Money & Currency

Nepal uses the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). In cities, ATMs and digital payments are common; in remote areas, cash is king. This guide shows how to carry money safely, avoid fees, and plan a comfortable daily budget.

1) The practical money strategy (works for most travelers)

The best setup is simple: withdraw NPR in the city, keep some smaller notes for daily spending, and keep a second card as backup. Don’t try to solve your entire trip budget on Day 1—just create a reliable routine.

Your “smart carry” setup

  • Main wallet: small NPR + one active card
  • Backup: second card stored separately (hotel bag)
  • Emergency cash: small USD/NPR hidden in a different pocket

Where cash matters most

Nepal is very cash-friendly, especially outside big cities. You’ll want cash for local transport, small eateries, trail snacks, tips, and charging fees on treks.

  • Tea houses, local buses, and remote villages
  • Small tours, guides, porters (often cash)
  • Entrance tickets at some sites
Golden rule: Withdraw and exchange in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Do not wait until you are deep in the hills—ATMs can be rare or unreliable.

2) ATMs, fees, and cards (how to avoid frustration)

Most travelers use ATMs in cities, then carry cash for day-to-day needs. Fees and withdrawal limits vary, so don’t panic if the first ATM is out of service—just try another nearby.

Method Best for Watch-outs
ATM withdrawal Most convenient city cash supply Fees + occasional machine downtime
Card payments Hotels, nicer restaurants, some shops Extra surcharge sometimes; always confirm
Cash exchange Backup option for foreign currency Rates vary; keep receipts

ATM success checklist

  • Use ATMs in busier areas (more reliable)
  • Withdraw in a well-lit spot, avoid late-night alone
  • Keep one card as “ATM card,” one as backup

Cash notes (small is powerful)

Small NPR notes reduce daily hassle: you can pay exact fares, buy snacks, and tip politely without breaking big bills.

Budgeting (realistic mindset)

  • City days: more card options
  • Trek days: cash + limited choices
  • Keep an emergency buffer for delays

3) Safety & scams (simple habits that work)

Nepal is generally friendly, but the best travel security is boring and consistent: split your money, avoid showing large wads of cash, and keep your backups separate.

Safe money habits

  • Split cash into 2–3 places
  • Use hotel safe/secure bag for backup card
  • Check bills and keep exchange receipts

Common “cost traps”

The biggest overspending usually comes from rushed decisions—last-minute transport, overpriced airport taxis, or skipping price checks. Ask calmly, compare once, then move forward.

Tip: If you’re tired, choose the safest option (hotel pickup / trusted taxi). You can optimize costs after you rest.