Bhote

Bhote refers to a group of people indigenous to the Himalayan regions of Nepal and Tibet. The term is often used to describe ethnic groups such as the Sherpas, Tamangs, and other related communities who traditionally inhabit the higher altitudes of the Himalayas. Historically, the Bhote people have been involved in trade, porterage, and mountaineering, leveraging their physical adaptability to high-altitude environments. Their culture is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism, reflected in their monasteries, prayer flags, and religious festivals.

The Bhote language, or rather the languages spoken by these groups, typically belong to the Tibeto-Burman language family, with many dialects exhibiting significant variations. Their traditional livelihoods have often been centered around agriculture, animal husbandry (particularly yaks), and exploiting the natural resources of the mountains. In modern times, many Bhote communities have become integral to the burgeoning tourism industry in Nepal, especially in mountaineering expeditions and trekking. Their resilience, cultural richness, and unique way of life continue to be significant aspects of the Himalayan landscape and identity. The term "Bhote" itself is sometimes considered a broad or generalized descriptor, and individual ethnic groups often prefer to be identified by their specific tribal names.