The population of
Sikkim comprises mainly of three ethnic communities,
namely Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese, who intermingle
freely to constitute a homogenous blend. Besides these
there are other communities also who have come from the
plains and are mainly involved in business and government
services.
LEPCHAS -
They were pacifist forest foragers who worshipped
mountains, river and nature spirits. They constitute only
13% of the total population of Sikkim.
BHUTIAS -
Religion forms the main thread in the fabric life of the
Sikkimese. Nearly every Bhutia family has one family
member who became monk. Traditionally the priesthood was
regarded as the intellectual as well as spiritual elite.
They constitute 16% of the total population of Sikkim.
NEPALESE -
They are a people with a natural gaiety; their culture and
customs are as fascinating as the surroundings in which
they live. They account for 67% of the total population of
Sikkim.
