Punakha will soon have a dedicated craft market to boost handicraft business. Construction works are in full swing, with around 35 per cent of the project already completed. Once complete, the market is expected to reduce reliance on imported craft items and establish Punakha as a premier destination for indigenous handicrafts.
The craft market is being constructed below Khuruthang town, near Kaja Throm.
The market will be built using mostly earth-rammed walls and wooden structures.
The Punakha District Administration is implementing the project which began in mid-last year. It is expected to be ready toward end of this year.
The market will have 27 stalls or compartment.
The market will provide dedicated space for selling locally produced handicrafts, catering to both tourists and the domestic market.
With the upcoming craft market, the district is expecting to not only promote tourism but also help preserve the culture of indigenous crafting skills and craft products and designs.
Currently, due to the lack of a dedicated craft market, there is limited access for tourists to explore local handicraft items.
The construction work is estimated to cost Nu 30 to 50 M.
Punakha is one of the main tourist destinations with strong potential to capitalise on handicraft business.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
