Kathmandu - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
If you plan to stay in tourist and expat areas, you really don't need any. If you want to go off the beaten path, it's good to have at least some basic Nepali (and you really should get out there - it's a beautiful country!) There also seem to be three prices in Nepal: Nepali, expat and tourist. If you go into a store with some Nepali, you're likely to get the expat price (which is considerably cheaper than the tourist price). We've also found a little Nepali very helpful with cab drivers, who have varying levels of English proficiency. - Jun 2024
It would be nice to have some. I don't know any Nepali and I get by fine without it. Young Nepalis typically speak English, the older generation not so much. There is a lot of broken English. My frequent spots speak English very well. - Aug 2022
If you're in the Kathmandu valley, some very basic Nepali is helpful but not necessary. Outside of the valley some Nepali is helpful especially if you are trekking. - Aug 2019
I don't know any and get along just fine. Many locals don't speak English, but there's always someone who does and is willing to translate nearby. - Aug 2015
Very little but a little goes a long way and will make your experience so much better. - Jul 2014
I get by fine with only a Namaste and danya bat (thank you). People do appreciate the effort and try hard to understand if you learn some Nepali though. - May 2014
Well.....not much for us since we just function inside American circles. But I have found that to ask for directions and things like that, it is so much better to have a little knowledge of Nepali. - Apr 2014
Not too much, you can get by without it. - Dec 2013
In Kathmandu, it can feel like everyone speaks English. - Jun 2013
I know very little Nepali and get by just fine. - May 2013
It's not necessary to know any Nepali, but it can only increase your quality of life. - Jun 2011
Nearly zero. All Nepalis know some English. That said, it will be a lot more fun if you know Nepali, and they are friendlier still if you show them you are trying - Sep 2010
Not much. It is a tough language to learn. - Jan 2010
Of course anything you can learn is helpful and respectful. Many people in the city center speak English and most signs are in both English and Nepali. - May 2008
