The best way to explore a country is by getting to know its people, culture, language, and food of course. If you are traveling to Pakistan, get yourself acquainted with the common words of the local language, Urdu.
With knowing the 25 most common basics words in Urdu, you can have the ultimate experience mingling with Pakistani people, enjoy the food more, go shopping, and visit all the best places in beautiful Pakistan.
Urdu is the language of the Pakistani
Before I get carried away talking about the rich culture of Pakistan, let's delve into what connects us to other cultures and people. Language. You only need to know the basic words of Urdu before visiting Pakistan. It is not only a gesture of respect but also a great way to warm up to the local community and see the world through their eyes.
In case you are traveling to Pakistan, it will be a good idea to learn some basic phrases and words of Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, to help you navigate the country without a hitch.
Also check out: Pakistan for first-timers | 10+ things you need to know before you go!
Greetings and small talk
No matter how much we hate small talk, we cannot escape it. That is how every conversation starts!! It can get awkward real fast if you are not familiar with the local language, you will have to resort to sign language to get your point across. (Annoying!) You can avoid that by learning basic words of Urdu before visiting Pakistan.
Assalamoalaikum/ Salam = Hello
Aap kaise ho = How are you?
Main Theek hoon = I am fine
Apka Naam Kiya hai = What is your name?
Mera Naam —– hai = My name is —–
Kiya Apko English ati hai? = Do you speak English?
Ap say mil kar khushi hui = Nice to meet you
Apna khayal rakhna = Take care
Khuda Hafiz = Goodbye
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Basic words of Urdu to use when eating out or shopping in Pakistan
The best thing about traveling to Pakistan is experiencing the rich, diverse culture. Bazaars adorned with colorful materials and food streets filled with scrumptious spicy Pakistani cuisine, you don’t want to miss any of it. It will be helpful to buy things if you know common phrases and basic words of Urdu used while shopping or eating in Pakistan.
Yeh kitne ka hai = How much does this cost?
Bohat acha hai = It is good
Acha nahi hai = It is not good
Lazeez = Delicious
Khoobsurat = Beautiful
Wahan (place) jana hai = I have to go (place) there
Basic common Urdu words
Aap = You
Main = I
Kahan = Where?
Subah Bakhair = Good Morning
Shab Bakhair = Good Night
Zabardast = Awesome
Jee Haan = Yes
Jee nahi = No
Shukriya = Thank you
Mazrat = Sorry
So, now you know the very basics. Have fun in Pakistan my friends!
And before you go, please don´t underestimate how important it is to have the right travel insurance. We recommend World Nomads or Safety Wings! There you go, this basic language guide will help you get the most out of your tourism experience when visiting Pakistan. Khuda Hafiz!!
