Shopping in Bhutan is a completely different experience. While you won’t find mega malls or global retail chains like in many developed countries, what you will discover is far more special — authentic, locally made products that tell stories of Bhutan’s culture, craftsmanship, and way of life.
Until recently, foreign brands were almost non-existent, but a few international names such as Adidas has slowly made their way into Thimphu. Still, the real charm lies in exploring Bhutan’s local markets and craft boutiques, where every item — from handwoven textiles to handmade paper — reflects the country’s rich heritage and artistic spirit.
Here’s a guide to some of the most popular local products to buy in Bhutan, along with the best places to shop during your visit.
1) Lemongrass spray
Mainly found growing wild in the Mongar and Trashigang districts of eastern Bhutan, the Bhutanese version of lemongrass oil has a distinctively relaxing sweet scent which lingers.
Lemongrass oil contains the active chemical constituents of geraniol and citronellol that repel insects such as mosquitoes and houseflies. The oil can also be used as an antiseptic or balm. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the oil is used for relieving stomach pain, headaches, cold and rheumatism while for Ayurvedic medicine, it is used as a remedy for fever and for relaxation.
Lemongrass oil can also be combined with a few drops of lavender oil to ease insomnia and to soothe indigestion. This multi-functional spray can also be used for its relaxing aroma. Those who have visited Bhutan will definitely remember the lemongrass smell once they’ve encountered it.
2) Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that attaches itself on insects and other arthropods as hosts. The most renowned Cordyceps species is cordyceps sinensis (currently officially known as ophiocordyceps sinensis) which infects the caterpillar of Hepialus moth.
Cordyceps have been widely used in traditional chinese medicine (TCM) and some branches of herbalism for centuries. A lot of research has been conducted to study the powerful benefits of cordyceps. Some of the health benefits that have been claimed to be associated with cordyceps such as combating fatigue, anti-tumour effect, managing of type 2 diabetes, improve heart condition, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-aging, and improve fertility and libido.
For more information about Cordyceps Sinensis, click here.
3) Bhutan honey
Bhutanese beekeepers do not use harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. They are only relying on Stingless Bee to pollinate their crops and nature manure to increase their yields. This amicable relationship with nature ensures the quality of the honey and sustainable ecosystem.
Bhutan honey is a natural productive cough remedy that contains anti-inflammatory effects, balancing of blood pressure, liver problems, blood sugar, and bad cholesterol.
It is definitely a popular souvenir to bring home.
4) Bhutanese handwoven textiles & traditional garments
Bhutanese textiles are highly prized for their craftsmanship. Most are woven by hand using silk, wool, or cotton, and dyed with natural colours. You’ll find beautiful pieces like the kira (the traditional full-length dress for women), the gho (robe worn by men), as well as shawls, scarves, and throws. Woollen items made from yak wool or yathra wool (a regional fabric from Bumthang) are especially popular for their warmth and durability.
5) Handicrafts & Home Décor
Bhutanese artisans produce a wide range of crafts using wood, bamboo, and clay. Look out for carved wooden bowls (dapa), wooden masks (used in traditional dances), cane and bamboo baskets, and decorative homeware pieces. Handmade paper (desho), crafted from the bark of the daphne plant, is another great find — often turned into stationery, notebooks, or gift boxes.
Tip
Avoid purchasing items labelled as “antique”, as export of genuine antiques is strictly prohibited in Bhutan.
These exquisite bags and pouches are uniquely handwoven by Bhutanese women. They can be found in The Craft Gallery in Thimphu town. A social cause initiated by the Gyalyum Charitable Trust to support the marginalized segment in society.
6) Prayer flags
Bhutanese prayer flags are commonly found hanging on every mountain pass, bridge, stupa, temple and roof of Bhutanese’s home. It is only found in five colours - red, green, blue, white and yellow.
Bhutanese believe that keeping these five elements in good harmony is good for the body and mind. It is believed that putting up the prayer flags is considered as accumulating merit and spreading of blessings, good luck, happiness and long life from the prayers carried by the wind
Find out more about the significance of the Bhutanese’s prayers flags.
7) Wooden products
Another item that is popular among tourists is dapa (wooden products). Dapa is a wooden bowl carved out of wood. Trashiyangtze, a district in eastern Bhutan sells the most remarkable Dapas. Other wooden products include tablewares, jewellery boxes, sculptures and wooden masks that make incredible decorations for your house. The Bhutanese wooden products come in a variety of shapes and sizes with intricate carvings.
8) Colourful carved wooden masks
Festivals are one of the most important events in Bhutan that seek to promote peace and spirituality. A major feature in the festival celebrations involve wooden masks depicting various characters from local legends and myths. The annual mask dance (tsechu festival) is a huge tourist attraction in Bhutan. The masks are usually worn by monks during the festival. They can be found in bright colours and come in different shapes and sizes. These masks make for a very nice rustic decor.
9) Bhutan red rice
You must have tasted the yummy red rice if you have been to Bhutan. Bhutan red rice is a whole grain that is rich in fibre. Fibre is essential for digestion, and it can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood cholesterol levels. Since fibre helps you to keep you full for longer, and red rice is also fat-free - reducing the risk of obesity.
The red rice contains powerful antioxidant properties that help to reduce the spread of cancer cells and even inhibit the formation of tumours as well as delay the sign of aging. Research has also shown that a diet rich in anthocyanin can help to protect against skin cancer and other skin diseases.
