After descending from foreign countries, the Bhutiya tribes , one of the prominent tribes residing in the heartland of West Bengal, settled down in large numbers. They are mostly found in hilly districts of West Bengal , including Darjeeling and Kalimpong. These Bhutia tribes have crossed various passes of Himalaya region.

Main languages that these Bhutiya tribes use for carrying on conversation amongst themselves , are , namely, Sikkimese. This language have got similarity with some of the foreign languages . Also Nepali language is widely spoken by quite a number of Bhutiya tribes. A sect of Buddhism is the main religion of the Bhutiya society. In fact they follow all the rituals and rites related to this sect with great reverence and enthusiasm. Festivals and fairs are an integral part enriching the culture and tradition of the whole of the Bhutiya tribal society. The majority of these Bhutia festivals or any of their joyful functions hold religious Buddhist signification. Amongst the main festivals of Bhutiya tribes, the Losar and Losoong deserve to be mentioned.

The Bhutiya cuisine comprises of rice, which is their staple food. In fact they are amongst the conventional rice eaters. Other dishes include fried vegetables, animal meat including pork, and beef. On special occasions, however, these Bhutiya tribes consume mutton or chicken. Amongst the specialties of Bhutiya tribes are momo, steamed with meat `dumplings` and also Thukpa noodles `in broth`. Chyang is the favorite drink of the Bhutia tribes, also gaining popularity amongst the other tribal communities who reside in close association with these Bhutiya tribes. It is prepared from `fermented barley`, or `millets`. Not only they are nicely prepared, it is also dished out in a special container made up of bamboo , popularly known as Tongba. At the time of religious festivals as well as in social functions, Bhutiya tribes drinks this like tea with milk and sugar. Drinking butter tea is also a key part of their festival festivities.

Amongst Bhutia tribes of West Bengal, marriage is held and is held in high esteem. Usually intermarriage within their clans is prevalent. The Bhutiya tribes also follow a very hierarchal structure of selecting both bride and groom. What is significant is to note that discrimination amongst clan is widespread and marriage outside the community of Bhutiya tribes is not at all entertained.

As far as the occupation of Bhutiya tribes is concerned, these Bhutiya tribes are mostly farmers, producing several vegetables and fruits. Some of them also have developed expertise in weaving. Woolens, shawls are popular in various markets of West Bengal as well as its nearby provinces.