Bhutan
Money in Bhutan: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN) cash for most purchases; cards work in hotels and larger shops in Thimphu and Paro, and tip 5‑10% of the bill. Carry enough cash for markets, tips and small services.
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Key facts
- Currency
- Ngultrum (BTN)
- Cash necessity
- 3 (carry cash for daily needs)
- ATMs
- Thimphu and Paro only
- Card acceptance
- Hotels, larger shops and restaurants in Thimphu/Paro
- Typical tip
- 5‑10% of bill, round up for small services
Quick answer
Bhutan uses the ngultrum (BTN), pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee. Cash is essential for markets, taxis and tips; cards are accepted in most hotels and larger shops in Thimphu and Paro. Tip about 5‑10%.
Currency, ATMs and card use
The ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency; Indian rupees are also widely accepted but change may be limited to larger notes. ATMs are only in Thimphu and Paro, so bring enough cash for the rest of the country. Major hotels, restaurants and shops in these cities take Visa/MasterCard; smaller establishments and rural areas are cash‑only.
- Carry at least Nu 2,000–3,000 per day for meals, transport and small purchases.
- Withdraw BTN from ATMs in Thimphu/Paro; foreign cards may incur a 2‑3% fee.
- Indian rupee notes (₹500, ₹1,000) are accepted but may not receive change.
Tipping in Bhutan
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In hotels, restaurants and for guides, a tip of 5‑10% of the bill is customary. For drivers, porters and small service staff, round up the amount or give Nu 10‑20 per service.
- Restaurants: 5‑10% of the total bill.
- Guides: Nu 200‑500 per day (higher for private guides).
- Drivers/porters: Nu 10‑20 per trip.
Additional notes
The Sustainable Development Fee, visa and tour package are paid in advance, not in cash on arrival.
Exchange rates are fixed to the Indian rupee; check the latest rate before travel.
Credit cards may not work in remote lodges; keep a small cash reserve.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutan uses the ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee. Indian rupee notes are also accepted in many places.
Should I use cash or a card in Bhutan?
Carry cash for daily purchases, especially outside Thimphu and Paro. Cards work in most hotels, larger restaurants and shops in those cities.
How much should I tip in Bhutan?
Tip 5‑10% in restaurants and about Nu 200‑500 per day for guides. Small service staff usually receive Nu 10‑20 or a rounded‑up amount.
Where can I find ATMs in Bhutan?
ATMs are located in Thimphu and Paro only; plan withdrawals there and keep cash for the rest of your trip.
Are Indian rupee notes accepted?
Yes, Indian rupee notes are widely accepted, but change may be limited to larger denominations.
Check live
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialBhutan Tourism Board
- officialBhutan travel cost overview
Ask about Bhutan
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