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Nepal Currency: Nepalese Rupees, Exchange Rates & Payment Tips for Travelers
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee, used for daily payments throughout the country. Whether you are paying for local meals, shopping for souvenirs, or booking accommodation, you will need Nepalese Rupees for most daily expenses.
Understanding Nepal currency before you travel can help you budget your trip, avoid payment problems, and exchange money more easily after arrival. This guide covers everything you need to know about Nepal money, from the Nepalese Rupee and exchange rates to payment methods and cash withdrawal.
What Currency Is Used in Nepal? Nepalese Rupee
What Is the Nepal Currency Exchange Rate?
How to Pay in Nepal: Cash, Cards & Other Payment Methods
Where to Exchange Money in Nepal?
Where to Withdraw Money in Nepal: Banks and ATMs
Useful Nepal Currency Tips Before Your Nepal Tour
What Currency Is Used in Nepal? Nepalese Rupee
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee, issued by Nepal Rastra Bank. Its currency code is NPR. The currency symbol for the Nepalese Rupee is रु in Nepali script. It is also commonly written as Rs in English. In shops, restaurants, and hotels, prices are usually displayed as Rs or NPR. Both refer to the Nepalese Rupee.
Although some tourist businesses may occasionally accept foreign currencies, Nepalese Rupees are the standard payment method throughout the country.
The Nepalese Rupee is available in both banknotes and coins. Common banknotes include Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500, and Rs 1,000. Coins are available in Rs 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, and Rs 10. They are mainly used for small everyday purchases.
For travelers, carrying some smaller Nepalese Rupee notes is useful for local markets, taxis, tips, and other daily expenses. Larger notes are mainly for hotels and larger purchases, while small notes are easier to use for everyday payments.
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
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What Is the Nepal Currency Exchange Rate?
When planning a trip to Nepal, many travelers want to know the exchange rate between the Nepalese Rupee and major foreign currencies, such as the US Dollar (USD), Chinese Yuan (CNY), Euro (EUR), British Pound (GBP), and Indian Rupee (INR). The following table shows the approximate exchange rates for some common foreign currencies.
| Currency | Approximate Exchange Rate |
|---|---|
| 1 USD | 154.1 NPR |
| 1 CNY | 22.7 NPR |
| 1 EUR | 175.7 NPR |
| 1 GBP | 206.2 NPR |
| 1 INR | 1.6 NPR |
The exchange rates shown above are based on the rates at the time this article was written and are for reference only. These rates can change daily due to currency market fluctuations. It is recommended to check the latest exchange rate before exchanging money.
You can check the latest Nepal currency exchange rate on reliable currency websites or through banks and licensed money exchange counters. The rate you receive may be slightly different from the market exchange rate because of service fees or exchange margins.
Comparing exchange providers can help you get a better rate, but convenience and security are often more important than small rate differences during your Nepal trip.
Exchange rates can change daily due to market fluctuations.How to Pay in Nepal: Cash, Cards & Other Payment Methods
Cash
Cash is the most widely used payment method in Nepal, especially in local markets, small shops, taxis, restaurants, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is highly recommended because many small businesses in remote areas may not accept electronic payments.
In addition, cash is especially useful for small daily expenses that may not be included in tour packages. If you join an organized Nepal tour, major costs such as hotels, transportation, and sightseeing may already be covered, so cash is mainly needed for personal expenses, tips, and shopping.
Credit cards
Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, high-end restaurants, souvenir shops, and businesses in tourist areas in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, credit cards may not be accepted in rural areas. Therefore, credit cards are best used as a backup payment option rather than your only payment method in Nepal.
Commonly accepted cards include Visa and Mastercard, although acceptance may vary by location. Some businesses may add a service fee for card payments. Your bank may also charge foreign transaction fees. It is best to check these fees before using your card.
Mobile Payments
Some mobile payment options are available in Nepal, especially in urban areas. Local payment apps such as eSewa, Khalti, and Fonepay are widely used by local users. Most local payment apps require a Nepali phone number or bank account, which can make them difficult for short-term visitors to use.
International payment services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal are generally not accepted for daily payments in Nepal. Some international payment systems, such as Alipay and UPI, may allow travelers from supported countries to pay local merchants through QR codes.
In summary, cash is the most reliable payment method throughout Nepal. While credit cards and digital payments are available in cities and larger businesses, you should still carry enough Nepalese Rupees for daily expenses, local purchases, and travel in remote areas.
Your payment needs may vary depending on your travel style and activities. Knowing your expected Nepal tour cost can help you prepare properly in advance.
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Where to Exchange Money in Nepal?
You can exchange major foreign currencies for Nepalese Rupees at several places in Nepal. Exchange rates may vary between providers. It is a good idea to compare rates before exchanging a large amount of money.
Nepal Banks
Major commercial banks such as Nabil Bank and Himalayan Bank offer reliable currency exchange services. These banks are generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Some banks may have shorter winter hours from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You may need to show your passport when exchanging foreign currency at banks.
