Ever wanted to immerse yourself in Nepali music but didn't know where to start? Thought that Nepali music was all just lok geet (folk songs)? Check out these contemporary hits whether you want to upgrade your music library, practice the language, or give your ears a taste of the culture.

1. Khai (Bartika Eam Rai)

Titled "Where," haunting lyrics paired with beautiful vocals make this song mesmerizing to listen to. In her lyrics, Bartika Eam Rai urges the listener to find true happiness within themselves and make life meaningful again. Her recent EP, Bimbaakash, is on Spotify and is full of similarly captivating tracks.

2. Asaar (Bipul Chettri)

Bipul Chettri is from West Bengal, India, and in this song he sings a picture of the Eastern Himalayan town of Kalimpong. His lyrics describe the rain during the month of asaar (June/July) in his hometown as he reflects on life and how quickly it passes. Acoustic guitar is joined by a chorus of other sounds to create a song you can easily get lost in.

3. Walking Firiri (Gorkhali Takma)

Get up, smile and toss your worries out the window as you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara with this song's heartwarming lyrics and video. Gorkhali Takma has composed a unique blend of folk and modern influences, heard through both modern instruments and classic ones like flute and sarangi. The song also borrows melodies and half of its title from the classic Nepali folk song "Resham Firiri," which is as carefree as this modern counterpart.

4. Khaali (Astha Tamang-Maskey)

The title of this eerie song means "Empty", perfect for a poetic composition in which Astha Tamang-Maskey chronicles a battle with her inner demons. A fluid piano melody and elegant vocals characterize this haunting tune.

5. Hazar Sapana (1974 AD)

"Hazar Sapana" is the title track from the latest album of the popular band 1974 AD. Beautifully composed, the song's lyrics are also noteworthy. They verge on political, hinting at the perilous journey and conditions that Nepali migrant workers undergo in foreign countries. The song also perfectly captures the heartache of being away from home, as well as the worry of having "a thousand dreams" left to realize in life.

6. Kati Baschau Maiti Kai (Diwas Gurung)

Folk roots are not forgotten in modern Nepali music. Here, Diwas Gurung crafts a beautiful cover of a popular classic folk song. He brings into the mix indie flavor and lullaby-worthy vocals which make this pining love song prime for listening on repeat.

So, grab your headphones and lose yourself in the beauty of Nepali music. Who knows where these six songs will take you?