When visiting Nepal, learning a few basic Nepali phrases can make your trip more enjoyable and meaningful. Nepali people are warm, friendly, and deeply appreciative when visitors make an effort to speak their language, even just a little. Simple greetings like Namaste (Hello) or asking Tapaiilai kasto cha? (How are you?) can help you connect with locals and show respect for their culture. Knowing how to say Dhanyabaad (Thank you) or Maaph garnuhos (Excuse me/Sorry) will come in handy in daily interactions. Additionally, phrases like Yo kati ho? (How much is this?) or Charpi kaha cha?(Where is the bathroom?) are useful in markets, restaurants, and public spaces.
For travelers looking to experience the rich culture and hospitality of Nepal, learning a few of these common Nepali phrases not only helps with communication but also opens doors to genuine conversations and friendships with the people you meet along the way.
| English | Nepali (Romanized) |
|---|---|
| Hello | Namaste |
| How are you? | Tapaiilai kasto cha? |
| I am fine | Malai thik cha. |
| Have you eaten? | Khana khannu bhayo? |
| I want tea/coffee | Malai chiya/kāphi khana man chha. |
| Thank you | Dhanyabaad. |
| What is your name? | Tapai ko naam ke ho? |
| My name is Adam | Mero naam Adam ho. |
| Excuse me / Pardon me / Sorry | Maaph garnuhos. |
| I don’t understand | Maile bhujhina. |
| I understand | Maile bhujhe. |
| I hope we meet again | Pheri bhetaula. |
| Where is the bathroom? | Charpi kaha cha? |
| How much is this? | Yo kati ho? |
| It’s expensive | Yo mahango cha. |
| Can you make it cheaper? | Sasto garna milcha? |
| I need help | Malai madat chahinchha. |
| Is it far? | Yo ta dūr cha? |
| Okay / Alright | Thik cha. |
| No problem | Samasya chhaina. |
| Goodbye | Bidā ho. / Namaste. |
| Please | Kripaya. |
| Yes | Ho / Cha. |
| No | Hoina. |
| Delicious! | Mitho cha! |
| I am happy | Ma khusi chu. |
| I am tired | Ma thakieko chu. |
| Let’s go | Jam! / Hāmī jāu! |
| English | Nepali (Romanized) |
|---|---|
| Nepal is beautiful | Nepal dherai ramailo cha. |
| People are very kind | Manche haru dherai milansār chan. |
| I like Nepal | Malai Nepal manparcha. |
| I love Nepali food | Malai Nepali khana manparcha. |
| Your culture is amazing | Tapāiko sanskriti adbhut cha. |
| I feel at home here | Yaha malai ghar jasto lagcha. |
| Thank you for your hospitality | Tapāiko atithisatkar ko lagi dhanyabaad. |
| Can I take a photo? | Photo khichna sakincha? |
| I want to learn Nepali | Malai Nepali sikna man chha. |
