WEEKEND MARKET

About Weekend Market

Held from Friday to Sunday along the banks of the Wang Chhu River, it attracts farmers, artisans, and traders from across Bhutan. The market is divided into sections, from fresh organic produce and aromatic spices to traditional handicrafts, handwoven textiles, and religious artefacts.

You can explore stalls filled with dried chillies, yak cheese, and Bhutanese red rice. You can sample Bhutanese street food, including momos, Ema Datshi, and butter tea while engaging with friendly locals. The market also serves as a social gathering place where Bhutanese people shop, barter, and share stories. 

The vibrant atmosphere, filled with the scent of incense, the chatter of vendors, and the rhythm of traditional music, makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you are looking for souvenirs or simply immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture, the Thimphu Weekend Market offers a truly enriching experience.

Weekend Market Highlights

• Visit the famous Thimphu Weekend Market, a bustling hub of culture, flavours, and traditions, and have an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese life.
• Discover Bhutanese artistry in handwoven fabrics, wooden carvings, and intricate Thangka paintings while exploring colourful stalls in the market.
• Get a chance to buy fresh, locally grown vegetables, exotic spices, and aromatic dried chillies and get insight into Bhutan’s rich culinary heritage.
• Learn about traditions, beliefs, and sustainable way of life as you engage with Bhutanese farmers, artisans, and monks.
• Enjoy the vibrant, community-driven ambience with lively bartering, colourful stalls, and the rhythmic sounds of traditional Bhutanese music.

How To Reach Weekend Market

• By Car: The weekend market is 1.6 km from the city centre, and it will take 4 minutes via the Norzin Lam route.
• By Bus:  Take a bus to Thimphu City Bus Terminal, which is 2,000 feet away from the market. You can reach the activity location from the bus station within a 10-minute walk.
• By Foot: The market is a 10-minute walk from the Clock Tower Square as it is located at a distance of 1 km, offering a pleasant stroll through Thimphu’s vibrant streets.

Best Time To Visit Weekend Market

Thimphu Weekend Market is open year-round, offering a vibrant shopping and cultural experience.

• Best Season: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) is the best season to visit the weekend market due to pleasant weather and fresh produce.
• Best Day: The best days to visit the market are Saturday and Sunday when all vendors are active.
• Best Time: Early morning (7-9 AM) is the best time to visit the market for fresh items and fewer crowds.

Weekend Market Other Essential Information

• Most vendors accept only cash, so bring enough Bhutanese Ngultrum for hassle-free shopping. ATMs are available but may not always be reliable.
• Negotiation is common, especially for handicrafts but be respectful and friendly while bargaining to maintain the market’s welcoming atmosphere.
• The best time to visit is in the morning (7-9 AM) when the market is less crowded, and fresh produce is available.
• Taste authentic Bhutanese delicacies like Ema Datshi, momos, and butter tea from food stalls for a true cultural experience.
• Reduce plastic waste by carrying your own bag for purchases, as sustainability is valued in Bhutan.