Shigatse's Local Markets: Where to Buy Handicrafts and Souvenirs
Shopping is always part of the fun of travel, and Shigatse travel is no exception. Below are the must-visit local markets that most travelers swear by.
Tashilhunpo Monastery Surrounding Street
It's no exaggeration to say that Tashilunpo Monastery is a must-visit for nearly every tourist in Shigatse, so make the most of your visit and drop by the nearby market, Tashilhunpo Monastery Surrounding Street. Step out of this monastery, and you'll be greeted by this vibrant street within the walking distance—colorful souvenir shops line the road, and the air smells like butter tea from nearby stalls, making it the perfect spot to pick up Tibetan souvenirs or grab a quick local bite. The shop owners here are friendly and often happy to share stories and customs.
Zhaxijicai Bazaar
For a more authentic, local vibe, head to Zhaxijicai Bazaar—this is where Shigatse locals go to buy traditional handicrafts, not just tourists! Tucked in the heart of the old town, the market is a colorful mix of stalls: some sell hand-woven woolen scarves, others display intricate wooden carvings of yaks and snow mountains. Most items are made by local artisans right here in Shigatse, not mass-produced elsewhere. You might even spot a craftsman sitting at his stall, weaving a small Tibetan carpet or carving a wooden prayer bead. If you're looking for something unique, try a hand-painted Tibetan mask, these masks are decorated with bright mineral paints that last for years.
Samdruptse Old Market
Samdruptse Old Market is where Shigatse's food and craft cultures collide.The market is in a historic area with traditional Tibetan houses, so you can snap photos of the colorful murals on the walls while you shop. If you book our Shigatse tour, we'll time your visit here for the afternoon, when the market is busiest.
Conclusion
Here's a little secret for first-time visitors to Tibet's markets: most stall prices are negotiable! It's all part of the fun. Just smile, be friendly, and gently ask if the seller can give you a better price. Happy treasure hunting!
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35 Comment ON "Shigatse's Local Markets: Where to Buy Handicrafts and Souvenirs"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash