The short answer
Nepali is the main language and is written in Devanagari script, the same script used for Hindi. The two languages share many words and grammar patterns, so Hindi speakers often follow simple Nepali, and many Nepalis understand Hindi from films, television and trade, especially in Kathmandu and across the Terai. English is widely used in tourism, hotels, airlines and trekking, and most guides speak it well.
You do not need to speak Nepali to travel comfortably, but a few words earn smiles. Nepali has polite, ordinary and familiar forms of "you"; with visitors and elders always use the polite form "tapai". Many other languages exist too, from Newari in the Kathmandu Valley to Maithili in the east Terai, Tamang, Gurung and Sherpa in the hills and mountains.
Key facts
- National language
- Nepali (Devanagari)
- Hindi
- Widely understood
- English
- Tourism and hotels
- Others
- Newari, Maithili, Tamang, Gurung, Sherpa, Tharu
How it works
- Start with greetingsNamaste and dhanyabad.
- Add numbersFor shopping and taxis.
- Learn food wordsFor menus.
- Keep a phrase listOn your phone.
- Smile and askPeople help.
Insider tip
Use "tapai" (polite you) with everyone you do not know.
Avoid this
Do not assume that Hindi words always mean the same thing in Nepali.
Related questions
Can Hindi speakers manage in Nepal?
Yes in most tourist and Terai areas.
Is English enough?
In tourist places, yes.
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