India and Bhutan share a long and multifaceted relationship, underpinned by deep-rooted socio-cultural, historical, geographical, and religious ties. The period from 1998 to 2013 marked a notable evolution in these relations, with a concerted focus on socio-cultural exchanges, educational cooperation, and religious diplomacy. Although the bilateral relationship has predominantly been defined by economic and political engagement, substantial progress was also made in the socio-cultural sphere, fostering enhanced people-to-people connections, academic collaboration, and cultural diplomacy. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-cultural dimensions of India-Bhutan relations between 1998 and 2013, reviewing key events and initiatives that shaped this aspect of the bilateral engagement. It also reflects on the role played by both governments in nurturing these ties and assesses the contemporary significance of these relations, particularly in the context of an evolving geopolitical landscape.