Sikkim’s population is divided into three ethnic groups – Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese each having their distinctive identity. 'Lepchas' are said to be the original inhabitants and they call themselves 'Rongtub' or 'Mutanchi' or 'the dearest people of mother earth'. Majority of the Lepcha population are settled in Dzongu, Penlong and Dekchu valleys of northern Sikkim or in Darjeeling, Kalimpong area. They love the solitude of the forest and live in harmony with their environment. Lepcha’s folk songs, dances and folk tales reflect their wonderful synthesis with the nature.

'Bhutias' originally came from Kham area in eastern Tibet and current Bhutan population are descendants of early settlers who followed Prince Khye-Bumsa of Kham. They are fun-loving people and practice Tibetan Buddhism (Lamaism).

'Nepalese', the third ethnic group forms the majority of Sikkim’s population. They are sub-divided into various castes and tribes such as Bawans (Brahmans), Chhetries, Gurungs, Tamangs, Rais, Limbus, Magars, Damais, Kamis etc. The majority of Nepalese population practice Hinduism while Buddhism also followed by certain groups.