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?
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
