When planning a trip to Nepal, one practical consideration is what currency to bring. Should you carry US dollars, euros, or local Nepali rupees? This choice can impact how much you pay in fees and exchange rates. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of bringing dollars versus euros based on recent traveler experiences in Nepal.
Overall, most travelers to Nepal find both US dollars and euros are easily exchanged and widely accepted. The general consensus is that you should bring whichever global currency is standard in your home country to avoid extra fees from converting your local money first.
Once in Nepal, you can exchange either dollars or euros for rupees as needed. Rates are readily available and Nepal banks and money changers accept both currencies. Some travelers report slightly better dollar exchange rates compared to euros, but the difference is generally minor.
When paying with foreign currency in Nepal, dollars or euros are accepted for many big purchases like trek packages, hotel rooms, and flights. However, for daily expenses like meals, shopping, and tips, it’s better to pay in rupees. This shows respect for the local currency. Carrying a mix of foreign cash and rupees obtained from ATMs or exchanges is a good approach.
For the visa on arrival, dollars or euros are fine, but you must have the exact cash amount as they do not provide change. It’s wise to check current visa fees and have that amount handy in one currency or the other before landing in Nepal. When paying the visa on arrival fee, travelers emphasize the cash-only policy. Having $25-30 USD or €30 EUR in hand saves hassle. Immigration officers do not provide change, so you must have the exact visa amount in one currency.
When exchanging money, larger amounts typically get better rates. In banks or reputable exchanges, you can exchange hundreds of dollars or euros at once versus ATM limits. Smaller exchanges may apply slightly worse rates, but travelers report successfully negotiating closer to official rates for big trades.
ATMs in Nepal dispense rupees and apply fees, yet are still economical for taking out day-to-day cash. The key is having an international card with low foreign transaction fees to minimize costs. With the right card, ATMs give close to official exchange rates.
Some experienced Nepal travelers prefer to bring all spending money in cash. They exchange a large lump sum on arrival to get the best rate, then rely on those rupees for the whole trip without extra ATM fees. However, ATMs provide a backup if you run short on cash and are wary of carrying huge amounts. Travelers report Nepali ATMs dispense a maximum of 10,000 NPR (about $100 USD) per transaction. With most machines limiting withdrawals to once per day, it takes making 3-4 ATM visits to obtain enough rupees for a multi-week trek. Each ATM use also incurs a fee of around 500 NPR ($5 USD).
When trekking in remote areas, dollars and euros are accepted for lodging, but having rupees is important for many costs. Relying solely on foreign currency is risky if you get stranded without ways to exchange money. Though less convenient, some lodges will exchange other currencies in a pinch.
The bottom line is US dollars and euros are on nearly equal footing in Nepal. Both offer easy exchange and wide acceptance. Focus more on securing a favorable exchange rate when trading your cash once in country rather than which currency you start with. Shop around banks and exchanges to compare daily rates.
If carrying foreign currency, it’s wise to have a mix of large and small bills. Big notes get better rates when changing large amounts. Smaller bills are easier for buying small items, meals, or tips without requiring lots of rupee change.
Be strategic about when and where you exchange money in Nepal for the best value. Change just enough to cover initial costs like visa and transport from the airport, then compare bank rates in Kathmandu before exchanging any larger amounts. Consider exchanging through your trekking agency if they can get competitive rates.
To avoid carrying excessive cash, many opt to pay for big ticket items like tours, hotels, and airfare with a credit card instead. Then use cash obtained in Nepal for variable daily expenses. Withdraw only what you need when you need it via ATMs to cut down on fees and risk.
Both dollars and euros are highly useful currencies to carry when visiting Nepal. The right choice comes down to convenience based on what foreign cash you already possess. With strategic exchanges, both currencies can provide excellent value when traveling through this amazing country.
