Planning a trip to Pakistan? This guide covers 30 essential Urdu travel phrases every visitor should know. From greetings and dining to shopping and directions, these easy Urdu expressions will help you communicate confidently, connect with locals, and experience Pakistan’s culture more authentically. Perfect for travelers exploring Lahore, Karachi, Hunza, and beyond—learn basic Urdu to travel Pakistan like a local.
30 Common & Useful Urdu Phrases for Travelers
Here are 30 essential Urdu phrases every traveler should know, organized by category, complete with pronunciation, meanings, and real-world travel uses. For those planning an unforgettable journey, check out our exciting Pakistan tours to experience these phrases in action while exploring the country with expert guides.
Greetings & Polite Expressions
1. Peace be upon you (Assalam-o-Alaikum)
The universal Pakistani greeting! You’ll hear it everywhere, markets, hotels, buses, and restaurants. Use this instead of “Hello” when meeting anyone; it instantly earns respect and warmth.
“Assalam-o-Alaikum” is more than just a greeting, it’s a gesture of peace, warmth, and respect that defines Pakistani hospitality. You’ll hear it everywhere, from shopkeepers in bustling Lahore bazaars to families welcoming you in the northern valleys with a deeper cultural touch that conveys goodwill and sincerity. When you greet someone with Assalam-o-Alaikum, you’re not only being polite, you’re immediately connecting on a cultural and emotional level. Pakistanis take pride in their hospitality, and this simple phrase often sparks friendly conversations, smiles, or even invitations for tea (chai).
2. And peace be upon you too (Wa Alaikum Assalam)
The polite reply to “Assalam-o-Alaikum.” You’ll need this when someone greets you first its part of basic courtesy.
“Wa Alaikum Assalam” is the polite and heartfelt response to “Assalam-o-Alaikum.” It’s a simple phrase, but it carries a sense of connection and respect that immediately makes locals appreciate you. When someone greets you first, whether it’s a shopkeeper, hotel staff, or a fellow passenger, replying with Wa Alaikum Assalam shows that you value their warmth and are returning their goodwill.
In Pakistani culture, greetings are more than words, they’re an exchange of kindness and peace. Responding properly is a small act that says, “I see you, I respect you, and I wish you well.” You’ll often notice people smiling wider when a foreign traveler replies with this phrase, it’s a beautiful moment of cultural harmony.
3. Thank you (Shukriya)
Use this to express gratitude after receiving help, service, or hospitality. A simple “Shukriya” goes a long way in Pakistan.
“Shukriya” is one of those magical words that every traveler should have ready at all times in Pakistan. It’s short, sweet, and incredibly powerful. Whether a shopkeeper helps you find the right souvenir, a stranger offers directions, or a family invites you in for a cup of steaming chai, a simple Shukriya instantly conveys gratitude and respect.
In Pakistani culture, politeness and hospitality are deeply rooted in everyday life. Locals go out of their way to help visitors, often refusing payment or offering small gestures of kindness, like sharing food or giving travel advice. Saying Shukriya with a genuine smile shows that you appreciate not just their help, but also their spirit of generosity.
4. Please / Kindness (Meherbani)
A gentle word to make your requests more polite, like “Please give me water” (Paani dijiye, meherbani se).
“Meherbani” is a word that beautifully captures the spirit of politeness and respect in Pakistani culture. It literally means kindness and that’s exactly what you’ll receive when you travel across Pakistan! Using Meherbani while making requests shows humility, courtesy, and genuine appreciation values that locals deeply respect.
Imagine you’re at a roadside dhaba (tea stall) in Hunza or a busy bazaar in Lahore. You might say, “Paani dijiye, meherbani se” (Please give me water, kindly), or “Zara madad kijiye, meherbani” (Please help me, kindly). The moment you add Meherbani, people soften, they’ll smile, respond warmly, and often go out of their way to assist you.
