# The Nepal Trekking Glossary: Words You'll Meet on the Trail

_Published 23 June 2026_

Trekking maps in Nepal are full of the same few words. Learn these and place names start to make sense: Thorong *La* is a pass, Khopra *Danda* a ridge, Imja *Tsho* a lake.

**Quick answer:** Danda = ridge, Khola = river, Bhanjyang and La = pass, Kharka = pasture, Phedi = foot of a pass, Tal/Kunda/Tsho = lake, Ri = peak, Gompa = monastery.

BhanjyangA pass or saddle on a ridge.BesiA riverside valley floor, as in Syabrubesi.BhattiA simple roadside inn.Bistaari"Slowly", the trekker's mantra.ChiyaSweet milky tea.ChortenA Buddhist shrine, similar to a stupa.DandaA ridge, as in Khopra Danda.DeuraliA pass, often with a small shrine.Didi / DaiOlder sister / older brother; polite forms of address.DokoA conical basket carried with a head strap.GompaA Buddhist monastery.HimalA snow mountain or range.Jam jam"Let's go!"KharkaA high summer pasture.KholaA river or stream.Kunda / Pokhari / TalLake or pond, as in Gosainkunda, Mai Pokhari, Rara Tal.LaA pass (Tibetan), as in Thorong La.LekhA high ridge or hill range.Mani wallA wall of carved prayer stones; pass it on your left.NamasteA greeting with palms together.NamloThe head strap porters use.PhediThe foot of a hill or pass, as in Thorong Phedi.RiA peak or hill (Tibetan), as in Gokyo Ri.TshoA lake (Tibetan), as in Imja Tsho.Learn a few phrases too: [Nepali phrases for travellers](/blog/nepali-phrases-for-travellers).

## Frequently asked questions
### What does "danda" mean?
A ridge.

### What does "khola" mean?
A river or stream.

### What is the difference between "bhanjyang" and "la"?
Both mean pass; "la" is Tibetan.

### What does "phedi" mean?
The foot of a hill or pass.


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