Punakha, known for its stunning dzong and fertile valleys, offers a quieter but charming street food and market scene. While it doesn’t have big city-style bazaars, you’ll find delightful local produce, homemade snacks, and traditional treats at village stalls and weekend markets. Here are the top local markets and street food spots in Punakha to explore.
1. Khuruthang Weekend Market
Why visit: The town’s main market, where locals gather for fresh produce and home-style snacks.
Highlights: – Organic vegetables – Local cheese and dried chilies – Hot puffed rice with ezay
Timing: Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Roadside Stalls near Punakha Dzong
Why visit: Vendors set up near the iconic fortress, especially during festivals and weekends.
Highlights: – Suja (butter tea) – Fried hoentay dumplings – Local fruits like pears and bananas
Timing: Late morning to early evening
Entry: Free
3. Norzin Lam Area, Khuruthang Town
Why visit: Small eateries and snack counters line the main street, serving everyday favorites.
Highlights: – Momos (veg and chicken) – Spicy potato curry with rice – Bhutanese tea
Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Punakha Suspension Bridge Snack Stalls
Why visit: After crossing one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, enjoy light snacks with river views.
Highlights: – Boiled eggs with chili salt – Fried potato wedges – Fresh fruit
Timing: Daytime only, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Nobgang Village Farm Stalls
Why visit: Local families sell homemade snacks and organic produce near the heritage village.
Highlights: – Fresh yak cheese – Homegrown red rice – Roasted chickpeas
Timing: Mornings and weekends
Entry: Free
6. Near Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
Why visit: A few humble snack stalls await pilgrims and tourists near this spiritual landmark.
Highlights: – Warm butter tea – Bhutanese crackers – Light momos
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Punatsangchhu Dam Area Canteens
Why visit: Workers and travelers grab meals at simple roadside canteens that serve spicy, filling snacks.
Highlights: – Rice with ezay – Fried noodles – Egg rolls
Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Sopsokha Village Pathway Stalls
Why visit: This artsy village near Chimi Lhakhang has colorful souvenir stalls with snacks on the side.
Highlights: – Spicy puffed rice – Local cookies – Herbal tea
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Bajo Town Mini Market
Why visit: A small cluster of vegetable and spice vendors, great for seeing Punakha’s everyday life.
Highlights: – Fresh ginger and garlic – Dried red chilies – Local grains
Timing: Daily, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Local Tea & Snack Corners (Khuruthang bus stop area)
Why visit: Grab tea and traditional snacks from roadside stalls before or after local transport rides.
Highlights: – Chai and biscuits – Egg rolls – Chili-seasoned potato snacks
Timing: Morning to evening, especially busy from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Deepavali Gaind on Unsplash
