Bhutan’s currency is the ngultrum, written Nu. and coded BTN. It is fixed at the same value as the Indian rupee. On a trip with us your hotels, meals, guide and transport are paid for before you arrive, so the money you need in the country is for small things: drinks, souvenirs, entry fees and tips.
Cash
US dollars are the easiest currency to bring and can be changed at the airport, at banks and at larger hotels. Bring clean, undamaged notes. Indian rupees are also widely accepted. Carry notes of Rs 100 and smaller; the Rs 500 note has been refused at times.
Change or withdraw what you need in Paro or Thimphu. Further east, banks and ATMs are fewer. Ngultrum cannot be used outside Bhutan, so change back what you have left before you fly.
Cards and ATMs
Visa and Mastercard work at ATMs and bank counters in the main towns. Some larger hotels and craft shops accept cards, sometimes with a surcharge. Do not rely on a card in small shops, at markets or in villages. Tell your bank you are travelling, as some block transactions from Bhutan.
Paying by phone
Bhutanese pay for almost everything by scanning a QR code with a banking app. Visitors can use two of these wallets: goBoB, from the Bank of Bhutan, and MyPay, from Bhutan National Bank. They are useful on a long stay. For a week’s visit, cash is simpler.
How much to bring
That depends on what you buy. Handwoven textiles can cost a great deal, and a postcard costs very little. Entry fees for monuments are paid on the spot. In 2026 they run from Nu. 100 to Nu. 1,000 a site, Tiger’s Nest being the dearest.
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory in Bhutan. It is customary to tip your guide and driver at the end of the trip if you are happy with them, and on a trek the cook and crew as well. Hotel and restaurant bills usually include a service charge.
Customs rules
You must declare cash worth US$10,000 or more when you arrive. Antiques may not be exported, and the rule is enforced, so buy only new items and keep your receipts.
Checked against the Department of Tourism’s website on 3 October 2026.