10 Must-Know Phrases For Your First India Trip

OT Staff

Hello (नमस्ते - Namaste)

"Namaste" is a respectful greeting that means "hello." In India, people often join their palms together and bow slightly while saying "Namaste."

A girl wishes "Namaste" joining her palms together | Shutterstock

Thank You (धन्यवाद - Dhanyavaad)

"Dhanyavaad" expresses gratitude, serving as a polite way to appreciate someone's help or kindness. Use it when someone assists you, offers a service, or gives you something.

A lady expresses her gratitude | Shutterstock

Please (कृपया - Kripya)

"Kripya" translates to "please" and is used to make requests. For example, when asking for directions or assistance, add "kripya" before your request.

A girl gestures with her hands as she pleads for her case | Shutterstock

Yes (हाँ - Haan)

"Haan" is simply the Hindi word for "yes." You can use it to respond affirmatively to questions or confirmations.

A man gestures his thumbs up in a way to say 'Yes' | Shutterstock

No (नहीं - Nahin)

"Nahin" means "no." Use it to negate a statement, decline an offer, or refuse a request. It serves as a straightforward and polite way to express disagreement or unwillingness in various situations.

A woman gives a gesture symbolising a 'No' | Shutterstock

Excuse me (मुझे क्षमा करें - Mujhe kshama karen)

"Mujhe kshama karen" means "excuse me" and is used to get someone's attention politely. Use this phrase when you need to pass through a crowded area or want to ask a question.

A woman excusing herself as she raises her finger | Shutterstock

Where is…? (…कहाँ है? - …kahan hai?)

Use this phrase to ask for directions. For example, "Market kahan hai?" means "Where is the market?" This helps you politely inquire about locations and navigate unfamiliar areas.

A man asks a woman for the direction for a place | Shutterstock

How Much Does This cost? (यह कितने का है? - Yeh kitne ka hai?)

Use this phrase to ask about prices. For example, "Yeh kitne ka hai?" means "How much is this?" This is useful when shopping or bargaining to know the cost of items.

A lady asks for the price of a lotion bottle | Shutterstock

I Don’t Understand (मुझे समझ में नहीं आया - Mujhe samajh mein nahin aaya)

Use this phrase to express confusion or lack of comprehension. It's useful when someone speaks too fast or uses complex language, allowing you to seek clarification.

A man expresses confusion over a situation | Shutterstock

Can You Speak English? (क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोल सकते हैं? - Kya aap Angrezi bol sakte hain?)

Use this phrase to inquire if someone can communicate in English. It's useful when seeking assistance or directions from locals who may know English.

A tourist communicates with a man in Varanasi | Shutterstock

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