Popularly known as Sunday market, the Centenary Farmer’s Market is located at a walking distance from the main town in the capital.
Up to 80% of the local population is involved in agriculture and it remains the primary source of livelihood for the majority of the population. The sector plays a dominant role in Bhutan’s economy. The capital city gradually converting the once fertile land into concrete buildings to accommodate the increasing rural-urban migration, the city has shown its growing appetite and demand for agricultural produce. Therefore farmers across the country work hard to get their produce to the market over the weekend and this trend has evolved into a sustainable trade. A visit to the farmer’s market is always a lively scene where people from all walks of life come together and witness this amazing synergy of communities helping each other grow.
Popularly known as Sunday market, the Centenary Farmer’s Market is located at a walking distance from the main town in the capital. The two storied architecture is divided into two main sections. The ground floor mainly deals in products that are imported and the top floor deals with local organic produce. The ground floor is again divided into sub-sections of vegetables and fruits. In the top floor, the sub-sections include vegetable section, fruit section, meat (mostly dried) section, dairy section and a flower section. The produces are organically grown in Bhutan.
Vibrant colors and fresh earthy aroma makes up the Sunday market, the population swarms the market during the weekends to buy fresh produces. While a lot of vegetables are seasonal, one of the most sought items is the dried red chilies which are somehow found all year round. The dried red chilies are a much-loved delicacy of the country.
Right next to the Sunday market is the section for rice and cereals in a small one-storied structure. This section only deals with rice and cereals from across the country.
Opposite of the Centenary Farmer’s Market, when crossing a small traditional bridge is a small handicraft marketplace. This market is only active during the weekends as it is closed on weekdays.