Official Language of Bhutan

Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, is a member of the Tibetic language family and is written using the Tibetan script and is spoken by approximately 130,000 people in Bhutan, as well as in parts of Nepal and India. The term “Dzongkha” translates to “the language of the fortresses,” reflecting Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, where fortresses (dzongs) play a significant role in the country’s history. Dzongkha is written using the Tibetan script, which was introduced in the 7th century AD. While many Bhutanese people are proficient in English—especially in urban areas and among younger generations—learning Dzongkha can enhance your travel experience by allowing you to connect more deeply with locals and their culture.

Other Languages Spoken In Bhutan

In addition to Dzongkha, Bhutan is home to several other languages that reflect its ethnic diversity. The most prominent among these include:

• Tshangla (Sharchop): Predominantly spoken in eastern Bhutan, it serves as a lingua franca in that region.
• Nepali: An Indo-Aryan language widely spoken in southern Bhutan, particularly among the Lhotshampa community.
• Bumthangkha: Spoken in central Bhutan, particularly in the Bumthang district.

Other minority languages include Kheng, Brokkat, Brokpa, Chocangaca, Lakha, and various dialects of Tibetan such as Khams Tibetan. Each of these languages contributes to the cultural richness of Bhutan and reflects the lifestyles and traditions of their respective communities[3][4][5].

Overview of Languages Spoken in Bhutan

Language	Language Family	Speakers (Approx.)	Region
Dzongkha	Tibeto-Burman	171,000	Nationwide
Tshangla	Tibeto-Burman	~100,000	Eastern Bhutan
Nepali	Indo-Aryan	~300,000	Southern Bhutan
Bumthangkha	Tibeto-Burman	~20,000	Central Bhutan
Brokkat	Tibeto-Burman	~300	Central Bhutan
Brokpa	Tibeto-Burman	~5,000	Eastern Bhutan
Chocangaca	Tibeto-Burman	~20,000	Kurichu Valley
Lakha	Tibeto-Burman	~8,000	Central Bhutan

Additional Notes on Language Usage

• Dzongkha was declared the national language in 1971 and is mandatory in schools. It acts as a lingua franca among various linguistic communities within Bhutan.
• Tshangla serves a similar purpose in the east while Nepali holds significance in the south.
• The presence of multiple languages highlights the cultural diversity within Bhutan, with each language often tied to specific ethnic groups and regions.

In summary, understanding the linguistic landscape of Bhutan not only enriches one’s travel experience but also provides insights into the cultural identity and heritage of its people.

Dzongkha Language Guide

Pronunciation Guide

Dzongkha has a unique phonetic system that includes 30 consonants and 5 vowels. Here are some key pronunciation rules:

• Vowels:
• a: as in “but”
• e: as in “may”
• i: as in “fit”
• o: as in “go”
• u: as in “food”
• Consonants:
• Consonants are generally pronounced similarly to English, but some have aspirated forms indicated by an ‘h’ following them (e.g., ‘ph’ is pronounced like ‘p’ but with a breathy sound).

Basic Vocabulary and Phrases

Numbers 1-20

Dzongkha	Pronunciation	Dzongkha	Pronunciation
1	Chi	11	Chu-tham-chi
2	Nyi	12	Chu-tham-nyi
3	Sum	13	Chu-tham-sum
4	Zhi	14	Chu-tham-zhi
5	Nga	15	Chu-tham-ngay
6	Dru	16	Chu-tham-dru
7	Duen	17	Chu-tham-duen
8	Gay	18	Chu-tham-gay
9	Gu	19	Chu-tham-gu
10	Chu Tham	20	Nyi-chu

Days of the Week

Dzongkha	Pronunciation
Sunday	Nyima
Monday	Zangmo
Tuesday	Tselpa
Wednesday	Choezang
Thursday	Ngawa
Friday	Choezang
Saturday	Zangmo

Months

Dzongkha	Pronunciation
January	Zangchhu
February	Nyichhu
March	Chubchhu
April	Nyi-chhu
May	Zhi-chhu
June	Nga-chhu
July	Dru-chhu
August	Duen-chhu
September	Gay-chhu
October	Gu-chhu
November	Chutham-chhu
December	Nyi-chutham

Greetings

• Hello: Kuzoo zangpo (la)
• Goodbye: Shu lay log jay gae
• How are you?: Gaday bay zhui?
• Thank you: Kadrin chhe la

Polite Expressions

• Please: Zhey!
• Excuse me: Tsip maza

Basic Shopping Phrases

• How much is this?: Teru ga they chi mo?
• I would like this: Nga zhe ga yuh

Ordering Food

• I want…: Nga … yuh
• Common food items:
  • Butter tea: Suja
  • Dumplings: Momos
  • Chili: Ema

Transportation Terms

• Taxi: La khor
• Bus: Bas
• Car: Numkhor

Directions

• Where is…?: Chhabsa gathey mo?
• Left: Kham
• Right: Yung

Hotel and Accommodation Vocabulary

• Room: Gey
• Reservation: Tsenchung

Emergency Phrases

• Help!: Tsip maza!
• Call the police!: Chhodu gya!

Common Questions

• What is your name?: Chhoe gi ming ga chi mo?
• Where are you from?: Chhoe gatey lay mo?

Weather Terms

• Sunny: Drukpa
• Rainy: Chhu

Cultural Etiquette Phrases

Understanding local customs is crucial. Use phrases like:

• “Thank you” often to show appreciation.

Health and Medical Terms

• I am sick.: Nga nau mey.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it’s polite to say:

• “This is delicious.” – Zhimbay.

Local Attractions Vocabulary

Familiarize yourself with terms related to popular sites:

• Temple: Lhakhang

Currency and Payment Terms

The currency used is Ngultrum (Nu). Key phrases include:

• “How much?” – Ani ga chi mo?

Social Interactions

Engage with locals using simple phrases:

• “I like Bhutan.” – Nga Druk gai.

Conclusion

Learning basic Dzongkha phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience in Bhutan. It not only helps you navigate daily interactions but also shows respect for the local culture. Practice these phrases regularly, and don’t hesitate to use them while engaging with the friendly Bhutanese people!

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