The short answer
The most famous trek word is "bistarai bistarai" (slowly, slowly), which is exactly the right pace. Other words: himal (snow mountain), hiu (snow), baato (path), pul (bridge), khola (river), tal (lake), pani (water) and ramro (good or beautiful). To ask the way, say "... jane baato kun ho?" (which way to ...?).
Guides and lodge owners enjoy hearing a few words. Namaste and dhanyabad are a good start. Spellings are simple transliterations; sounds vary by region and speaker.
Key facts
- Slowly
- Bistarai bistarai
- Mountain
- Himal
- Path / bridge / river
- Baato / pul / khola
- Beautiful
- Ramro
How it works
- Slowly, slowlyBistarai bistarai · Dheere dheere
- MountainHimal · Pahad / Parvat
- PathBaato · Raasta
- BridgePul · Pul
- RiverKhola · Nadi
- LakeTal · Taal / Jheel
- BeautifulRamro · Sundar / Accha
Insider tip
Say "bistarai" to remind yourself to slow down.
Avoid this
Do not rush; the phrase is also a medical tip at altitude.
Related questions
What does "bistarai" mean?
Slowly.
What is a khola?
A river or stream.
Quick trip match
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- What Decides the Cost of a Nepal TripThe cost drivers and how to compare quotes.
- Couples, Cabs, Ropeways and ExtrasCouples, cabs, ropeway, solo travel and more.
- Nepal Names and SpellingsWhich spellings mean the same place.
- Nepal in HinglishNepal questions in Hinglish with Hindi answers.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