5. Goodbye / May God protect you (Khuda Hafiz)
The standard way to say farewell in Pakistan. Use it when leaving a shop, hotel, or ending a friendly chat.
When exploring Pakistan, you’ll often hear locals say “Khuda Hafiz” as you leave, a phrase that literally means “May God be your protector.” It’s the most common and heartfelt Urdu way to say goodbye and perfectly captures the warmth and spirituality of Pakistani culture.
In daily life, Pakistanis use Khuda Hafiz not only when parting from friends and family but also when saying goodbye to guests, customers, or travelers. Whether you’re leaving a hotel in Islamabad, finishing a meal at a local restaurant in Lahore, or wrapping up a shopping trip in Karachi’s bazaars, saying Khuda Hafiz is a polite and respectful way to close any interaction.
6. How are you? (Aap Kaise Hain?)
Perfect for casual interactions or when meeting someone new. Shows genuine friendliness and interest.
If you are traveling to Pakistan, learning to say Assalam-o-Alaikum is one of the first and most important steps to connect with locals. This greeting, which means Peace be upon you, is used everywhere from the busy streets of Lahore, the colorful markets of Karachi, to the serene valleys of Hunza. Using this phrase shows respect, politeness, and cultural awareness, and instantly makes locals feel welcome.
For travelers, Assalam-o-Alaikum is more than just a hello. It is a bridge to experiencing true Pakistani hospitality. Say it to shopkeepers while exploring vibrant bazaars, to taxi drivers, or to hotel staff, and you will often receive smiles, friendly conversations, or even invitations to enjoy traditional chai. Locals deeply appreciate travelers who make the effort to use basic Urdu phrases, and this simple greeting can turn a routine interaction into a memorable cultural exchange.
2. Asking for Directions
7. Where is this place? (Yeh jagah kahan hai?)
Ideal when you’re navigating maps or asking locals for a location.
When exploring Pakistan, from the historic streets of Lahore to the scenic landscapes of Hunza or the bustling neighborhoods of Karachi, knowing how to ask “Yeh jagah kahan hai?” is essential. This phrase means where is this place? And is perfect for travelers who need directions, whether you are trying to find a famous landmark, a hidden café, or your hotel.
Using Yeh jagah kahan hai? Shows locals that you are polite and making an effort to speak their language. Pakistanis are famously friendly and helpful, and asking this question in Urdu often leads to detailed directions, tips, or even someone offering to guide you personally. It can turn a simple query into an opportunity to interact with locals and discover hidden gems off the tourist trail.
For more guidance on exploring Pakistan and planning your trips efficiently, check out our comprehensive Pakistan tourism guide.
8. Go straight (Seedha jaayein)
Common direction locals may tell you; also good to understand when someone guides you.
When exploring Pakistan, whether you are walking through the bustling streets of Karachi, navigating the winding lanes of Lahore’s old city, or trekking the scenic valleys of Hunza, Seedha jaayein is one of the most useful phrases you can know. It means Go straight and is commonly used by locals when giving directions.
For travelers, understanding Seedha jaayein makes getting around easier and helps you feel more confident navigating unfamiliar streets. Imagine asking for directions at a busy market in Lahore and being told Seedha jaayein, phir dayen murain (Go straight, then turn right). Knowing these words helps you follow instructions quickly, avoid getting lost, and explore like a local.
9. Right / Left (Dayen / Bayen)
Crucial for following navigation instructions, especially when walking or driving.
When traveling through Pakistan, knowing how to say Dayen (Right) and Bayen (Left) can make navigating cities and towns much easier. Whether you are exploring the colorful streets of Lahore, hopping into a rickshaw in Karachi, or trekking in the northern valleys, locals often give directions using these simple words.
For travelers, understanding Dayen and Bayen is crucial for following instructions while walking, driving, or using public transport. Combine these words with Seedha jaayein (Go straight) and you’ll be able to navigate like a local, avoiding confusion and enjoying a smoother journey.
