The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Foreign currencies such as US dollars, euros, and pounds are widely exchanged in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other tourist hubs. However, daily transactions—transport, food, entrance fees, and shopping—are almost always conducted in Nepalese rupees.
ATMs are common in major cities and tourist areas, but they can be unreliable at times and usually have withdrawal limits. It is common for machines to run out of cash or be temporarily out of service, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons. Travellers are advised to carry enough cash when leaving cities or heading into trekking regions, where ATMs are rarely available.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is still preferred for smaller businesses, local transport, and rural areas. Some places may add a surcharge for card payments. Carrying a mix of cash and cards provides the most flexibility.
Money exchange counters are easy to find in tourist areas, and rates are generally competitive. Keeping small denominations is useful, as change can be limited in local shops and transport.
How did you manage money during your trip in Nepal—mostly cash, cards, or a mix of both?
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