Few Nepali Words that every tourist should know before visiting Nepal

Few Nepali Words that every tourist should know before visiting Nepal.

Nepal is in the heart of the Himalayas, traveler's paradise with stunning landscapes, unique culture   and welcoming hospitality. Whether you're trekking to the famous Everest Base Camp or exploring the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley, Dhaulagiri Circuit trek or many others trekking trails, taking the time to learn a few words in Nepali can improve your experience and interactions with locals. Here are some words and phrases for you to get started with:

1. Namaste (नमस्ते)

Meaning:  Hello / Greetings

Usage:  The universal greeting in Nepal, often accompanied by a slight bow with palms joined together.

2. Dhanyabad (धन्यवाद)

Meaning:  Thank you

Usage:  Express gratitude to locals, guides, and hosts along your trek.

3. Sanchai (संचै)

i.Meaning:  Sanchai with ? refers to “Are you ok?”.

ii.Meaning:  Sanchai refers to “I’m ok”. This is the answer to the question asked above.

Usage: Use this polite term to ask for well-being and its reply.

4. Ramro (राम्रो)

Meaning:  Good / Nice

Usage:  Describe something positive or express satisfaction.

 5. Kasto cha? (कस्तो छ?)

Meaning:  How are you?

Usage:  Use to inquire about someone's well-being.

 6. Thik chha (ठीक छ)

Meaning:  I'm fine / It's alright

Usage: Respond to inquiries about your well-being or confirm something is okay.

7. Khana (खाना)

Meaning: Food

Usage: Discuss meals and dining options.

8. Pani (पानी)

Meaning: Water

Usage:  Ask for water or inquire about its availability.

9. Ghar (घर)

Meaning: House / Home

Usage:  Ask for directions to a local's home or guesthouse.

10. Bazaar (बजार)

Meaning: Market

Usage:  Inquire about the location of local markets or shops.

11. Kati? (कति?)

Meaning: How much?

Usage:  Ask about prices when shopping or bargaining.

12. Khoj (खोज)

Meaning:  Search / Look for

Usage: Seek directions or assistance in finding something.

13. Himal (हिमाल)

Meaning: Himalayas

Usage: Appreciate the majestic mountains surrounding you.

14. Dherai (धेरै)

Meaning: Many / Much

Usage: Quantify objects or describe quantities.

15. Chiso (चिसो)

Meaning: Cold

Usage: Cold drinks, describe weather conditions or ask for warm clothing recommendations.

16. Pheri bhetaula (फेरी भेटौला)

Meaning:  See you again  

Usage:  Bid farewell to newfound friends and locals, leaving a positive impression of your journey.

17. Nepali Chiya (नेपाली चिया)

Meaning:  Nepali Tea

Usage: Very famous drink in Nepal. This is hot drink, can drink with Breakfast, Lunch and dinner too.

18. Tatopani (तातो पानी)

Meaning: Hot Water

Usage: Hot water is used as a drink and shower in cold places. 

Conclusion 

Learning these basic words and phrases will not only enhance your trekking experience in Nepal, but also create meaningful connections with the local communities you meet along the way. Nepalese appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak their language, regardless of their language skills. So, before you lace up your boots and head out on your adventure, take a moment to practice your Nepali vocabulary. It is a very welcoming sign during your time in Nepal.