How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Nepal?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Cash is essential in Nepal, especially beyond Kathmandu — Standard Chartered, Nabil, and Everest Bank ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards.
2What You Need to Know
Daily ATM withdrawal limits are typically NPR 10,000–35,000 per transaction, meaning multiple withdrawals may be needed for a long trip. Power cuts can knock out ATMs, particularly outside Kathmandu, so always carry a cash buffer. Trekking areas above Lukla have virtually no ATMs — withdraw all the cash you need in Kathmandu before your flight. Carrying USD or EUR as emergency backup is wise since they can be exchanged reliably. The Wise card works at most ATMs and avoids foreign transaction fees.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu to cover your entire Everest Base Camp trek — banking infrastructure disappears after Lukla.
- 2Use the Wise card to minimize ATM fees and get near mid-market exchange rates; load it with your home currency before your trip.
- 3Exchange USD or EUR at licensed money changers in Thamel for competitive rates — hotel exchange desks offer poor rates.
Important Warning
Fake NPR notes do circulate; check bills carefully especially 500 and 1,000 NPR notes when receiving change from street vendors.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
Japan is heavily cash-based — always carry yen. 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards.
Thai ATMs charge a 220 baht fee per foreign card withdrawal — minimise withdrawals, carry cash for markets and temples, and always choose to be charged in Thai baht.
ATMs from DBS, OCBC, UOB, and POSB are widespread, but contactless payments and e-wallets are accepted almost everywhere in Singapore.
Traveling to Nepal?
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Airalo eSIM
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More About Nepal
Tipping is not mandatory but deeply appreciated given the low wages in the service industry, especially for trekking guides and porters.
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Nepal has no trains; travel is by local bus, shared jeep, domestic flight, or app-based taxi depending on the route and region.
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Kathmandu has reliable private hospitals with English-speaking doctors, but medical facilities outside major cities are extremely limited and altitude sickness is a life-threatening risk on treks.
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Nepal's key legal risks for tourists include strict drug laws, a prohibition on harming or disrespecting cows, and a ban on proselytizing to Hindus or Buddhists.
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Key emergency numbers are 100 (police), 102 (ambulance), 101 (fire), and 1144 for the tourist police in Kathmandu.
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Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and religious sites, and always remove shoes before entering any temple or many homes.
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