Nepal Currency & Money Guide — Exchanging AED, USD and Using ATMs

Money in Nepal

Nepal's currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Rates change daily, so check a live converter before you travel.

Exchanging Money

• US dollars are the easiest foreign currency to exchange; AED, SAR, QAR and other Gulf currencies are accepted at many licensed money changers in Thamel and Lakeside.
• Use licensed exchange counters or banks and keep your receipts.
• Avoid street changers offering unusually high rates.

ATMs and Cards

ATMs are common in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. Withdrawal limits per transaction are modest and fees apply, so withdraw larger amounts less often. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants but not on the trekking trails.

Cash for Treks

Carry enough NPR cash for the whole trek — meals, Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers and tips. There are few or no ATMs above the main trailhead towns.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated, not mandatory. A common guideline is to pool a tip for guides and porters at the end of a trek and 10% in restaurants when no service charge is added.

Budget Reminder

Visa fees at the airport are payable in USD cash — see our visa guide.