Thudams

Thudams are the indigenous people living in a village called Thudam in Chepuwa VDC of the northern part of Samkhuwasabha district. They have been residing here for centuries. These minority Thudambas identify themselves as Bhote. According to a recently conducted survey there are only 19 households at present with a population of 106 only. The 132 people of 29 households and the 21 people of three households have migrated from Thudam to Guphapokhari of Samkhuwsabha and to Deurali area which borders Terhathum.
Their language, culture and costumes are similar to Dhokpya (Topkegola), Shingsawa (Lhomi) and Walung. Thudams are Buddhists and perform all rituals of life in accordance with procedures determined by Buddhism. Their main festival is Lhosar.
Because of the extreme cold weather in Thudam, farming is virtually and so animal husbandry and trade are their main occupations. Making incense by pulping Himalayan juniper leaves and branches with ghatta (water-operated mill) is the traditionally specialized occupation of Thudams. They export incense to Tibet and import salt and other commodities from there. They use yaks, cows, mules, goats and sheep for transportation. Making churpi (a kind of hardened cheese) from the milk of yak has been one of the occupation of Thudams nowadays. They collect herbs and take them down to lowlands or Terai for sale. Thudams, who have migrated, are involved in hotel business too.