10. How far is it? (Kitna door hai?)
Use this when estimating distances to a destination, like a landmark, hotel, or bus stop.
When exploring Pakistan, from the historic sites of Lahore to the breathtaking landscapes of Skardu or the busy streets of Karachi, knowing how to ask Kitna door hai? Can be a lifesaver. This phrase means How far is it? And is perfect for travelers trying to estimate distances to landmarks, hotels, bus stops, or local attractions.
Using Kitna door hai? not only helps you plan your journey efficiently but also signals to locals that you are making an effort to communicate in Urdu. Pakistanis are known for their friendliness, and asking this simple question often leads to detailed advice about the fastest route, traffic conditions, or even hidden scenic spots along the way.
11. I’m lost (Main kho gaya hoon)
A must-know for solo travelers! Say this kindly if you need help finding your way.
Traveling in Pakistan can lead you to incredible adventures, from exploring narrow alleys in Lahore to wandering through the markets of Karachi or trekking the scenic trails of Hunza. But sometimes, getting a little lost is part of the journey. That’s when Main kho gaya hoon becomes one of the most important phrases in your travel toolkit. It means I’m lost and is essential for solo travelers or anyone navigating unfamiliar areas.
Using Main kho gaya hoon politely can instantly alert locals that you need help, and Pakistanis are famously friendly and eager to assist. You might find someone guiding you step by step to your destination, offering a ride, or even giving insider tips about shortcuts and local attractions. This phrase not only keeps you safe but can also lead to memorable interactions and stories to share.
3. Shopping & Dining Essentials
12. How much does this cost? (Yeh kitnay ka hai?)
You’ll need this everywhere from local bazaars to souvenir shops.
If you’re shopping in Pakistan, knowing how to ask Yeh kitnay ka hai? is essential. This phrase means How much does this cost? and is your go-to line in bustling bazaars, street markets, souvenir shops, or even at roadside food stalls. Whether you’re picking up handcrafted pottery in Lahore, colorful textiles in Karachi, or local delicacies in Islamabad, this phrase is your ticket to smooth and friendly transactions.
Using Yeh kitnay ka hai? shows respect for local customs and opens the door for bargaining, which is a fun and traditional part of shopping in Pakistan. Locals appreciate travelers who make an effort to speak Urdu, and a polite question often results in fair pricing, smiles, and even recommendations for other must-visit shops.
13. Can you lower the price a little? (Thoda kam karein)
Bargaining is common in Pakistan; this polite phrase helps you negotiate fairly.
Bargaining is an art and a fun part of shopping in Pakistan, whether you’re in Lahore’s vibrant markets, Karachi’s busy bazaars, or Peshawar’s traditional shopping streets. Thoda kam karein means Can you lower the price a little? and is the polite way to negotiate without offending the shopkeeper.
For travelers, using Thoda kam karein not only helps you get fair prices but also creates a friendly interaction with locals. Shopkeepers often enjoy chatting with tourists who make the effort to speak Urdu, and polite bargaining can lead to extra perks, such as small souvenirs, free samples, or helpful tips about local attractions.
14. I like this (Mujhe yeh pasand hai)
Perfect for showing appreciation when shopping or trying local products.
When exploring Pakistan’s colorful markets, trying local crafts, or tasting delicious street food, Mujhe yeh pasand hai is a simple but powerful phrase. It means I like this and is perfect for showing appreciation to shopkeepers, artisans, or restaurant staff. Expressing your liking in Urdu creates instant goodwill and often sparks friendly conversations, tips about other items to try, or even small gestures of hospitality.
For travelers, saying Mujhe yeh pasand hai is more than just politeness — it’s a way to connect with locals on a cultural level. Whether you’re admiring handwoven rugs in Lahore, tasting sweet treats in Karachi, or enjoying local handicrafts in Peshawar, this phrase can make your interactions more engaging and memorable.
