The short answer
Use Nepalese rupees. ATMs work in cities and larger towns but are sparse in the mountains, so carry cash for treks. Cards are accepted at bigger hotels and restaurants, while small shops and lodges prefer cash.
Plan your money by region: use cards and ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara, withdraw enough cash before heading to remote areas, and keep small notes for tips, entrance fees and small purchases.
Key facts
- Currency
- Nepalese rupee
- ATMs
- Cities and trailheads
- Cards
- Hotels, restaurants
- Cash
- Mountains
How it works
- Exchange small amounts firstChange a little on arrival and top up in town as needed.
- Use ATMs in townUse machines inside banks or hotels and withdraw before heading to the hills.
- Keep enough cashCarry notes for treks, tips and entrance fees, in a few places.
- Keep receiptsKeep exchange receipts and note what you spend.
- Avoid street changersUse banks, hotels or authorised exchange counters only.
Cash, cards and ATMs
ATMs in cities usually accept international cards, but each machine may limit how much you can withdraw at a time, and your bank may charge fees. Withdraw in a few larger amounts rather than many small ones, and use machines inside banks or hotels. Inform your bank before you travel so your card is not blocked.
Card acceptance is good at larger hotels, travel agencies and some restaurants, often with a small surcharge. In villages and on trekking routes, cash is the rule, so withdraw before you leave town and keep notes in a few places in your luggage.
Exchanging and carrying money
Exchange money only at authorised counters, banks or hotels, and keep the receipts. Worn or torn notes are often refused, so check notes you receive and ask for cleaner ones. Small denominations are far more useful than large notes for day-to-day spending.
Indian rupees are widely understood and often accepted in tourist areas and near the border, but rules on larger Indian notes have changed in the past, so confirm the current position before relying on them. Keep your cash split between bags and never carry all of it in one place.
Insider tip
Carry small notes for tips and entrance fees.
Avoid this
Do not rely on cards in rural areas.
Related questions
Can I use Indian rupees?
They are widely understood and often accepted in tourist areas, but check current rules on larger notes before you travel.
Is tipping expected?
Tipping is appreciated, not required. Tip guides, drivers and staff according to service. See the tipping answer.
Do ATMs work on treks?
Rarely. Withdraw in a city before you go, and carry more cash than you expect to need.
Will my card work?
At major hotels and shops, usually. In villages, assume cash only.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- UNESCO Sites in NepalFour sites, seven valley monument zones and a sensible order.
- National Parks and ReservesWhich park for tigers, rhinos, birds and snow leopards.
- Famous Places in NepalFamous places, top 10, cities and offbeat picks.
- Seasonal NepalRhododendron, autumn views, snow, monsoon and wildflowers.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
