The Hidden Harmony: Exploring the Monpa People Shaminism and Bonism in Bhutan
Nestled deep within the black mountains of Bhutan lies a world less touched by time — the serene, spiritually rich homeland of the Monpa people, the last remaining people who still practice Bonism and Shaminism in Bhutan. Among the least-known ethnic groups in the country, the Monpa live primarily in Trongsa District, especially in the remote village of Jangbi, Wangling and Phumjor perched on a forested ridge above the Mangde Chhu River and is also a part of Jigme Singye National Park. Their way of life offers a compelling glimpse into Bhutan’s ancient cultural mosaic and the delicate balance between tradition and nature.
How to get there?
A one-hour drive from Trongsa takes us to Langthel Gewog. From there, the journey continues through several villages, including Dang Dung, until we reach Tongtophy village after approximately 45 minutes. At Tongtophy, a dirt road branches off—this is the route we follow for about 10 kilometers. This path leads us to Janbi village, winding through pristine forests, across hanging bridges, and over ancient stone steps. Along the way, other branches of the dirt road diverge toward the two Monpa villages of Wangling and Phumjor. The entire journey from Trongsa to Janbi takes roughly 2.5 hours.
The drive from Trongsa to Langthel Gewog is scenic. You will come across women at work, paddy fields and many a number of beautiful villages or farmers at work.
You can also enroute Kuenga Rabten Palace , Taktsi School .
Along the way if you are lucky you will see Golden Langur and other rare species of birds.
A Glimpse into Monpa Identity
The Monpas are believed to be among the earliest settlers of Bhutan, and they are considered to have close ethnic and linguistic ties with the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh in India and Doya of Dagana. Though small in number, their identity is deeply preserved in their language, rituals, and close-knit communities.
They speak a language known as Monkha, part of the Tibeto-Burman family. However, with increasing exposure to Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language) and modern influences, Monkha is now listed as endangered — a sobering reminder of how easily ancient traditions can fade away.
Village Life: Harmony with Nature
Jangbi and other Monpa villages are surrounded by dense subtropical forests, they are situated in the heart of Jigme Singye National Park home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna. The Monpa people are traditionally shifting cultivators, practicing slash-and-burn agriculture (locally known as tsheri farming), growing maize, millet, and barley. They have also started transitioning into more sustainable farming techniques in recent years.
Bamboo and cane craft is an essential skill passed down through generations. Monpa artisans create intricately woven baskets, tools, and other daily-use items entirely by hand, using forest resources with care and reverence. These skills not only serve practical needs but are also a symbol of resilience and cultural pride.
Spiritual Beliefs and Traditions
Though many Monpas practice Bon and animist traditions, there is also a deep reverence for Buddhism, which has blended into their spiritual practices over time. Their festivals, like Chudhar, are intimate affairs, marked by storytelling, mask dances, and rituals that honor spirits of the forest, ancestors, and Buddhist deities alike.
Monpa homes are typically built from stone and wood, with open hearths that serve as the heart of the family. Oral traditions — folktales, songs, and proverbs — form the basis of education and moral guidance for the young.
Bonism Practice in Bhutan
They primarily observe 2 rituals as a part of Bonism or Shaminism Practice in Bhutan
i) Emergency Ritual
11) Yearly Ritual
Procedure for Annual Ritual
- Preparation of the Annual Ritual
2. Essential Material For Rituals
3. Locally Made offering to the deities
4. Making Deities Weapon
5.Offering Sequence
5. Shaman continue Rituals till next morning and bidding farewell to the deity.
https://studio.youtube.com/video/U6eIcbj_KSU/
If this is something you want to witness then you need to inform your tour operator months ahead so necessary preparation is made
Where to stay ?
There are no certified homestay at Monpa village. There is a designated campsite where you can pitch the tent and stay or the other option is to make an excursion from Trongsa which is 2 to 3 hours drive or you can stay in the guest house which is 10 Km drive from Jangbi village. The facilities at the guest house is very basic.
Preserving a Living Heritage
As Bhutan modernizes, the Monpa way of life stands at a crossroads. While education, healthcare, and connectivity bring new opportunities, they also pose challenges to preserving linguistic and cultural heritage. Bhutan’s government and local NGOs have taken steps to document Monkha, promote cultural tourism, and empower Monpa youth to take pride in their roots.
You can also stop at Jangbi School cosisting of 50-60 number of Students. The place is very remote so children will be happy to receive some color pencil, books, toys etc
The children visit the school in the traditional Monpa dress only on Tuesday
Conclusion
In tracing the spiritual and cultural journey of the Monpa people, we uncover a profound harmony that exists quietly within the folds of Bhutan’s remote mountains. The interweaving of Shamanism and Bonism in Monpa life is not merely a legacy of the past. It is a living, breathing tradition that continues to shape their worldview, rituals, and relationship with nature. These belief systems, rooted deeply in the rhythms of the land and the spirits that dwell within it, reveal an indigenous wisdom that values balance, reverence, and resilience.
As we explore their secluded villages, sacred sites, and ceremonial practices, we are reminded that Bhutan’s cultural richness is not only found in its monasteries and temples but also in the ancestral voices of its lesser-known communities. The spiritual path of the Monpa people is a hidden harmony—quiet yet profound, ancient yet enduring—inviting us to reflect on the many ways that culture, belief, and the natural world are deeply intertwined.