15. The food is delicious (Khana bohat mazedar hai)
Compliment chefs, restaurant owners, or hosts with this phrase , Pakistanis love when visitors enjoy their food!
If you’re a foodie exploring Pakistan, this phrase is a must-know. Khana bohat mazedar hai means The food is delicious and is the perfect way to compliment chefs, restaurant staff, or hosts. From spicy biryanis in Karachi to street food delights in Lahore and traditional home-cooked meals in rural villages, expressing your appreciation in Urdu is always warmly received.
For travelers, using Khana bohat mazedar hai goes beyond politeness — it creates a connection. Pakistanis take immense pride in their cuisine, and hearing this phrase often sparks friendly conversations, recipe tips, or even invitations to try more local dishes. It’s also a fun way to immerse yourself in the local food culture while traveling.
16. Where i can get Water? (Paani kahan milay ga?)
Extremely useful, especially during hot days or long road trips.
Staying hydrated is essential while exploring Pakistan’s vibrant cities, mountainous regions, or desert areas. Paani kahan milay ga? means Where can I get water? and is one of the most practical phrases for travelers. Whether you’re trekking in Hunza, exploring Lahore’s historic streets, or navigating Karachi’s bustling markets, asking for water politely in Urdu ensures you stay refreshed and safe.
For travelers, using Paani kahan milay ga? is not only practical but also shows respect for local language and culture. Pakistanis are generally warm and helpful, and asking this simple question often leads to quick guidance to the nearest shop, restaurant, or even someone offering water directly.
17. Please give me the bill (Bill dijiye)
Essential phrase for restaurants and cafés when you’re ready to pay.
When dining out in Pakistan, knowing how to politely ask for the check is essential. Bill dijiye means Please give me the bill and is widely used in restaurants, cafés, and hotels. From enjoying traditional Pakistani dishes in Lahore to sipping chai in a Karachi café, this simple phrase ensures a smooth and respectful end to your meal.
For travelers, using Bill dijiye is more than just convenience, it reflects good manners and cultural awareness. Pakistanis value politeness, and asking for the bill in Urdu can even spark friendly interactions with staff, who may recommend local desserts or suggest hidden culinary gems for your next visit.
4. Traveling Around Pakistan
18. Where can I get the bus? (Bus kahan se milegi?)
Use when you’re looking for a bus stop or intercity terminal.
Navigating public transport in Pakistan can be an adventure, and knowing how to ask Bus kahan se milegi? (Where can I get the bus?) is essential for every traveler. Whether you’re heading to the scenic valleys of Hunza, exploring Lahore’s historic sites, or catching an intercity bus from Karachi, this phrase helps you find bus stops or terminals quickly and efficiently.
For travelers, using Bus kahan se milegi? demonstrates confidence and respect for local language, making it easier to receive accurate directions from locals. Pakistanis are generally friendly and helpful, and simply asking this phrase can lead to additional tips about the best bus routes, ticket prices, or even alternative transport options.
19. Taxi bulayenge? (Can you call a taxi?)
Great for asking hotel staff, locals, or shopkeepers to help you get a ride.
Getting around Pakistan’s cities is easier when you know how to ask for a taxi. Taxi bulayenge? means Can you call a taxi? and is a must-know phrase for travelers navigating busy streets, hotel areas, or marketplaces. Whether you’re in the bustling lanes of Karachi, the historic streets of Lahore, or the tourist hubs of Islamabad, this phrase ensures you get a ride quickly and politely.
For travelers, using Taxi bulayenge? not only makes your journey smoother but also helps you interact respectfully with locals. Hotel staff, shopkeepers, or even friendly passersby are usually happy to assist if you ask politely in Urdu. This small effort often leads to quicker service, better prices, and sometimes even useful travel tips from locals.
If you prefer more flexibility and convenience during your travels, consider renting a car. Check out our car rental options to explore Pakistan at your own pace while practicing these useful Urdu phrases.
