Culture and Holidays in Bhutan

Languages

Bhutan is a multilingual workplace environment, with Dzongkha and English used across industries. While Dzongkha is the national language, English is the medium of instruction in schools and is widely spoken in government and business sectors, particularly in urban areas like Thimphu and Phuentsholing. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region. 

In corporate sectors like hydropower and tourism, English is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies (MNCs) and with international partners. Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in English, though employees may use Dzongkha or other local languages informally. 

In government offices and public sector organizations, Dzongkha is the official language for legislation and high-level communication, but English is extensively used for technical documents, internal communication, and correspondence with international agencies. 

The construction and agriculture sectors rely on local languages for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Sites and farms primarily use Nepali, Sharchop, or other regional languages, while management-level communication is in English. 

In customer service and tourism, language use depends on clientele. Dzongkha is common for domestic support, while hotels, tour operators, and airlines hire speakers of Hindi, Chinese, and Japanese to cater to international visitors.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Bhutanese workplace culture combines tradition, respect for hierarchy, and Buddhist principles with a growing modern professionalism. Understanding these traits is fundamental for success in Bhutan.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

Organizations are structured and hierarchical; titles (Dasho, Sir, Madam, professional titles) are used formally in address, especially in government and corporate settings.

Email and phone etiquette

Emails are formal, using correct titles and polite phrasing.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Punctuality is valued — arriving 5-10 minutes early is recommended. Meetings often start with light small talk over tea before moving to the agenda; building a personal connection is important.

Professional dress code

In Bhutan, formal business attire is standard, with modesty valued. The traditional national dress (gho for men, kira for women) is commonly and respectfully worn in office settings. Social events like dinners are key for relationship-building — you’ll often see gatherings with tea or meals in professional contexts.

National holidays

Employees are entitled to the following National Holidays that are based on the lunar calendar and are announced annually by the government: 

• New Year’s Day
• Birth Anniversary of HM the Fifth King
• Birth Anniversary of HM the Third King
• Buddha Parinirvana
• Coronation Day
• Blessed Rainy Day
• Bhutanese New Year
• Constitution Day
• National Day 

Employees may also receive local holidays depending on their district (dzongkhag). 

Employees who work on public holidays are entitled to compensatory time off or additional pay at 200% of the ordinary wage rate, as regulated by the Bhutan Labour and Employment Act.