Souvenir Shopping Tips in Tibet

Hunting down and bargaining for quality authentic souvenirs is an important part of any travel experience, Tibet included! Tibet Ctrip Travel Service-TCTS shares how to find the best souvenirs at the best prices in Tibet.

Spending time hunting and bargaining for authentic souvenirs is an essential part of any Tibet tour! Many travelers feel they are living in a dream world as they browse through hustling and bustling markets in Tibet. However, when landing in a new place, it can be difficult to know where and how to buy authentic souvenirs at the lowest possible prices. To help travelers find the best deals, Tibet Ctrip Travel Service-TCTS (www.tibetctrip.com) has released new shopping tips in Tibet. In general, travelers have the best chance of purchasing authentic souvenirs from Tibetan-owned shops. Tibet Ctrip provides details on where to buy, what to buy, and how to bargain in Tibet.

Where to Buy

Authentic souvenirs can be found all over Tibet, although, one of the most extensive selections can be found at Barkhor Bazaar in Lhasa. Tibet Ctrip’s travel itineraries often include some time for travelers to explore its winding pathways, which filled with shops and souvenir stalls! There is also a Tibetan market in Shigatse, while the selection of souvenirs may be smaller; many travelers have found lower prices on souvenirs like prayer flags, prayer wheels, and Tibetan opera masks.

What to Buy

There is no shortage of selection; travelers are likely to have no problem finding something that fits their tastes and interests! Deals can be had on everything from hand-made jewelry and jade to beautifully woven Tibetan carpets and Thangkas. Travelers who have something specific in mind are advised to ask their native Tibetan guide for advice on where to find the best quality for the best price.

How to Bargain

In most cases, items in shops or on souvenir stalls are not marked with prices. Bargaining is normal part of shopping in Tibet and is just as much fun for you as it is for the vendors! Even items, such as jewelry, that are on display with marked prices are typically open for bargaining. It is not unusual for foreign travelers to be initially offered very high prices. Travelers are advised to respond with an offer well below the initial offer and not to be afraid to walk away if the vendor is unwilling to budge. At the same time, don’t push to hard and remember that a few RMB means much more to them than it is to most travelers.

Hunting down the perfect souvenir then negotiating the price is thrilling for many travelers. In Tibet, there are all sorts of authentic arts and crafts for sell; travelers are welcome to ask their native Tibet guide for tips on finding the souvenir they are looking for. On a Tibet tour, please remember to shop responsibly and support the Tibetan community. There’s a souvenir to fit nearly all tastes and budgets, quality souvenirs help create lasting travel memories!

For more insider tips of shopping in Tibet, please contact Tibet Ctrip by email, service@tibetctrip.com.