Basic Nepali for Travellers
Travelling in Nepal isn’t just about majestic peaks and peaceful monasteries it’s also about connecting with the people who make the Himalayas feel like home.
Learning a few simple Nepali words can instantly warm interactions, bring smiles, and deepen your travel experience.
And for Malaysian travellers, the good news is: some Nepali words sound very similar to Bahasa Melayu spoken by Malaysians and even carry the same meaning! This makes the language surprisingly easy (and fun) to pick up.
Why Learn a Bit of Nepali?
While English is widely spoken in Kathmandu and major trekking routes, using local phrases shows respect and genuine interest. Guides, porters, villagers, and teahouse owners always appreciate a traveller who tries even a little Nepali.
Just a few words can turn simple moments asking for food, saying thank you, greeting people along the trail into warm, memorable exchanges.
Useful Nepali Phrases for Your Trip
Greetings & Courtesy
- Namaste – Hello
- Dhanyabad – Thank you
- Kripaya – Please
- Maaf garnu hos – Sorry
- Ramro cha – It’s good / nice
Everyday Words
- Pani – Water
- Khana – Food
- Bato – Road / way
- Sasto – Cheap
- Mahango – Expensive
- Common Questions
- Kati ho? – How much?
- Kaha? – Where?
- Yo ke ho? – What is this?
- Safer cha? – Is it safe?
These phrases are especially handy when exploring Kathmandu’s markets, ordering meals in teahouses, or chatting along the trails in Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang.
Words Malaysians Will Instantly Understand in Nepal
One of the small delights of travelling in Nepal is discovering that some Nepali words sound just like Bahasa Melayu spoken by Malaysians and share the same meanings. Malaysians often recognise these instantly when interacting with guides or browsing local shops.
Here are the closest and most accurate matches:
1. Roti=Bread
Same word in both languages. You’ll find roti served everywhere, especially with breakfast and tea.
2. Bazar=Market
Whether in Thamel or a small mountain town, bazar means market in both Nepali and Malay.
3. Sapu=Wipe
A fun and perfect match sapu in Nepali also means “to wipe.”
4. Masala=Spices
Common across South Asia, masala means a mix of spices. You’ll see it often in Nepali menus and kitchens.
5. Dal / Dhal=Lentils
If you love dhal, you’ll feel right at home with dal bhat, Nepal’s wholesome national dish.
6. Kaca / Kaanch=Glass
Malay kaca and Nepali kaanch share the same meaning and nearly the same pronunciation.
7. Topi=Hat
Another perfect match topi means hat in both languages. In Nepal, you’ll also see the iconic Dhaka topi worn during festivals and ceremonies.
Language as Part of the Adventure
Using even a few Nepali words can make your trek feel more connected and personal. Whether greeting villagers with a friendly “Namaste,” thanking your guide with “Dhanyabad,” or recognising familiar words like roti and topi, language becomes part of the journey.
It’s these small connections a shared smile, a mutual understanding that often become travellers’ favourite memories in Nepal.
So as you trek through the Himalayas, enjoy the landscapes, savour the food, and let the language add a little extra warmth to your adventure.
