Travel guide · Nepal
Money and ATMs in Nepal
The Nepali rupee, ATM fees, changing money, tipping and how much cash to carry on a trek — money sorted.
Nepal runs largely on cash, so a little planning saves hassle. The currency is the Nepali rupee (NPR), ATMs are common in towns but charge fees, and cards work in cities but rarely on the trails. Tipping is appreciated, and trekkers need to carry enough rupees in advance.
The short answer
Use ATMs in cities to withdraw rupees (expect a ~NPR 400–500 fee per withdrawal, so take out the maximum), keep plenty of cash for smaller places, and carry all your trek cash before setting off. Cards work in larger hotels and restaurants, often with a surcharge.
Cash, cards and ATMs
- Cash is king: Essential outside cities and on every trek.
- ATM fees: Around NPR 400–500 per transaction plus your bank's charge; low limits.
- Cards: Accepted at many city hotels and bigger restaurants, sometimes with a fee.
- Changing money: Licensed exchanges in tourist areas; keep receipts to convert rupees back on departure.
Tipping and trek budgeting
- Restaurants: A service charge is often added; otherwise rounding up or 10% is kind.
- Guides and porters: Tips are customary at the end of a trek; budget for them separately.
- Trek cash: Carry enough rupees for the whole route, as prices climb with altitude and ATMs vanish.
Before you head uphill, the Nepal trekking guide helps you estimate daily costs, and getting around Nepal covers transport prices. For where to spend it in the capital, see the best restaurants in Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Nepal?+
The Nepali rupee (NPR). Notes come in denominations up to 1,000 rupees, and the currency is closed, meaning you cannot easily buy or sell it outside Nepal. Change leftover rupees back before you fly home, keeping the receipt from your original exchange.
Do ATMs in Nepal charge fees?+
Yes. Most Nepali ATMs add a withdrawal fee of around NPR 400–500 per transaction, on top of any charge from your home bank. Withdrawal limits are often low, so withdraw the maximum at once to reduce the number of fees you pay.
Can I pay by card in Nepal?+
Cards work at many hotels, larger restaurants and tour agencies in cities, often with a surcharge. Outside the main towns, and on treks, Nepal is overwhelmingly a cash economy, so carry enough rupees for smaller places and rural areas.
How much cash should I carry on a trek?+
Carry all the cash you will need before you set off, as ATMs are rare or absent on trails and prices rise with altitude. Budget roughly NPR 3,000–5,000 per day for teahouse meals, lodging and extras, plus a buffer for emergencies.
