How To Reach Weekend Market

Traveling to the Weekend Market in Thimphu, Bhutan

The Weekend Market, also known as the Centenary Farmers Market, is one of Thimphu's bustling and vibrant attractions. It's a place where locals and visitors alike come together to shop for fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. To reach this lively hub, here are the various options:

By Air and Road:

• International Arrival: If you are flying into BhutAn, your entry point is likely to be Paro International Airport. Paro is situated about 48 kilometers (30 miles) from Thimphu.
• Travel to Thimphu: From the Paro airport, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a pre-booked vehicle through your hotel or a tour operator to take you to Thimphu. This scenic drive typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Taxi: Once you're in Thimphu, taxis are a convenient way to get to the Weekend Market. Most drivers will know the market by its local name, so simply asking for "Weekend Market" or "Centenary Farmers Market" should suffice.

By Public Transport:

• Local Buses: If you're on a budget or seeking a local experience, there are buses that run between Paro and Thimphu regularly. Once in Thimphu, local city buses have routes that pass by or near the market.

By Foot:

• If you're already staying in Thimphu and prefer walking, the Weekend Market is located near the city center, and the walk can be an enjoyable way to see the city. The distance will depend on where you are staying, but the market is well known, and any local can point you in the right direction.

Market Hours: Keep in mind that the market only runs from Friday to Sunday. It is advisable to check the local timings before you visit, as they can vary with seasons and special local events.

Important Information:

• Always carry your passport, as you may need it for identification.
• Bhutan has strict tourism policies that often require visitors to obtain a visa and book their trip through an official tour operator. Make sure you have made all the necessary arrangements before your trip.
• Carry local currency – the ngultrum (BTN) – as foreign currencies may not be widely accepted and ATM access could be limited.