The Bhutia people

The Bhutia are Sikkim’s Tibetan-descended Buddhist communities, the traditional holders of the monastery culture (Rumtek, Enchey, Phodong) and the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages. Their Losoong new year and monastery cham dances anchor the Sikkimese calendar.

Bhutia families traditionally keep the cham-dance masks and butter-sculpture arts alive through the monasteries.

Ask before photographing people or rituals, dress modestly at festivals and ceremonies, accept hospitality graciously, and let local hosts lead. Culture here is lived, not performed: curiosity with manners opens every door.