Nepal - Money
Currency & Money
Nepalese Rupee (NPR; symbol Rs) = 100 paisa. Notes are in denominations of Rs1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50, 25 and 10 paisa.
Note:(a) Visitors should bear in mind that foreign visitors other than Indian nationals are required to pay their airline tickets, trekking permits and hotel bills in foreign currency. (b) Taking Nepalese currency outside the country is prohibited.
American Express is widely accepted, with MasterCard and Visa in tourist shops, hotels, restaurants and agencies. ATMs are widely available in Nepal, however, it is not possible to withdraw cash in the mountains. Those embarking on treks should take enough cash for the duration of their trek.
American Express is widely accepted, with MasterCard and Visa in tourist shops, hotels, restaurants and agencies. ATMs are widely available in Nepal, however, it is not possible to withdraw cash in the mountains. Those embarking on treks should take enough cash for the duration of their trek.
Travellers cheques are accepted at banks and major hotels. If trekking, it is important to bear in mind that cash is necessary. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.
Banks in the Kathmandu valley are open Sun-Thurs 0930-1530 and Fri 0930-1330. Licensed money changers are open 12 hours per day.
The import of US$5,000 or more, or the equivalent amount in any other currency, must be declared on arrival. The export of local and foreign currency must be declared.
It is illegal to exchange currency with persons other than authorised dealers in foreign exchange (banks, hotels and licensed money changers). Visitors should obtain Foreign Exchange Encashment Receipts when changing currency and keep them, as these will help in many transactions, including getting visa extensions and trekking permits.
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