Bhutan

Norzin Lam is Thimphu city's main artery, one lined with all manner of local craft shops and stalls, along with larger shopping centres. Expect to find anything from artwork and handicrafts to clothing, carpets, books, and woven and wood items.

Thursday through Sunday see the area just next to Changlimithang Stadium turn into a busy market, with vendors from all across Bhutan gathering to sell incense, dried goods, yak meat and cheese, regional fruit and vegetables, and all manner of local produce.

Within arm's reach from Thimphu's Weekend Market is the market dedicated to Bhutanese arts and crafts (some items are produced across the border, in Nepal). Expect to find anything from pieces made of indigenous yak to woven items, woodwork, ornaments, and more.

The National Handicrafts Emporium is an arts and handicraft store run by the government, which means fixed pricing (payment cards are also accepted, alongside cash). The assortment of goods ranges from rugs to woven items, traditional clothing, bags, and other pieces.

To purchase a traditional Bhutanese garment try this location on Norzin Lam. The shop sells high-quality men's and women's garments, all at incredibly affordable prices. It is one of the city's most reputable clothing vendors.

The country's oldest bookstore (which also happens to have the most extensive assortment) is DSB Books, located on the first floor of Jojo's Shopping Complex in Chang Lam. The store offers a large selection of literature on Bhutan, Buddhism, Hinduism, and more.