Nepal (NP)
Nepal is a landlocked Himalayan nation between India and China, home to eight of the world's ten highest peaks including Mount Everest (8,849m).
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Nepal.
Denominations
Coins: Re 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10. Notes: Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 25, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500, Rs 1000. Exchange rate approx. Rs 133–135/USD (2026). Indian Rupee is accepted in many border areas (1 INR = 1.6 NPR).
Payment Culture
Nepal is predominantly cash-based. Digital wallets (eSewa, Khalti, IME Pay) are widely used in Kathmandu and major cities for bill payments, taxis, and shops. Cards are accepted at larger hotels, trekking agencies, and tourist restaurants. For trekking in remote areas, carry sufficient cash — there are no ATMs beyond certain trail checkpoints.
ATM Tips
ATMs are plentiful in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and tourist hubs. Standard Chartered, Himalayan Bank, and NMB Bank ATMs are most reliable for international cards. Withdrawal limit per transaction: Rs 10,000–35,000. Fee: Rs 300–500 per foreign card withdrawal. Carry cash for treks — the last reliable ATM on the Annapurna Circuit is in Jomsom; on Everest Base Camp trek, in Namche Bazaar.
Exchange Tips
Exchange at authorised money changers in Thamel (Kathmandu), Lakeside (Pokhara), or banks. Avoid street touts. Keep exchange receipts — you may need them to reconvert NPR at the airport. You cannot export more than Rs 5,000 in cash. Wise and Western Union work well for international transfers.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents