Currency & Costs in Nepal
Nepal uses the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). It is a relatively affordable destination, but costs vary widely depending on your travel style, region, and activities.
Exchange Rates & Money Changers
As a rough guide, 1 USD equals approximately NPR 130-135 (check current rates before traveling). Money changers are abundant in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara) and generally offer better rates than the airport. Compare a few before exchanging. Banks offer official rates but have longer wait times. Keep your exchange receipts — you may need them to convert NPR back when leaving.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other major towns. Most accept Visa and Mastercard. Withdrawal limits are typically NPR 35,000-50,000 per transaction, with a fee of NPR 500 per withdrawal. Nabil Bank, Himalayan Bank, and Standard Chartered generally work well with international cards. ATMs are scarce to nonexistent on trekking routes — withdraw enough cash before heading into the mountains.
Daily Cost Estimates
Budget travelers spending on guesthouses, local food, and public transport can manage on $20-35/day. Mid-range travelers staying in decent hotels and eating at tourist restaurants typically spend $50-100/day. Luxury travelers at high-end lodges and resorts should budget $150-300+/day. Trekking adds $25-50/day for permits, guides, and teahouse meals. Internal flights, activities like paragliding ($70-100), and shopping are additional.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Nepal. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included — check your bill before tipping extra. For trekking guides, the convention is to tip $5-10/day; for porters, $3-5/day. Taxi drivers and hotel staff do not expect tips but appreciate small amounts. Always tip in cash, directly to the person.
Money Tips
- •Carry a mix of cash (NPR) and a backup debit/credit card.
- •Withdraw large amounts in cities to minimize ATM fees.
- •Small denominations (NPR 50-500) are essential on treks and in villages.
- •Indian Rupees (INR) are accepted in border towns but not elsewhere.
- •Credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels and some tourist shops, often with a 3-4% surcharge.
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