Nepali Chiya Culture
How to Order Tea in Nepali: Simple Phrases for Visitors
Chiya Table · 9 Oct 2026
Ordering tea is one of the easiest ways to practise a little Nepali, and people love it when visitors try. Here are the words and phrases you'll actually use.
The basics
| Nepali | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Chiya | Tea |
| Dudh chiya | Milk tea |
| Kalo chiya | Black tea |
| Masala chiya | Spiced milk tea |
| Kagati chiya | Lemon tea (kagati = lemon) |
| Cutting | Half a glass |
| Kafi | Coffee |
Useful phrases
- "Ek cup chiya dinus." One cup of tea, please.
- "Dui wota dudh chiya." Two milk teas.
- "Chini kam." Less sugar.
- "Chini nahalnus." No sugar, please.
- "Ekdam tato." Very hot.
- "Arko ek." One more.
- "Kati bhayo?" How much is it?
- "Dhanyabad!" Thank you!
Little customs to know
- Tea is offered as a welcome. If someone offers you chiya, accepting is polite.
- Sweet is normal. Nepali chiya is usually sweet by default. Ask for chini kam if you prefer less.
- Small glasses are common. Don't be surprised if tea comes in a glass rather than a mug.
- Sharing time matters. Tea is about the conversation, so there's no need to rush.
Practise with us
You're welcome to order in English or Nepali at Chiya Table. Our menu lists everything in English with prices, from cutting tea (Rs. 30) to tandoori tea (Rs. 60). Find us on Kotdevi Marg using our visit page.