20. How much is the fare? (Kitna kiraya hoga?)
Prevents confusion and ensures you agree on the fare before your ride starts.
When traveling around Pakistan by taxi, rickshaw, or local transport, knowing how to ask Kitna kiraya hoga? (How much is the fare?) is essential. This simple phrase helps avoid misunderstandings, ensures you agree on the price beforehand, and saves you from unexpected surprises during your ride. From busy streets of Karachi to the scenic routes of Murree, this phrase keeps your journey smooth and stress-free.
For travelers, using Kitna kiraya hoga? Demonstrates cultural awareness and respect for local practices. Pakistani drivers appreciate travelers who politely inquire about fares, and this often results in fair prices, friendly interactions, and even helpful tips about the quickest routes. It’s a small phrase that guarantees confidence and peace of mind while moving around.
21. Take me to the airport (Mujhe airport le chaliye)
Helpful for your final day when leaving for the airport by taxi or car.
When your adventure in Pakistan comes to an end, knowing how to say Mujhe airport le chaliye (Take me to the airport) is essential for a smooth departure. Whether you’re leaving Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, or any other city, this phrase ensures that taxi drivers, hotel staff, or ride services understand your destination clearly.
For travelers, using Mujhe airport le chaliye is more than just convenience — it shows confidence in communicating in Urdu, earning respect from locals. Pakistani drivers appreciate when visitors speak even a few local words, which can sometimes lead to faster service, safer rides, or even helpful tips about the best route to the airport.
5. Emergencies & Important Questions
22. Help me! (Madad kijiye!)
The most important emergency phrase shout or say this clearly if you’re in trouble or need assistance.
When traveling in Pakistan, safety is always a priority. Madad kijiye! (Help me!) is the most important phrase you can know in case of emergencies. Whether you are lost in a crowded market, face a medical issue, or need urgent assistance, shouting or saying this clearly will immediately alert locals nearby.
For travelers, knowing Madad kijiye! Gives confidence and peace of mind while exploring new cities or remote areas. Pakistanis are generally very helpful and responsive, and using this phrase can quickly get you the help you need, whether it’s calling authorities, guiding you to safety, or assisting with first aid.
23. Where is the doctor? (Doctor kahan hai?)
Useful if you or someone nearby needs medical help.
When exploring Pakistan, minor health issues can happen, and knowing how to ask Doctor kahan hai? (Where is the doctor?) is essential. Whether you need medical attention in a busy city like Lahore, a remote town in the north, or near tourist hotspots in Karachi, this phrase quickly guides you to professional help.
For travelers, using Doctor kahan hai? shows cultural awareness and ensures timely assistance during health emergencies. Locals are very responsive, and asking politely in Urdu often gets faster directions, recommendations for reliable clinics, or even advice on nearby pharmacies.
24. Where is the police station? (Police station kahan hai?)
Know this one in case of emergencies or if you lose documents.
When traveling in Pakistan, it’s always wise to know how to ask the Police station kahan hai? (Where is the police station?). Whether you encounter an emergency, lose important documents, or need to report a situation, this phrase ensures you can quickly locate help and support from local authorities.
For travelers, using the Police station kahan hai? is a simple yet powerful way to navigate unexpected situations safely. Pakistanis are generally helpful, and asking politely in Urdu can lead to clear directions, guidance on official procedures, or even assistance in filing reports efficiently.
25. I don’t understand (Mujhe samajh nahi aayi)
Use politely when someone speaks too fast or in deep Urdu.
When traveling in Pakistan, language differences can sometimes make communication tricky. Mujhe samajh nahi aayi (I don’t understand) is a polite and essential phrase to use if someone speaks too quickly, uses unfamiliar words, or if you need clarification. It’s a respectful way to pause the conversation without causing offense.
For travelers, using Mujhe samajh nahi aayi not only helps in everyday interactions but also shows locals that you are making an effort to communicate in Urdu. It opens the door for people to slow down, explain things more clearly, or even assist you in finding exactly what you need. This phrase is especially handy in markets, public transport, or when asking for directions.
