One rarely discussed topic is how travelers can find non-English-speaking guides in Bhutan. Bhutanese guides go through intensive training of at least three months, before becoming a licensed tour guide.
Facts about Bhutanese Guides
Bhutan has approximately 3,500 licensed tourist guides, including a growing number of women and language guides. These professionals earn between Nu 2,500 and Nu 3,000 per day (about $28–34 USD). Most Bhutanese guides speak English fluently, but some specialize in other languages, such as Chinese, Spanish, French, and German, to name a few. Do keep in mind that language guides charge higher rates than regular guides.
Due to Bhutan’s proximity to India, many regular guides also speak Hindi fairly well.
Is Hiring a Language Guide Worth It?
It depends on the traveller. However, if your English is poor you could opt to hire a language guide. In certain cases, travelers who speak English fluently, prefer guides that speak their native language. Hiring a Bhutanese language guide could add to a whole another experience, as most Bhutanese speak a minimum of two languages. For instance, if your guide speaks Spanish, expect to spend time with someone who speaks multiple other languages!
History of Language Guides in Bhutan
Language guides weren’t always available in Bhutan. In a way, even regular guides function as language guides, since English is technically a foreign language here. Some languages, like Chinese, gained popularity as Bhutan sought to attract more Chinese-speaking travelers. Others, like Spanish, have a more unique history. Some guides learned Spanish while studying abroad and later transitioned into tourism as a career.
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