What Language Do They Speak in Nepal?

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Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked country nestled in the Himalayas and bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring eight of the world's ten tallest mountains, including Mount Everest. The country boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and historical heritage, attracting visitors with its vibrant traditions and ancient temples.

Languages Spoken

Nepal is a linguistically diverse country, with over 120 languages spoken. Nepali is the official and most widely spoken language, spoken by 44.64% of the population. It serves as a lingua franca among the various ethnic groups. Other major languages include Maithili (11.67%), Bhojpuri (6%), Tharu (5.77%), and Tamang (5.11%). These languages reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal, influenced by its geographical position at the crossroads of South and East Asia. The linguistic diversity is a significant aspect of Nepalese culture, offering a blend of Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, and indigenous languages.

Different Languages Spoken in Nepal

Language data last updated 2024 est. from World Population Review - Nepal

LanguageUsage
Nepali44.64%
Maithili11.67%
Bhojpuri6%
Tharu5.77%
Tamang5.11%
Newar3.2%
Bajika3%
Magar2.98%
Doteli2.97%
Urdu2.61%
Awadhi1.89%
Rai1.25%
Limbu1.3%
Note: The total may add up to more than 100% as people may speak multiple languages

Useful Nepali Phrases

Learn these phrases if you're planning on traveling to Nepal

नमस्ते

Hello

A common greeting used across Nepal.

तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?

How are you?

This is a polite way to inquire about someone's well-being.

यो कति हो?

How much is this?

Useful when shopping or negotiating prices.

शौचालय कहाँ छ?

Where is the bathroom?

Very useful when you need to find facilities.

मलाई थाहा छैन

I don't understand

Can be used when you are having difficulty understanding what someone is saying.

Learn to speak Nepali

Interested in speaking Nepali in Nepal? Using Lingocat you can learn the basics of the language and start speaking in no time with the help of our AI Language Tutors.

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