So, you’ve navigated the traffic, survived your first spicy meal and accepted that cows have right of way. You are feeling confident… until someone speaks to you in Hindi at full speed. Deep breath. While English is widely spoken across India, using a few local phrases will earn you smiles, help you connect and occasionally turn confusion into cooperation.
Hindi might sound fast and musical at first, but it is wonderfully expressive and very forgiving when spoken by travellers. Here are 10 useful phrases to help you get around, be polite and feel just a little bit impressive while travelling in India.
1. Namaste
👋 Hello
Pronunciation: nuh-mus-tay
A respectful greeting that works for hello, goodbye and most social situations.
💡 Tip: Hands together and a small nod make this extra authentic.
2. Dhanyavaad
🙏 Thank you
Pronunciation: dun-yuh-vaad
Polite, appreciated and guaranteed to soften interactions.
💡 Tip: Use it generously. Gratitude goes a long way here.
3. Haan / Nahin
👍 Yes / No
Pronunciation: haan (rhymes with barn) / nuh-heen
Essential for quick answers, decisions and negotiations.
💡 Tip: A head wobble can mean yes, maybe or I hear you. Context is everything.
4. Kripya
🤝 Please
Pronunciation: krip-yah
Simple, polite and useful when asking for help or directions.
💡 Tip: Even saying this alone sounds respectful.
5. Aap kaise ho?
🗣️ How are you?
Pronunciation: aap KAI-say ho
Friendly and warm, perfect for small talk.
💡 Tip: Use “ho” for men and “hain” if you want to be extra polite.
6. Mujhe samajh nahi aaya
🤔 I do not understand
Pronunciation: moo-jhay suh-muj nuh-hee aa-ya
Perfect for rapid conversations, instructions or menus with no pictures.
💡 Tip: Smile while saying it and someone will usually step in to help.
7. Yeh kitne ka hai?
💰 How much is this?
Pronunciation: yeh KIT-nay ka hai
Your go-to phrase for markets and souvenir shopping.
💡 Tip: Point at the item confidently while asking.
8. Bahut mehenga hai
💸 It is too expensive
Pronunciation: buh-hoot may-hen-ga hai
A classic bargaining phrase and surprisingly effective.
💡 Tip: Say it lightly, not dramatically. Bargaining is a friendly sport.
9. Toilet kahan hai?
🚻 Where is the toilet?
Pronunciation: TOY-let kuh-haan hai
Urgent, universal and completely understood.
💡 Tip: Asking early is better than asking in a panic.
10. Theek hai
😄 Okay / That is fine
Pronunciation: theek hai
Incredibly useful and works in almost any situation.
💡 Tip: This phrase solves more problems than you would expect.
✨ Final Language Thoughts
You do not need perfect pronunciation to communicate in India. Effort, politeness and a sense of humour matter far more than flawless delivery. Locals genuinely appreciate travellers who try, even if the accent is questionable.
Learn a few of these phrases, say them with confidence and enjoy the reactions. In India, a little language goes a very long way.
