Money in Kathmandu: ATMs, Cards, Cash & Currency Exchange (2026)

Nepal runs largely on cash, and getting your money sorted in the first day saves a lot of friction. Here's the practical rundown on ATMs, cards and exchange in Kathmandu for 2026.

Cash is king

The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is a closed currency — you can't get it easily outside Nepal, and you can't take much out. Plan to arrive with a little foreign cash (USD or EUR are easiest to exchange) and get local rupees on the ground. Most day-to-day spending — taxis, local restaurants, shops, entry fees — is cash.

ATMs: expect low limits and a per-withdrawal fee

Kathmandu has plenty of ATMs, especially around Thamel, Durbar Marg and Lazimpat. Two things to know:

• Withdrawal limits are low — often NPR 35,000 per transaction (roughly USD 260), sometimes less.
• A flat fee of around NPR 500 applies per withdrawal on most foreign cards, on top of your own bank's fees.

So withdraw the maximum each time to minimise the per-transaction hit. Nabil Bank and Standard Chartered ATMs are widely reported to have the higher limits. Tell your bank you're travelling so the card isn't blocked.

Cards: fine at mid-range and up, not for everyday

Hotels, better restaurants, tour agencies and larger shops take Visa/Mastercard, though some add a 3–4% surcharge. Small restaurants, taxis, and markets are cash-only. Amex is rarely accepted. Never rely on cards alone.

Currency exchange

Licensed money changers cluster in Thamel and give better rates than the airport or hotels. Rates are competitive and openly displayed — compare a couple of windows, count your cash before leaving, and keep the receipt. Avoid changing large sums at the airport beyond taxi money.

Digital wallets

Local apps like eSewa and Khalti dominate among Nepalis, but they need a local bank account or number, so they're of limited use to short-stay visitors. Some ride apps and shops accept them.

A sensible money kit for Kathmandu

• One debit card for ATM withdrawals (+ a backup card kept separately)
• Some USD/EUR cash as a fallback and for exchange
• Enough rupees on you for a day or two; top up every few days
• Small notes for taxis and tips — breaking large notes can be a hassle

Budgeting a longer stay? Our cost of living in Kathmandu guide breaks down what a month actually costs. Sort your cash on day one and the rest of the trip runs smoothly.

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Staying in Kathmandu? Our self-check-in serviced apartments in Lazimpat put you a short walk from the city's best cafés, restaurants and embassies — with fast Wi-Fi, a full kitchen and inverter backup power. See the apartments →