutan, one can start from the most popular handicraft items that are available here – items made from cane and bamboo materials. There are a plethora of shops in the country that sell these items. There are floor mats, baskets, wall-hangings, utensils, and much more. There is a usage of natural dyes as well to help make these products.
Place To Buy From: Lunga Handicraft, Chang Lam, Thimphu
Must Read: Visit These 53 Tourist Places In Bhutan To Change Your Worldview
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
2. Dzi Beads- Himalayan Beads
Out of the many things to buy in Bhutan are the colorful Dzi Beads. Also known as the Himalayan beads, they are used in the making of accessories like bracelets, necklaces, etc. There are different patterns to them as well – ovals, circles, squares, waves, stripes, zig zags, lines, dots, diamonds, and other symbolic patterns. You would be amazed to know that these beads are the most expensive beads found on the face of the earth. It is believed that these beads are the creations of god and they bring luck and ward off evil spirits. You can also find the cheaper versions in the local markets.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu
Suggested Read: Haa Valley: A Sweet Spot Tucked In Bhutan And A Must-Visit On The Northeast Trip!
3. Gold and Silver Jewelry
A few of the best Bhutanese things to buy includes the likes of jewelry and accessories. The type that is crafted using gold and silver is of prime importance in to the Bhutanese locals, especially the women. There are different designs that are intricate and varied. Expert and skilled craftsmanship go into the creation of these jewelry pieces. The items available are the arm adornments, earrings, necklaces, etc.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu
Suggested Read: Trekking In Bhutan: An Experience Like None Other!
4. Dappa – Handmade Wooden Bowls
One of the best things to buy in Bhutan is Dappa. These are the traditional Bhutanese wooden bowls. The amazing thing about these items is that they are handmade. These items can be purchased almost anywhere in Bhutan. This is due to the fact that they are used by almost every household in the country on a daily basis.
Place To Buy From: Thinley Dhendup General Shop and Handicraft, Trashi Yangtse
Suggested Read: Bhutan Visa For Indians: Explore The Land Of The Thunder Dragon With Family
5. Hand-woven Textiles
Out of the many things to buy in Bhutan, the hand-woven textiles are the most popular. Bhutanese people are known for their amazing artistry and craftsmanship. The people here use different materials like cotton, raw cotton, and silk to make different textiles.There are plenty of villages that make different kind of textiles using varied materials.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu, Rahi and Bidung Villages, Khoma Village, Trongsa, Adang Village
Suggested Read: Top 7 Reasons Why Bhutan In September Make A Solid Case For An Autumn Vacation
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.
6. Colored Carved Masks
If you are looking for something festive, colored carved masks would be one of the ideal Bhutanese things to buy. These accessories are a part of the major festivals. There are dances that are a part of these events – this is when the masks are used. The masks can be used as home decor adornments.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu
7. Sculptures and Buddhist Paintings
Sculptures and Buddhist paintings are really popular out of the things to buy in Bhutan. The country is a Buddhist kingdom, hence, these items are easily available in the local markets. There is use of minerals and clay as well to make these items. Adorn your home and office with these colorful pieces of artwork purchased on your vacation to Bhutan.
Place To Buy From: Choki Handicrafts, Choki Khangzang, Pedzoe Lam
Suggested Read: Reasons Why You Lose A Lot If You Miss Out On Bhutan Travel Experience!
8. Bhutanese Handmade Paper
There are many things to buy in Bhutan, out of which Daysho or Bhutanese paper is quite popular. The country has a huge forest cover that covers about 72% of the total land area. This is brought into great use by the locals into making many items. There are many uses of this paper – printing scriptures, legal agreements, and painting manuscripts. Gift papers, diaries, greeting cards, and notebooks are made using this paper.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu
9. Swords, Bows, and Arrows
While on a vacation, one can buy swords, bows, and arrows as souvenirs. Usually sold as gifts, these items are quite popular amongst the tourists. The material used is that of bamboo and other trees that are available in the region of its production. Since the national game of Bhutan is archery, these items are available in abundance.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu and Paro
Suggested Read: Phrumsengla National Park: Spot Rare Flora And Fauna As You Trek In Bhutan
10. Wooden Products
Since Bhutan has a huge forest cover, most of its products are made from natural materials. The most common is the wood found in the Bhutanese forests. You can different items made of intricately carved wood like utensils, cabinets, mirror frames, jewelry boxes, and tables. When wondering what to buy in Bhutan, these items are the safest bet as the wood found in the country is of prime quality. There are many places from where you can buy these items. There are many artistic variants to it as well.
Place To Buy From: Thimphu and Paro
Further Read: Backpacking In Bhutan: A Thrilling Experience For All The Travelers
Go on and check out a plethora of things to buy in Bhutan. There are so many items that might invoke your fancy. As you are exploring the local streets and markets in Bhutan, check out for the different artwork and items that the local artisans are selling. While you are on a vacation in Bhutan, indulge in some retail therapy and purchase these items from Bhutan.
People Also Read
Shopping In Sri Lanka Shopping In Maldives Shopping In Malaysia
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
