Bhutan - Thimphu Market

Ok. I LOVE markets. This weekend market is in Thimphu. There is another smaller one in Paro. Both markets are fine examples of the sustainable economy aspect of GNH.

Bhutan is an agrarian society. Depending on the seasons all sorts of vegetables, strange herbs and spices can be found in the markets. Fruits come from the orchards in the southern part of the country, vegetables like potatoes and yams from the north and central sections. The center picture above is shot through a dense curtain of green chili peppers as the woman was arranging more this Bhutanese staple in a bowl. More often than not hoooooot peppers are the dish and not the added spice for a bit of a kick.

As in most markets there is a section items for sale that some might purchase for gifts to take home. While the venders are surely happy to sell these wares to visitors, the products - religious objects, cloth, baskets, jewelry - are meant for local use.
There really isn't a tourist market in western tourist terms. Which is great!