Language

In Bhutan, the official language is Dzongkha, which is spoken by the majority of the population. Language diversity in Bhutan reflects its cultural richness and ethnic diversity. Dzongkha plays a central role in national identity and communication, while regional languages and English contribute to the multilingual landscape of the country. For visitors, English is generally sufficient for communication in urban areas and tourist sites, though learning a few basic phrases in Dzongkha can enhance the travel experience and interactions with locals. Here’s an overview of languages spoken in Bhutan:

1. Dzongkha: Dzongkha is the national language of Bhutan and serves as the lingua franca. It is taught in schools and used in government administration, formal settings, and media. It is also the language used in religious ceremonies and rituals.
2. Regional Languages: Apart from Dzongkha, Bhutan is linguistically diverse with 19 regional languages spoken in different parts of the country. Some of the major regional languages include:
   1. Tshangla: Spoken primarily in eastern Bhutan, Tshangla is one of the most widely spoken languages after Dzongkha. It has several dialects and is also spoken in parts of neighboring Arunachal Pradesh in India.
   1. Lhotshamkha (Nepali): This is spoken by the Lhotshampa community, which has Nepalese ancestry and resides mainly in the southern foothills of Bhutan. It has influences from Nepali and Hindi.
   1. Khengkha: Spoken in central Bhutan, particularly in the districts of Zhemgang and Trongsa. It has its own distinct dialects and characteristics.
   1. Bumthangkha: Spoken in the Bumthang district in central Bhutan, this language has variations across different valleys within the region.
3. English: English is widely used as the medium of instruction in schools and is spoken by educated Bhutanese. It is also commonly used in business, tourism, and official communications, making it accessible for international visitors.
4. Other Languages: Bhutan is also home to small communities speaking languages such as Tibetan in regions bordering Tibet, and some indigenous languages in remote areas.