Money in Bhutan

Ngultrum pegged to the Rupee

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is pegged 1:1 to the Indian Rupee (INR). Both currencies circulate freely throughout the country. Exchange facilities are available at Paro Airport and banks in Thimphu and Paro. Major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) can be exchanged at the Bank of Bhutan and Bhutan National Bank.

ATMs only in major towns

ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro but rare or nonexistent elsewhere. Bank of Bhutan and Bhutan National Bank ATMs accept international Visa and Mastercard. Withdraw enough cash before travelling to rural areas, valleys, or trekking routes. ATM withdrawals are in Ngultrum.

Cards accepted at upscale hotels only

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at some upscale hotels and a few shops in Thimphu and Paro. Outside these towns, expect to pay in cash. Since 2022 there is no mandatory all-inclusive package — you pay for accommodation, meals, transport and your guide yourself, separately from the Sustainable Development Fee, so budget for more day-to-day spending than the old prepaid-package model required.

Cash is king outside Thimphu

Carry sufficient Ngultrum or Indian Rupee notes for souvenirs, tips, personal purchases, and incidentals. Indian Rupee notes below a certain denomination are accepted everywhere; larger notes may occasionally be refused, so check which denominations are current before relying on them for a big purchase. Tipping is not traditional but appreciated — small tips for guides and drivers are customary for international visitors.