Managing money while traveling in the Himalayas is easy when you understand the local currencies, banking systems, and ATM availability in advance. Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet each have their own financial practices, and access to banking facilities can vary between major cities and remote regions.
While modern services such as ATMs and credit cards are available in urban areas, cash remains essential, especially for small purchases, rural travel, and trekking regions. This guide provides practical information on currencies, banks, ATMs, card usage, and exchange options to help you manage your finances confidently throughout your journey in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.
Currency in Nepal:
- Official currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 rupees
- Coins: 1 and 2 rupee coins are less common but still in circulation
- Notes feature English numerals and distinctive colors for easy recognition
Currency in Tibet:
- Official currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY / Renminbi)
- Banknotes: 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 RMB (1, 2, 5 Mao) and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 RMB
Currency in Bhutan:
- Official currency: Ngultrum (Nu)
- Banknotes: Nu 1, Nu 10, Nu 20, Nu 50, Nu 100, Nu 500, Nu 1000
Banks
- Typical banking hours: Monday to Friday, 10 AM – 3 PM
- Some banks in larger cities have extended hours until 6–7 PM
- In Nepal, Saturdays are public holidays, though some banks may open briefly
- Major cities in all three countries have sufficient bank branches to handle deposits, withdrawals, and other services
ATMs
- Widely available in major cities of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan
- Less common in small towns or rural areas
- Accept most international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay
- ATM withdrawals may include service fees, and foreign-issued cards may incur additional charges
- Always carry local currency for smaller shops, markets, or rural areas
Credit Cards
- Accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas
- Surcharges of up to 4% may apply
- Cash is preferred for smaller purchases and rural transactions
Currency Exchange
- Nepal: Abundant exchange centers in major cities; easily exchange USD, GBP, EUR for NPR
- Tibet & Bhutan: Available at international airports and local banks, though less widespread than in Nepal
- Travelers should plan to carry enough local cash for smooth transactions, especially in remote areas
Key Points for Travelers
- Carry local currency for small transactions; cash is still widely used
- Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred elsewhere
- ATMs may be limited in rural areas; plan ahead for withdrawals
- Be aware of foreign card surcharges when using ATMs or paying with cards
This guide will help you navigate money, banking, and ATM access while exploring the unique landscapes and cultures of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.
