There was a time when the Bhotias were known by the name of the village to which they belonged, but as their population grew, this system broke down. Intermarriages among these people are common.

As a result of the harsh climatic and environmental conditions in the tract in which the Bhotias live, their population density is relatively low. Clans in which intermarriages were a taboo became dysfunctional due to the dwindling population as spouses were difficult to find. Other clans, which had no bar on such marriages, prospered.

Low population levels among the Bhotia clans led to the formation of sub-clans to enable marriages.

Along with the Bhotias, there co-exist a number of other communities including the Kunkias, Jetheras and Anwals. They were originally servants and tenants of the Bhotia traders. Another such community is that of the Nitwals, who migrated from the Niti Valley of Chamoli District.