Google Reviews
Jenny Chua
In Nov 24, we had the privilege of exploring Bhutan with the guidance of an exceptional tour guide, Kinlay Dorji & Jigme Tshering from Bhutan Best Inbound Tour agency and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. From the moment we arrived, they ensured every detail of our trip was perfectly planned and executed, making it truly stress-free and enjoyable. Their deep knowledge of Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions was remarkable, and they shared stories and insights that brought the country’s rich heritage to life. Whether we were visiting iconic landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery or strolling through serene villages, their passion for Bhutan was evident and contagious. What truly stood out was their dedication to providing personalized service. They were always attentive to our needs, ensuring we were comfortable, well-fed, and immersed in the beauty of Bhutan. Their warm hospitality, patience, and ability to adapt to our preferences made the journey unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, I cannot recommend this tour guide enough. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you experience the heart and soul of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. An absolute five-star experience!
Reviewed on: 1/14/2025
Terri KimOur first time in Bhutan couldn’t have been as amazing & memorable as it was without the wonderful team behind Bhutan Best Inbound Tour who were with us every step of the way. We decided (very last minute) to go to Bhutan with only weeks to spare. I decided to go with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour based on online reviews, responsiveness (via WhatsApp), and reasonable pricing. Because our trip was short (5 days/4 nights) and we already rushed to book our flights/accommodations, we were mainly looking for a dedicated tour guide/driver to explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Deki, who planned our itinerary, was responsive and accommodating to all my inquiries and requests. She answered my questions, and put my mind at ease when it came to our visas. She was lovely to work with, and made us feel prepared before our trip. But what she couldn’t have prepared us for was how amazing Bhutan would be and how much we would love our trip. We arrived at Paro International Airport early in the morning, and were greeted outside with white scarves by our guide and our driver who were patiently waiting for us. Our guide, Phub, was fantastic. Not only was he like a walking encyclopedia about his country, the culture, and Buddhism, he was personable and so funny. He was also quite the photographer, capturing the best angles and even directing us on how to pose. Phub was also very flexible with our daily schedule, and accommodating to our requests, which we appreciated immensely. He also shared tips & tricks that only locals would be privy to, which made this trip much more intimate and fulfilling than if we decided to go without a tour guide. I HIGHLY recommend a tour guide if you are thinking of going to Bhutan for the first time. We had two drivers, both very humble and excellent drivers. I felt very safe in the car despite impatient drivers, the occasional cow and dog, and landslides. On our day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, a landslide extended our trip by an hour each way, but our driver was patient and made sure we were comfortable. The breathtaking views (and company) made the delays worth it. We were so fortunate to have such wonderful drivers who prioritized our safety. From the kindness of the people to the delicious food, from the beautiful weather to the rich culture, and of course, Tiger’s Nest (which left us breathless, both figuratively and literally), Bhutan is truly a special country that left us with so many beautiful memories. We plan to visit Bhutan again, and when we do, we can’t wait to work with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for all our needs. If you’re looking for a tour guide, I highly recommend reaching out to Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for a seamless experience
Reviewed on: 12/24/2024
Suresh KaruI had an amazing 7 nights 8 day trip to Bhutan, Phub my guide and driver Nima made it a memorable vacation. They were professional , kind and always helpful , also their local knowledge made it an experience unforgettable to me. The hotels they choose had excellent service, the cook made my favourite dish Idli. The home stay hostess was always smiling and kind. They also had the best price for the tour package.If I ever return to Bhutan I would choose them again Hands down .
Reviewed on: 9/30/2024
Charles VrtisEverything about my experience in Bhutan was outstanding from start to finish! It is very serene, stunningly beautiful, and its people are exceptionally kind and welcoming! Of course, had I not chosen the right tour operator, I might have left with different feelings. Fortunately, I selected Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. From the start, my experience with them was smooth and seamless. Deki, my contact in arranging the logistics, could not have been more responsive and helpful. She made everything so easy, including arranging for a visa. And, I cannot say enough good things about my guide and driver. They really made my experience in Bhutan so wonderfully memorable. I felt completely comfortable and safe with the driver, Jigme. Not only that, he always had a smile on his face. My guide, Tenzin (“Tax”] Loday was great. He was prompt, reliable, and very engaging. He is now my Bhutanese brother! His love for his country shows, and his clear and helpful explanations about its history and sites could not have been better. Thank you Bhutan Inbound Tour!
Reviewed on: 3/30/2024
Brian NYCHuge thanks to Bhutan Best Inbound Tours for an amazing experience in magical Bhutan! My guide Phub is a true expert who taught me so much about the history and culture of Bhutan, and he took perfect care of me each and every place we visited. Our driver Lobzang got us to all of our destinations safely and on time, and they made a great team, always keeping me smiling and in awe of the beauty of bucket list Bhutan. Everything was smooth from start to finish, the hotels were all excellent and comfortable, and I highly recommend Bhutan Inbound and my friends Phub and Lobzang to anyone planning a trip to stunning Bhutan!
Reviewed on: 10/14/2023
