One of the charming quirks you’ll encounter when travelling through Bhutan is just how many people share the same names. You’ll quickly notice a delightful abundance of Dorjis, a steady stream of Ugyens, and more Tsherings than you can count. That’s because, in Bhutanese tradition, surnames simply aren’t used—unless, of course, you belong to the Royal Family, whose members carry the distinguished surname Wangchuck.
No Surnames? Here's How Bhutanese Names Work
Without family names to distinguish them, Bhutanese individuals are typically recognised by their full given names. In cases where several people share the same name, you might hear them referred to by their hometown or a descriptive trait. So don’t be surprised if you meet someone introduced as “Thimphu Karma”—it simply means Karma from Thimphu. And since most Bhutanese names are unisex, you might find yourself politely clarifying whether that Karma is male or female!
Who Names the Children in Bhutan?
Interestingly, naming a child in Bhutan is not a parental decision. Instead, this honour is entrusted to a lama or Rinpoche, who selects a name imbued with spiritual meaning. These names are often chosen with great care, based on Buddhist teachings, astrological elements, and blessings for the child’s future.
Druk Wangditse Lhakhang: A Temple Steeped in Spiritual Significance
For travellers eager to experience this cultural tradition firsthand, there’s no better place than Druk Wangditse Lhakhang. This sacred temple, perched above Thimphu, is rich in both history and spiritual energy.
Sacred Deities You'll Encounter at the Temple
The temple itself is a three-storey treasure trove. At the top level is the Goenkhang, where statues of Bhutan’s protective deities reside. On the second floor, you’ll find striking murals and finely crafted figures of important deities. Among them are:
Pelden Lhamo (Mahakali) – a fierce female protector in tantric Buddhism
Pel Yeshey Goenpo (Mahakala) – known for clearing spiritual and physical obstacles
Tsheringma – the goddess of longevity and abundance
How to Get to Druk Wangditse Lhakhang
Several scenic trails lead to the temple, the most popular beginning at Sangaygang Viewpoint. This route offers a peaceful 30-minute walk through pine forests and mountain views—a favourite not just for hikers, but also for mountain bikers. Alternatively, visitors can also begin their trek from Dechen Phodrang or Zilukha Nunnery.
Views from Druk Wangditse Lhakhang
When's the Best Time to Visit?
The best times to visit Bhutan are spring and autumn, when the weather is clear and the landscape bursts into colour. But really, the walk is more than a means to reach a destination. It’s a serene escape into nature, with sweeping views of Thimphu Valley unfolding as you go.
Immerse Yourself in Bhutan's Naming Tradition
And if you’d like to take your Bhutan journey a step further, why not receive a Bhutanese name yourself? Taking part in a naming ceremony is a beautiful way to connect with Bhutan’s deep spiritual roots. Held in a sacred site like Druk Wangditse Lhakhang, it’s a moment many visitors find truly unforgettable.
Planning a Naming Ceremony During Your Trip
If this is something you’d love to experience, just let your Bhutan Travel Specialist know—they’ll be more than happy to arrange it along with other meaningful experiences that make your trip to Bhutan truly personal.
