Currency in Nepal

Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 denominations. Coins come in 5 paisa, 10p, 25p, Rs. 1, 2 and 5 denominations.Visitors can exchange foreign currency at the foreign exchange counter at the airport upon arrival. Visitors other than the Indian nationals have to make the payment in foreign currency (non-Indian currency) in hotel, trekking agencies or travel agencies. Money changers are open normally 8am to 8pm everyday. You can exchange your foreign currency at your Hotel, at Banks or your travel agent can help you.

Visa and Master cards are widely accepted in the cities, mostly Kathmandu and Pokhara. Bigger hotels and restaurants accept them but smaller hotels and restaurants will not accept them .If you are going for a trekking or remote area of Nepal, make sure you have enough Nepali cash for your personal expenses. Some lodges in the mountains may accept Cash US dollars but the exchange rate offered is very low.Indian currency works in Nepal except 500 and 1000 bills.

ATM

There are ATM machines at several places in Kathmandu, Pokhara and some other cities including some at Kathmandu airport. The credit card service charge is normally 3.5% in Nepal. You can also get Nepali Rupees against travelers cheques at banks.

BANKS

Banks are open Sunday to Friday 9.30am to 3pm. Some Banks use to open for evening counters till 6-7pm in Major city such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, Narayanghat etc.. Here are many banks at customer service in the city. Public holiday and Saturday, they are open for short hours.