Speak like a Local: Easy Urdu Phrases for Your Pakistan Trip
Language is the bridge that connects travelers to cultures, and in Pakistan, a few words of Urdu can go a long way. Whether you’re exploring the bustling bazaars of Lahore or hiking the serene valleys of Hunza, knowing a handful of basic Urdu phrases can enrich your travel experience and help you build authentic connections with locals.
While English is understood in major cities, many rural areas rely on Urdu or regional languages. And with patchy internet and power outages in some tourist areas, relying on apps like Google Translate may not always be feasible.
This guide brings you essential Urdu phrases—categorized into greetings, essentials, food & shopping, and cultural icebreakers—to help you travel smart, connect deeply, and stay safe in Pakistan.
1. Greetings & Introductions
- Assalaam-u-Alaikum / Salam – Peace be upon you / Hello.
The most common and respectful way to greet anyone in Pakistan. - Aapka naam kya hai? – What is your name?
- Mera naam ___ hai. – My name is ___.
- Aap kaise ho? – How are you? (Male)
Aap kaisi ho? (Female) - Main bilkul theek hoon. – I am absolutely fine.
- Main ___ se aaya/aayi hoon. – I am from ___.
(Use aayi if you’re female, aaya if male.)
2. Essentials for Travel
- Shukriya – Thank you.
Universally understood and appreciated. - Haan / Nahin – Yes / No.
- Theek hai – Okay.
A versatile response used often in daily conversations. - Mujhe ___ jana hai. – I want to go to ___.
Example: Mujhe airport jana hai. (I want to go to the airport.) - Aapko English aati hai? – Do you speak English?
- Maaf kijiye – Excuse me / Pardon me
- Khuda Hafiz – Goodbye
- Shab Bakhair – Good night
Used during evening goodbyes. - Ap se mil kar khushi hui. – Nice to meet you.
- Meri madad karein. – Help me.
Useful in emergency situations.
3. Eating & Shopping
- Yeh kitne ka hai? – How much is this?
Essential for local shopping where prices aren’t always marked. - Bohat mazedaar! – Very tasty!
A great compliment after enjoying food at someone’s home or a restaurant. - Ek karak chai hojaaye. – Let’s have a strong tea.
An instant icebreaker—Pakistanis love their chai!
4. Emergency and Help
- Mujhay madad ki zaroorat hai. – I need help.
- Mujhay doctor ki zaroorat hai. – I need a doctor.
- Mujhe raasta nahi mil raha. – I am lost.
- Mujhay Urdu nahi aati. – I don’t know Urdu.
- Mera passport gum gaya hai. – I have lost my passport.
5. Impressing the Locals
- Zabardast! – Excellent!
- Aap se mil kar khushi hui. – Pleased to meet you.
Learning these phrases not only helps you navigate more easily but also earns you genuine warmth from the locals. Whether you’re bartering in the bazaars, asking for directions in a village, or simply saying thanks after a meal, speaking Urdu—no matter how imperfectly—creates memorable interactions.
Pakistan is a land of breathtaking landscapes and incredibly warm people. With over 70 languages spoken, Urdu remains the unifying tongue across regions. From the mountains of Skardu to the streets of Karachi, these simple phrases can turn a good trip into a great one!
Stay tuned with Hello Salam PK for more!