26. Do you speak English? (Kya aap English bolte hain?)
A lifesaver phrase for tourists who need help communicating.
When exploring Pakistan, language barriers can sometimes make interactions challenging. Kya aap English bolte hain? (Do you speak English?) is a lifesaver phrase for travelers who need to communicate more clearly. It helps you connect quickly with locals who are comfortable in English, ensuring smooth guidance, faster service, or accurate directions.
For travelers, using Kya aap English bolte hain? shows respect and politeness, especially when paired with a smile. Pakistanis appreciate when visitors make the effort to ask in Urdu before switching to English. This phrase is particularly useful in hotels, airports, shops, or when seeking assistance in busy urban areas like Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad.
6. Making Friends & Small Talk
27. What’s your name? (Aap ka naam kya hai?)
Great for starting a friendly conversation with locals.
Traveling in Pakistan is not just about sightseeing; it’s also about connecting with people. Aap ka naam kya hai? (What’s your name?) is a friendly and polite way to start conversations with locals. Asking someone’s name immediately creates a warm connection and shows genuine interest in the people you meet.
For travelers, using Aap ka naam kya hai? can lead to engaging interactions, whether you’re chatting with a shopkeeper in a bustling market, a local guide in the mountains, or fellow travelers at a café. Pakistanis value respect and curiosity, and this simple phrase often sparks smiles, laughter, and even invitations to share a meal or tea.
28. I love Pakistan(Mujhe Pakistan bohat pasand hai )
Say this sincerely it always delights locals and makes instant friends.
Expressing admiration for Pakistan is one of the quickest ways to connect with locals. Mujhe Pakistan bohat pasand hai (I love Pakistan) is a simple yet powerful phrase that instantly wins hearts. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Lahore, trekking the stunning valleys of Hunza, or enjoying Karachi’s vibrant culture, saying this sincerely shows respect and appreciation for the country and its people.
For travelers, using Mujhe Pakistan bohat pasand hai can spark friendly conversations, invite hospitality, and sometimes even lead to unique experiences like joining a local tea gathering or receiving personal travel tips from locals. Pakistanis take pride in their country, and hearing a visitor express love for it can create memorable and authentic cultural exchanges.
29. Where are you from? (Aap kahan se hain?)
You’ll often be asked this and it’s polite to return the question.
When traveling in Pakistan, locals are often curious about visitors. Aap kahan se hain? (Where are you from?) is a common question you’ll hear in markets, restaurants, or even during casual encounters. Asking this politely in return creates friendly interactions and shows genuine interest in connecting.
For travelers, using Aap kahan se hain? not only helps you engage in small talk but also opens doors to cultural exchange. Pakistanis enjoy learning about other countries, and answering this question can lead to warm conversations, tips on local attractions, or even invitations to explore hidden gems off the beaten path.
30. Nice to meet you (Aap se mil kar khushi hui)
Perfect to end conversations warmly and respectfully.
Ending a conversation politely is just as important as starting one. Aapse mil kar khushi hui (Nice to meet you) is the perfect phrase to leave a positive impression on anyone you meet while traveling in Pakistan. Whether you’ve been guided through a local market, shared a meal, or received helpful directions, saying this shows respect, gratitude, and warmth.
For travelers, using Aap se mil kar khushi hui reinforces friendly connections and reflects cultural awareness. Pakistanis value courtesy, and this phrase often leads to smiles, waves, and even invitations to meet again. It’s a small gesture that can turn a simple encounter into a memorable experience.
If you want to explore more essential Urdu phrases for travelers, check out helpful guides like The Mad Hatters: Helpful Urdu Phrases to Know Before Your Next Trip to Pakistan and Pakistan Travel Blog: 20 Helpful Urdu Phrases for Travel in Pakistan. These resources provide additional tips to make your journey smoother, more fun, and culturally immersive.