VAST Bhutan Art Gallery
Bhutan's oldest contemporary art institution, showcasing local talent and fostering creativity. Discover unique artworks and support emerging artists.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
VAST Bhutan Art Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bhutan's oldest contemporary art institution, showcasing local talent and fostering creativity. Discover unique artworks and support emerging artists.
"Amazing creativity by Bhutanese artists. A visit here is great to pair up with other local attractions."
Support Local Artists
Consider purchasing unique art pieces directly from the artists. Custom orders are also possible! :moneybag:
Combine with Other Sites
Pair your visit with the Tarayana Foundation shop and National Textile Museum nearby. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
His Majesty the King's Art
Main Gallery
Witness the exquisite hand-crafted art of Buddha by His Majesty the 5th King, a truly special piece.
Contemporary Bhutanese Artworks
Exhibition Halls
Explore a diverse range of creative and enriching art by professional Bhutanese artists.
Budding Artist Creations
Gallery Spaces
Discover unique and genuine art pieces from emerging Bhutanese artists, with options for custom orders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Bhutanese Contemporary Art
Location & Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Support Local Artists
Consider purchasing unique art pieces directly from the artists. Custom orders are also possible! :moneybag:
Combine with Other Sites
Pair your visit with the Tarayana Foundation shop and National Textile Museum nearby. :world_map:
Enjoy the Surroundings
Take time to admire the beautiful rock gardens and river views surrounding the gallery. :cherry_blossom:
Tips
from all over the internet
Support Local Artists
Consider purchasing unique art pieces directly from the artists. Custom orders are also possible! :moneybag:
Combine with Other Sites
Pair your visit with the Tarayana Foundation shop and National Textile Museum nearby. :world_map:
Enjoy the Surroundings
Take time to admire the beautiful rock gardens and river views surrounding the gallery. :cherry_blossom:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise VAST Bhutan for its dedication to contemporary art and its role in fostering local talent. The gallery is noted for its amiable atmosphere and the opportunity to see unique works, including those by His Majesty the King. While specific details on hours can be scarce, the overall experience is highly regarded for its artistic richness and community spirit.
"Bhutan's oldest and premiere institution dedicated to the education, growth, promotion and exhibition of contemporary art.
Great exhibitions, very amiable people and such a great community.
A visit here is great to pair up with a visit to the Tarayana Foundation shop and the National Textile Museum"
Loven RAMOS
"Amazing creativity by Bhutanese artists.
Please don't forget to get a sight of the art done by His Majesty the King 👑"
Yam Kumar Poudel
"VAST Bhutan is located just in line with Kaja Throm in Thimphu inside Tarayana Building. It is surrounded with beautiful rock gardens with varieties of flowers and plants next to Wangchu River.
Inside this Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu (VAST) one can see the enriching and creative art work by the professional artist.
The master piece of art we see here is His Majesty the 5th King's hand crafted art of Buddha. This is one of the most beautiful piece inside here.
Therefore visit VAST Bhutan when you are exploring Kaja Throm in Thimphu."
Sajan Rai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
VAST Bhutan is located in Thimphu, inside the Tarayana Building, near Kaja Throm. Taxis are readily available in Thimphu and can take you directly to the gallery. The area is also pleasant for a walk if you are staying nearby.
While Thimphu has a public bus system, it might not be the most direct route to VAST. Taxis are generally the most convenient and affordable option for tourists to reach the gallery.
You can use GPS navigation on your phone and search for 'VAST Bhutan Art Gallery' or 'Tarayana Building, Thimphu'. Asking locals for directions to the Tarayana Building is also a good option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of admission fees for VAST Bhutan in reviews, suggesting it may be free to enter and browse. It's always a good idea to check their official channels if available.
Specific opening hours are not widely published, but it's generally recommended to visit during standard daytime business hours on weekdays. It's best to inquire locally or check their social media for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, VAST Bhutan is a place to get genuine art pieces from budding artists. You can choose pieces you like or order custom art from well-seasoned artists.
VAST Bhutan is described as Bhutan's oldest and premiere institution dedicated to contemporary art, functioning as a studio and exhibition space for artists. It's open for artists to unleash their creativity.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see enriching and creative artwork by professional and budding Bhutanese artists, including contemporary pieces and a special hand-crafted art of Buddha by His Majesty the 5th King. +1
Absolutely! VAST Bhutan offers a fantastic opportunity to find genuine and unique art pieces created by local artists, making for memorable souvenirs.
While not guaranteed, visiting during the afternoon might increase your chances of encountering artists who are often present at the studio.
The atmosphere is often described as peaceful, with walls filled with paintings that can bring inner peace to visitors. It's a space dedicated to creativity and artistic expression.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage or politely ask gallery staff before taking pictures, especially of specific artworks.
The hand-crafted art of Buddha by His Majesty the 5th King is highlighted as a particularly beautiful and noteworthy piece that many visitors would want to capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the afternoon when artists might be present, offering a chance for children to see art being created. The surrounding rock gardens also provide a pleasant outdoor space for kids to explore before or after the gallery visit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Pay special attention to the works by His Majesty the 5th King, which are considered masterpieces. Engaging with the 'amiable people' at the gallery can also provide deeper insights into the local art scene and individual artists' inspirations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Bhutanese Contemporary Art
Visitors can expect to find a diverse array of artistic expressions, reflecting the unique cultural landscape and modern influences on Bhutanese society. From traditional motifs reinterpreted through contemporary lenses to entirely new forms of artistic exploration, VAST Bhutan offers a compelling glimpse into the evolving art scene. The presence of His Majesty the 5th King's own artwork adds a significant cultural and historical dimension to the collection, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Bhutanese art and heritage.
Beyond viewing, VAST Bhutan also offers opportunities for engagement. The gallery is known for its amiable people and the potential to connect with artists, perhaps even commissioning a custom piece. This interactive aspect, combined with the quality and originality of the art, makes a visit to VAST Bhutan a truly enriching experience, supporting the growth and sustainability of the arts in Bhutan.
Exploring the Artistic Landscape
A particularly revered piece is the hand-crafted art of Buddha by His Majesty the 5th King, described as one of the most beautiful pieces in the collection. This artwork, alongside the creations of other professional artists, offers a profound connection to Bhutan's spiritual and cultural identity. The gallery also champions budding artists, providing them with a space to exhibit and sell their work, allowing visitors to discover fresh talent and acquire unique pieces.
For those interested in art acquisition, VAST Bhutan is an excellent destination. You can find genuine art pieces and even commission custom works from seasoned artists. This direct support of local talent ensures that your visit contributes meaningfully to the Bhutanese art community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit