Nepal Currency Exchange Guide: Best Tips & Rates

The Nepalese Currency

The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is Nepal’s main currency, split into 100 Paisa. Coins come in 1, 2, 5, and 10 rupees. Banknotes are in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 1,000 rupees. The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), Nepal’s central bank, sets exchange rates daily.

Note: Rates change every day. Check NRB’s website or local exchange centers for current rates.

Tip: Carry small notes (20, 50 NPR) for street vendors, taxis, and tipping.

Where to Exchange Money in Nepal

You can exchange major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR) at these trusted spots:

✔️ Banks: Standard Chartered Nepal, Himalayan Bank, and Nepal SBI Bank give good rates.

✔️ Licensed Money Exchangers: These are in tourist areas like Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara).

✔️ Hotels: Big hotels offer exchanges, but their rates are not as good.

✔️ Tribhuvan International Airport: Easy to use but gives lower rates.

Best Practice: Exchange a small amount (like USD 50) at the airport for quick needs. Then, go to Thamel or Lakeside for better rates. Keep exchange receipts to change leftover NPR back.

Using ATMs for Cash in Nepal

ATMs are common in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Banks like Nabil Bank and Everest Bank run them 24/7. Key points:

✔️ Limits: You can withdraw NPR 10,000–30,000 per transaction.

✔️ Fees: Foreign cards pay NPR 500–700 per withdrawal.

✔️ Safety: Tell your bank you’re traveling to Nepal to avoid card problems.

Pro Tip: Take out larger amounts to cut down on fees. Keep cash safe, especially when trekking in remote areas without ATMs.

Paying with Credit and Debit Cards

Visa, MasterCard, and American Express work at:

✔️ Top hotels and restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

✔️ Some tourist shops and malls.

✔️ Cash is better in rural areas, guesthouses, and small shops. Card payments may add a 3–4% fee. For cash advances, banks like Standard Chartered give NPR using Visa or MasterCard.

Tip: Check if cards are accepted before eating or shopping to avoid issues.

International Money Transfers

Banks handle international transfers, giving funds in NPR within 1–2 days. Sending money out of Nepal is limited to Nepalese citizens for specific reasons (like education or work).

Budgeting for Your 2025 Nepal Trip

Plan your costs based on your travel style:

✔️ Budget Travelers: $25–$40/day (guesthouses, local food, public transport).

✔️ Mid-Range Travelers: $50–$100/day (nice hotels, restaurants, guided tours).

✔️ Luxury Travelers: $150+/day (fancy hotels, private transport, adventure activities).

Cost Breakdown:

Food:

✔️ Dal bhat (local meal): NPR 200–500

✔️ Western meal in Kathmandu: NPR 500–1,500

✔️ Street food (momo, samosa): NPR 50–200

Transport:

✔️ Taxi in Kathmandu: NPR 300–1,000

✔️ Local bus: NPR 15–50

✔️ Tourist bus (Kathmandu–Pokhara): NPR 1,200–3,000

Nepal’s Foreign Exchange Rules

✔️ Import Limits: Bring up to USD 5,000 (or equal amount) without declaring. Declare larger amounts at customs.

✔️ Indian Rupees (INR): Only INR 100 or lower notes are allowed. INR 500 and 2,000 notes are not permitted.

✔️ Exporting NPR: You can take up to NPR 5,000 out of Nepal. Change extra NPR back before leaving.

✔️ Policy: Only licensed centers can exchange currency, following NRB rates. Keep receipts to change NPR back.

FAQs: Nepal Currency and Payments

Exchanging Currency

1. Should I exchange money before traveling to Nepal?
No need. Use airport counters for quick needs, then go to Thamel or Lakeside centers for better rates.

2. Where are the best currency exchange spots in Nepal?
Licensed exchangers in Thamel (Kathmandu) or Lakeside (Pokhara) and banks like Himalayan Bank give great rates.

3. Can I use Indian Rupees in Nepal?
Yes, but only INR 100 or lower notes are accepted.

Using Cards

4. Are credit cards widely accepted in Nepal?
Visa and MasterCard work at big hotels and restaurants in cities. You need cash elsewhere.

5. What are ATM fees in Nepal?
Foreign cards pay NPR 500–700 per withdrawal, with limits of NPR 10,000–30,000.

Budgeting Tips

6. Is $100 enough for a few days in Nepal?
Yes, $100 covers 3–4 days for budget travelers (simple lodging, local food). Add more for activities.

7. How much does a meal cost in Nepal?
Local meals cost NPR 200–500. Western meals cost NPR 500–1,500.

Top Money-Saving Tips for Nepal Travelers

✔️ Choose Licensed Exchangers: Avoid scams by using NRB-approved centers.

✔️ Save Receipts: You need them to change NPR back to foreign currency.

✔️ Skip Airport Exchanges: City rates are better.

✔️ Carry Cash for Treks: Remote areas have no ATMs or card options.

✔️ Use a Converter App: Apps like XE Currency show live NPR rates.

✔️ Opt for Small Notes: They’re useful for small buys and tipping.

By D. Prakash, a travel enthusiast and manager who pairs a passion for exploration with dynamic leadership, thriving on discovery in every journey.