Nepal Payment Methods and Currency Exchange Guide

Nepal’s official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Cash is widely used, especially outside major cities. Credit cards are accepted in urban areas, hotels, and some restaurants, but cash is preferred in rural regions.

• Official currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
• Payment methods: Cash (NPR), credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), limited acceptance of mobile payments
• Contactless/mobile wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Alipay are rarely accepted; local apps like eSewa and Khalti are more common
• ATM availability: ATMs are available in cities and tourist areas; most accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard), but may charge fees (typically NPR 400–500 per withdrawal)
• Currency exchange: Available at banks, licensed exchange offices, and airports; rates may vary
• Foreign currency restrictions: Large cash transactions in foreign currency are not permitted; payments must be made in NPR
• Cash import/export limits: Up to NPR 5,000 and foreign currency equivalent to USD 5,000 can be brought in or taken out without declaration; amounts above must be declared to customs
• Transaction fees: Foreign card surcharges and ATM fees are common; check with your bank for international withdrawal charges
• Common issues: Card acceptance may be limited outside Kathmandu and Pokhara; always carry sufficient cash for remote areas
• Major banks: Nepal Investment Bank, Nabil Bank, Standard Chartered Nepal
• Regulations: The Nepal Rastra Bank regulates currency exchange and payment systems; travelers should comply with customs and banking rules