Located in the rugged Western Highlands of Papua New Guinea, the Mount Hagen Market is an experience unlike any other. The bustling marketplace is a vibrant hub of activity, where locals come to shop, trade, and socialize. From colorful tribal artifacts to exotic fruits and vegetables, the Mount Hagen Market has something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do when visiting this unique marketplace:
1. Explore the Locally-Made Crafts: The Mount Hagen Market is a great place to find unique, locally-made crafts. From hand-carved wooden sculptures to intricately woven baskets and beaded jewelry, the market is a treasure trove of traditional crafts.
2. Sample the Local Cuisine: Papua New Guinea has a unique cuisine, and the Mount Hagen Market is the perfect place to sample it. Try the local dishes such as saksak (a dumpling made from sweet potato and coconut milk) or hiniho (a spicy pork dish) and wash it down with a cold beer.
3. Buy Fresh Produce: The Mount Hagen Market is the best place to buy fresh produce in the area. From exotic fruits to fresh vegetables, the market is a great place to stock up on healthy, locally-grown food.
4. Bargain for Local Artifacts: The Mount Hagen Market is also a great place to buy traditional artifacts, such as hand-carved masks and statues. Be sure to bargain for the best price, as the locals are usually willing to negotiate.
5. Watch the Locals Trade: The Mount Hagen Market is a great place to watch the locals trade. From live chickens to fresh produce, the market is a fascinating place to observe the daily trading activities of the locals.
6. Visit the Pig Market: Every Saturday, the Mount Hagen Market hosts the Pig Market, where locals come to buy and sell pigs. It’s a great place to observe the traditional trading practices of the locals and take some unique photos.
7. Watch the Cultural Performances: Every Saturday, the Mount Hagen Market also hosts cultural performances from the local tribes. From traditional dances to singing and chanting, the performances are a great way to experience the culture of the area.
8. Buy Traditional Clothing: The Mount Hagen Market is a great place to buy traditional clothing. From brightly colored skirts and dresses to hand-woven bags and hats, you can find all kinds of unique clothing here.
9. Try the Local Snacks: The Mount Hagen Market is also a great place to sample some of the local snacks. From dried fish to sweet potato chips, the market is a great place to try some of the unique flavors of Papua New Guinea.
10. Visit the Local Shops: The Mount Hagen Market is also a great place to visit the local shops. From hardware stores to clothing stores, the market is a great place to find unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Mount Hagen Market is a unique and vibrant marketplace that is unlike any other. From traditional crafts to exotic fruits and vegetables, the market is a great place to experience the culture and traditions of Papua New Guinea. So, if you’re ever in the area, be sure to check it out!