A simple idea conceived in a village in Sarpang has grown into a thriving marketplace that now attracts vendors and customers from neighbouring gewogs. Chhoekhorling Mini Market, popularly known as Gyaney Market, is steadily becoming a commercial hub in the area. Its rise reflects how vision, determination, and entrepreneurship can transform a modest initiative into a vibrant centre of economic activity.
Located right next to the highway in Dekiling, Gyaney Market looks like any growing roadside town. For many people travelling between Gelephu and Sarpang, this small marketplace has become a convenient stop for almost everything. But unlike most towns, this one began from a private initiative.
Established in 2017 on leased land, the market was developed by Gyan Bdr Giri after noticing that many people had business licenses but no proper place to operate.
Today, the marketplace has grown to more than 35 business units spread across about five acres.
“I had done a survey here in the village and found that many people had licenses but no place to do business. That’s when I thought of creating a commercial space where people could come together and run their businesses,” said Gyan Bdr Giri.
Over the years, the market became so closely associated with its founder that people slowly stopped calling it Chhoekhorling Mini Market. Today, most simply know it as Gyaney Market. Shopkeepers say the location between Gelephu and Sarpang gives the town huge potential.
“The town is located between Gelephu and Sarpang and is in a perfect spot. From grocery shops to tailoring and barber shops, we can find almost everything here that is available in Gelephu town. All we need now is a cobbler shop,” said Dorji Minjur, a shopkeeper of the Chhoekhorling Mini Market.
But despite the growing infrastructure, business owners say customer flow remains lower than expected. Many say increasing competition from nearby shops and changing customer movement have affected sales.
Another shopkeeper, Khari Maya Bista Chettri said, “We are only seeing a few customers these days. This could be because many small shops and businesses are also coming up in nearby areas.”
“Compared to winter, sales have gone down this time. We usually see more customers during winter when more people travel through Gelephu. The decrease in sales could also be due to more shops opening nearby,” said Lalita Gurung, also a shopkeeper.
Despite the challenges, the market continues to operate and serve surrounding communities. The owner now plans to expand the market further and attract more businesses. So far, around 20 million ngultrum has been spent on the project, including shops, roads, parking and public facilities.
While businesses may still be finding their footing, both shopkeepers and the founder remain hopeful that with increasing development in the region, Gyaney Market will eventually grow into a thriving commercial centre for nearby communities.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
