- The LANGUAGES -
A rich linguistic landscape shaped by culture, geography, and tradition
Dzonghka: The national language
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Bhutan’s national language is Dzongkha
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used in government, administration, and formal settings.
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It plays an important role in unifying the country and is taught in schools.
A mosaic of regional languages
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Beyond Dzongkha, Bhutan is home to a rich diversity of languages, with more than 20 distinct languages and dialects spoken across the country.
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These languages often vary from one valley to another, reflecting Bhutan’s mountainous geography and the unique cultural identities of its regions.
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While many Bhutanese people understand Dzongkha, they may speak their own regional language at home.
What about English?
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English is also widely used and serves as the main language of education.
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It is commonly spoken in urban areas, in schools, and within the tourism sector, making communication generally easy for visitors.
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Most guides, hotel staff, and younger Bhutanese speak good English, allowing for smooth and meaningful interactions throughout your journey.
- English/Dzonghka glossary -
Few words to know in Dzonghka for travellers
Hello
Thank you
How are you ?
I am fine
My name is ...
What’s your name ?
I am from .... .
It’s delicious !
A monk from religious master
A reincarnation from a master
A fortress
A temple
A secret revealer
Kuzuzampo la
Khadinché la
Nga lé chim bé chui ga la?
Nga lé chim be yi la!
Na gi ming ...
Ché gi ming ga ché mo?
Na ... lé yi la.
Chim bé
Lama Rimpoche
Tulku
Dzong
Lakhang
Terton