International Airports
You can also exchange money at international airports after arrival in Nepal, such as Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and Pokhara International Airport in Pokhara. Airport exchange counters may operate outside normal business hours for travelers. However, they may offer less favorable exchange rates.
Most travelers only exchange a small amount at the airport for transportation and immediate expenses, then exchange more money at banks or licensed money exchange counters in the city.
Money Exchange Counters
Licensed and government-approved money exchange counters are widely available in tourist areas such as Thamel in Kathmandu. They offer competitive rates and fast service. You can usually find the day’s exchange rates displayed on a board at the front. Most counters open daily from around 8:00 or 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, although hours may vary by location.
For most travelers, licensed money exchange counters usually offer a better balance of convenience and exchange rates. For safety, always use official exchange services and avoid unofficial street money exchanges. Before leaving the counter, check that you have received the correct amount of Nepalese Rupees.
You can exchange money at international airports upon arrival in Nepal.Where to Withdraw Money in Nepal: Banks and ATMs
Nepal Bank Branches
You can withdraw Nepalese Rupees (NPR) directly from bank branches in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Some banks provide cash withdrawal services for international visitors with a valid passport and international bank card. This option is useful if you need to withdraw a larger amount of cash.
When withdrawing cash from a bank branch in Nepal, international travelers may need to pay service charges or currency conversion fees. Your card provider or home bank may also charge additional international transaction fees.
Nepal ATMs
ATMs are another convenient way to withdraw cash in Nepal. They are widely available in cities and popular tourist areas. Most accept international cards such as Visa and Mastercard.
Many ATMs have withdrawal limits of around NPR 10,000 to NPR 35,000 per transaction (approximately USD 75 to USD 265), depending on the bank and ATM provider. Some ATMs may charge a local withdrawal fee of around NPR 400 to NPR 500 per transaction (approximately USD 3 to USD 4). Fees and withdrawal limits may vary by bank and ATM provider. In addition, your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee or cash advance fee.
During holidays or peak travel seasons, some ATMs may temporarily run out of cash, so avoid waiting until the last minute to withdraw money.
ATM access becomes more limited in remote areas and trekking regions. If you are planning trekking in Nepal, it is recommended to withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees for daily expenses before leaving major towns.
You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Nepal.Useful Nepal Currency Tips Before Your Nepal Tour
Carrying a mix of small and large Nepalese Rupee notes can make your trip more convenient. Small notes are useful for taxis, local markets, street food, tips, and other everyday purchases. Larger notes are convenient for hotels and larger payments.
Avoid carrying all your cash in one place. Keeping some money separately can help if your wallet is lost or stolen. If your card is lost, damaged, or does not work, you will still have cash available for essential expenses. This is especially useful when planning adventurous things to do in Nepal, where payment options may be limited.
After exchanging money, always keep your exchange receipt until the end of your trip. Some exchange providers may need the receipt for future transactions. It can also help you check the exchanged amount if any issues arise later.
Check your banknotes before leaving a shop or exchange counter, as damaged notes may be difficult to use for future payments.
It's important to check your banknotes before leaving a shop or exchange counter.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nepal Currency
Q1: What currency is used in Nepal?
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). It is available in both banknotes and coins. Common banknotes range from Rs 5 to Rs 1,000. Cash is the main payment method in Nepal for daily transactions, including shopping, transportation, local restaurants, and entrance fees.
Q2: Can I use US dollars in Nepal?
No. US dollars are not commonly accepted for everyday payments in Nepal. Most shops, restaurants, and local businesses mainly accept Nepalese Rupees. It is best to exchange your US dollars for Nepalese Rupees after arriving in Nepal or before making local purchases.
Q3: Are credit cards accepted in Nepal?
Yes, credit cards are accepted at many hotels, larger restaurants, travel agencies, and some souvenir shops in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, cash is still the preferred payment method in many local businesses and during travel in remote areas. It is recommended to carry enough Nepalese Rupees during your trip.
Q4: Should I exchange money before arriving in Nepal?
No, you do not need to exchange a large amount of money before arriving in Nepal. Most travelers can easily exchange major foreign currencies after arriving at banks and licensed money exchange counters.
However, it is helpful to carry some Nepalese Rupees for transportation and other small purchases. Always use official exchange services and check the latest exchange rates before exchanging money.
Q5: How much cash should I carry in Nepal?
The amount of cash you need depends on your travel style and itinerary. For most travelers, NPR 2,000 to 5,000 is usually enough for one day of meals, local transportation, entrance fees, and small purchases in cities.
If you plan to visit remote mountain areas or go trekking, carry more cash based on your itinerary. ATMs and card payment options may be limited in these areas. To avoid carrying too much cash, withdraw or exchange money when needed during your trip.
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Conclusion
The Nepalese Rupee is the official currency of Nepal and remains the primary currency used for daily transactions throughout the country. While credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger businesses, cash is still the most practical payment method for local shops, markets, taxis, and travel in remote areas.
If you have any questions about Nepal currency, exchanging money, or planning your Nepal trip, feel free to contact us. Our travel experts are always happy to offer practical advice and help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
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