Bhutan red rice is full of essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, manganese, selenium, protein and potassium. It contains more zinc and iron than its white, black and brown rice
10) Thangkas (Buddhist paintings and arts)
Thangka (Buddhist paintings) is a traditional and most popular artwork in Bhutan. They are considered sacred amongst the Bhutanese community. You can find many scroll paintings depicting Buddhist deities, saints and Buddhist doctrines. The paintings are made with different background colours and usually block printed or embroidered. They are usually drawn on cloth or silk applique. The paintings are created using natural colours and are perfect for people who appreciate fine arts. They serve as a beautiful decoration for one’s home.
11) Bhutan Travel Guidebook
A Bhutan travel guidebook makes one of the most meaningful souvenirs you can bring home — something far beyond postcards or trinkets. It’s a keepsake that captures the spirit of your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Inside its pages, you’ll rediscover the breathtaking valleys, the rhythm of monastic chants, and the warmth of the Bhutanese people.
Whether you keep it for yourself or gift it to a friend, it’s a timeless reminder of the places you’ve seen, the connections you’ve made, and the serenity you felt while standing among the clouds. If you’re planning to bring one home, consider a comprehensive Bhutan travel guide such as Bhutan Travelog available at Paro Airport bookstore, CSI Markets, and shops across Thimphu and Paro.
12. Bhutan T-shirts
Bhutan-themed T-shirts are among the most fun and easy souvenirs to take home — a perfect blend of comfort, culture, and memory. You’ll find them in all styles and colours, often featuring the iconic Thunder Dragon, the national flag, or catchy phrases like “Happiness is a Place” and “I Love Bhutan.”
Some designs pay tribute to Bhutan’s symbols — the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, or stylised depictions of dzongs and mask dancers. Many are handprinted locally by young Bhutanese artists and social enterprises that support community livelihoods, making each shirt not just a souvenir but a small contribution to local creativity.
They make great casual wear during your trip and serve as a light, practical keepsake once you’re back home. Chhom Bhutan has a great selection of Bhutanese T-shirts.
13. Singing Bowls
Singing bowls are among the most enchanting souvenirs you can bring home from Bhutan — a blend of sound, spirituality, and tradition. Crafted mainly from a mix of metals such as copper, tin, and bronze, these bowls are used in monasteries and meditation practices to create soothing vibrations that promote calmness and mindfulness.
When gently struck or circled with a wooden mallet, they produce a resonant hum that seems to linger in the air — a sound many describe as “the voice of harmony.” Some are plain and polished, while others are intricately engraved with Buddhist mantras like Om Mani Padme Hum. They’re believed to balance energy, aid in relaxation, and help focus the mind during meditation.
Where to Go Shopping in Bhutan?
1. CSI Market (Thimphu)
Location: Gongphel Lam, Below the Startup Centre, Changzamtog, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Sunday hours may vary)
Why go: This government-backed marketplace showcases “Made & Grown in Bhutan” products — from handwoven textiles and wooden crafts to organic honey, herbal teas, and natural skincare. It’s a perfect one-stop shop for authentic Bhutanese souvenirs while directly supporting local artisans and small producers.
2. CSI Market (Paro)
Location: Opposite Nemeyzampa Bridge, Paro District, Bhutan
Opening Hours: Around 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily (hours may vary on Sundays)
Why go: Housed in a beautifully restored traditional Bhutanese structure, the Paro branch offers an excellent selection of locally crafted items, art prints, natural food products, and handmade accessories. The setting itself — with its wooden beams and warm interiors — makes browsing a pleasure.
3. CHHOM Bhutan (Thimphu)
Location: Kawajangsa, opposite Zorig Chusum School, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
Why go: CHHOM is a contemporary lifestyle boutique that blends Bhutanese heritage with modern flair. Expect quirky, stylish T-shirts, fashion accessories, stationery, and unique gift items — all designed and produced locally. It’s an ideal spot for those who love creativity with cultural roots.
4. Norzin Lam Street (Thimphu)
Location: Central Thimphu, stretching from the main traffic circle to the city gate
Opening Hours: Most shops open from 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why go: Thimphu’s main shopping strip and heartbeat of local life, Norzin Lam offers everything from woven scarves and thangkas to small cafés and modern boutiques. Perfect for leisurely browsing and people-watching.
5. National Handicraft Emporium (Thimphu)
Location: Near the Textile Museum, Thimphu
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Monday – Saturday)
Why go: A government-run emporium renowned for high-quality, fairly priced handicrafts. Expect hand-carved masks, woven kira fabrics, and traditional boots — ideal for shoppers who prefer quality-assured and ethically made items.
6. The Craft Gallery (Thimphu)
Location: Close to the Royal Textile Academy, Norzin Lam, Thimphu
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
Why go: This beautiful gallery-store champions Bhutanese craftsmanship at its finest. It curates exquisite handmade pieces — from silver jewellery and bamboo crafts to woven textiles, paintings, and contemporary art. The Craft Gallery works directly with artisans and cooperatives, ensuring every item tells a story and supports local livelihoods.
7. Paro Market & Handicraft Street (Paro)
Location: Main street area, Paro town
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why go: A colourful stretch of small shops and stalls selling Bhutanese textiles, prayer wheels, incense, and local produce. Great for relaxed shopping and interacting with friendly shopkeepers.
