The currency used in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee, which is divided into 100 paisa. Nepali Rupee notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000, while coins are available in 1 and 2 Rupee denominations. Foreign visitors, except Indian nationals, are required to pay hotel bills and air tickets in foreign currency. Nepali currency can be obtained from foreign exchange counters at the airport or through ATMs. Several banks throughout the city also have foreign currency exchange counters. It’s important to exchange foreign currency only through banks or authorized exchange services. When exchanging money at a bank or hotel counter, always ask for a receipt, as it is necessary to convert your Nepali rupees back to foreign currency when departing. Up to 15% of your exchange can be converted to hard currency upon departure. Tourists, except Indian nationals, are not allowed to import or export Indian currency. Exchange rates for foreign currencies are set by the Nepal Rastra Bank and are published in the daily press. Nepali currency is not accepted in India. Additionally, Indian currency notes of INR 500 and INR 1,000 denominations are prohibited from being brought into Nepal, will not be exchanged, and cannot be used for any transactions.
Banks
Banks in Nepal operate from 9 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday. Nepal Bank Ltd. on New Road (Ph: 4221185) is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. The Kantipath branch (Ph: 4227375) operates Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3:30 pm, on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm, and is closed on Sundays. Rastriya Banijya Bank’s exchange counter at Bishal Bazaar (Ph: 4223776) is open daily from 9 am to 3 pm, except on holidays. Additionally, there are many ATMs available in Thamel.
Credit/Debit Cards
Most debit and credit cards are accepted at various places such as hotels, restaurants, shopping complexes, and bars. However, if you pay by card, an additional service charge of 2-5% may be added by the bank.
