Namo Nepal

Essential Money & Currency Guide for Nepal Visitors

Navigating money matters in Nepal is an important part of a seamless travel experience. Nepal’s official currency, the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), offers familiar denominations alongside unique customs around cash and card usage. This guide helps you understand currency exchange, ATM accessibility, payment methods, and practical money tips for travel.

Stacks of Nepalese banknotes and coins with an ATM machine in the background.

Why Understanding Nepalese Currency Enhances Your Trip

Convenience, Safety, and Savings

  • Prepare ahead to avoid currency confusion and unfavorable exchanges.
  • Use Nepal’s widely accepted cash and increasingly available card payments.
  • Learn how ATMs function, their limits, and where to find them.
  • Maximize your budget by knowing fees, denominations, and money handling tips.

1.6

NPR is pegged to 1 INR

1 to 1000

Banknotes in NPR

1, 2, 5, 10

Common NPR coins

22

ATMs per 100,000 adults

What Is Nepalese Rupee (NPR)?

History, Denominations & Exchange

The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) has been Nepal's official currency since 1932, issued by Nepal Rastra Bank. It uses symbols like रु or Rs and divides into 100 paisa, though paisa coins are rarely used today. Banknotes come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000 rupee denominations, with distinct colors and sizes to aid recognition.

The NPR exchange rate is tightly pegged to the Indian rupee, offering stability to trade and tourism. Travelers should watch for official versus private exchange rates, and avoid black market conversions. In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepalese Rupees are widely accepted, but cash remains king in remote areas.

Nepalese Rupee banknotes laid out in ascending order. Tourists exchanging currency at a Kathmandu exchange counter.

Using Cash and Cards in Nepal

Traveler counting NPR notes in a market.

Cash Usage

Cash is the primary means of payment in most parts of Nepal, especially outside the big cities. Carry small denomination notes for markets, transport, and tips.

Tourist withdrawing cash from an ATM machine in a city.

ATMs and Card Payments

ATMs are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and some larger towns. They accept Visa, Mastercard, and Amex. However, rural areas may lack ATM access, so plan accordingly.

Payment terminal showing a card being used in a Kathmandu restaurant.

Credit & Debit Cards

Cards are accepted at upscale hotels, restaurants, and some shops—with additional transaction fees of 4-10%. They’re rare and often not accepted in rural shops or transport.

Currency Exchange & Money Handling Tips

  • Use official banks or licensed exchange counters for currency conversion.
  • Avoid exchanging large sums on the black market despite better rates.
  • Know Nepalese Rupee denominations to spot counterfeit notes.
  • Keep money safe and split cash in different places.
  • Check your home bank’s foreign ATM fees.
  • Use multiple cards if possible to avoid declined transactions.
🏦

Licensed Exchange

💰

ATM Fee Awareness

🔒

Safe Cash Handling

💵

Currency Recognition

💳

Card Security

Traveling with Money in Remote Areas

In remote trekking and rural areas, cash is essential. Some guesthouses accept cards, but never rely solely on plastic. Plan withdrawals in major towns before trekking, and carry sufficient cash in small bills for daily expenses and tips.

A vendor handling cash payment at a mountain lodge or remote tea house.

Understanding Nepal’s ATM Network and Limits

How and Where to Access Cash

ATM Availability

ATM density is growing, mainly in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and regional hubs. Always withdraw cash upon arrival.

Withdrawal Limits & Fees

Limits are usually NPR 10,000 to NPR 35,000 per transaction, with fees from NPR 400 to NPR 500 per withdrawal.

Reliability Tips

ATM downtime and cash shortages are common. Use ATMs in bank branches or dedicated ATM lounges for better reliability.

Over-the-Counter Cash

Banks support over-the-counter withdrawals with international cards, but this requires identification and patience.

Manage Your Money Smartly During Your Trip to Nepal

With knowledge of Nepal’s currency, ATM access, and payment methods, you can travel confidently and enjoy your time without money worries.

Quick Nepal Money Guide

Here’s what to remember:

  • Nepalese rupee (NPR) is Nepal’s official currency
  • Carry cash especially for rural travel
  • ATMs available mostly in major cities
  • Card fees can add 4-10% to purchases
  • Avoid black market currency exchange
  • Use multiple cards for backup

Money, Currency & ATMs in Nepal – FAQs

All you need to know about managing money safely and easily in Nepal.

What currency do I need in Nepal?
You need the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Indian Rupees are accepted in some border areas, but it's best to use NPR everywhere else.
Can I get Nepalese rupees on arrival?
Yes, you can exchange major currencies (USD, EUR, INR) at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) or use the ATMs available there.
Do Nepal ATMs accept international cards?
Yes, most ATMs in cities accept cards with the Visa, Mastercard, or American Express logo. Look for the logos displayed on the machine.
Where can I exchange money safely?
Use official banks or authorized money exchange centers in tourist hubs like Thamel, Kathmandu, or Lakeside, Pokhara. Always get a receipt.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Only in upscale hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in cities. Expect a surcharge of 4% to 10% on card transactions. Always have cash as a backup.
What about ATM fees and withdrawal limits?
The local fee is typically NPR 400-500 per transaction. Limits are generally NPR 10,000 to NPR 35,000 per transaction, depending on the bank.
Is it safe to carry cash in Nepal?
Nepal is generally safe, but common sense applies. Carry only the cash you need and split the rest between different secure places.
Can I use foreign currency for payment?
Generally, no. Large tourist hotels might accept USD, but most places require NPR. It is illegal to pay in foreign currency for local services.
Where are the best ATM locations?
Look for ATMs inside major national or international bank branches (e.g., Himalayan Bank, Standard Chartered) for the best reliability.
What denominations are common in Nepal?
The most common notes are NPR 100, 50, 20, and 10. Always try to have plenty of small bills for markets and taxi fares.
Should I carry multiple cards?
Absolutely. ATMs can decline transactions unpredictably. Having one Visa and one Mastercard (or backup debit cards) is strongly advised.
Are there tipping customs?
Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated, especially for trekking guides, porters, and in tourist restaurants. Tip discreetly in cash.

Prepare Your Money Matters for Nepal Travel Today

Equip yourself with currency knowledge and withdrawal tips to keep your Nepal journey smooth and stress-free.

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