Is USD or AUD Widely Acceptable in Bhutan?

When you start a trip to Bhutan, you're advised to bring some US dollars for incidental expenses. Though Bhutan's currency is Ngultrum (Nu/BTN), the US dollar is readily acceptable at major handicraft emporiums and some large hotels in Bhutan. AUD is not acceptable as USD; however, it can be easily exchanged for Ngultrum in Bhutan. The Indian rupee is accepted in Bhutan as legal tender, which is at par with Ngultrum, but Indian notes in 500 and 1000 denominations are not accepted.

Where to Exchange Money in Bhutan?

Major international currencies, including but not limited to USD, AUD, EUR and Rupee, are easy to exchange at the foreign-exchange counter of the airport, at the banks and at some big hotels in Bhutan. The exchange rates at the airport are the same as at the banks. However, it can be hard to find banks outside the capital of Thimpu. Some hotels in Thimpu also have exchange facility but the rate is not so good. So your best option is to change your money into local currency upon arrival at the airport.

Please keep in mind that currency exchange in Bhutan can be a very time-consuming process. You need to queue for a long time and most banks have limited opening hours (normally from 9 am to 1 pm from Monday to Saturday, even shorter time on weekends). So get the money you need at the first time. You can also ask for the help of your tour guide (locals do not need to show passport details and thus save time).

What are the Exchange Rates Between Bhutan Ngultrum （BTN） and Major Foreign Currencies?

The exchange rates between BTN and other currencies are subject to change. The following table is only for reference.

Note: The exchange rates are subject to change. Keep in mind that exchange rates for USD 50 and USD 100 are better than for smaller denominations (large transactions are more favored by banks). Also, be aware that banks in Bhutan do not accept USD 100 notes printed in 1996 due to a counterfeiting incident that took place in that year.

The Face Side of 50 Ngultrums of Bhutan

Which Banks in Bhutan are Handy for Foreign Travelers?

While in Bhutan, you can avail of the following banks: the Bank of Bhutan Limited (BOB), the Bhutan National Bank, the Druk PNB and the Tashi Bank, which provide Internet banking facilities.

Are Credit Cards Widely Accepted in Bhutan? How about the Travelers' Cheque?

Credit Cards have limited acceptability. Only the government-run handicrafts emporiums, a few other handicraft shops and some large hotels in Thimphu accept common credit cards like Visa or MasterCard but the transaction fees are high.

Traveler checks can be cashed at the foreign exchange counter at the airport, any bank and most hotels. You'll be charged some 1% for cheque encashment. Meanwhile, you should carry the most well-known brands like American Express, Visa, Thomas Cook, Citibank or Barclays. Remember that there is no replacement facility for traveler cheques in Bhutan, so if t a traveler's cheque is lost or stolen, it can not be refunded.

Can I use an ATM to Withdraw Money in Bhutan?

Yes. ATM machines are available in the main cities of Bhutan. You can withdraw money with a Visa or MasterCard.

The Bank of Bhutan (BOB) has an extensive ATM network in Bhutan. The ATMs accept Visa and MasterCard cards issued all around the globe. You can withdraw cash up to Nu.10000 per transaction yet the maximum daily withdrawal amount is subject to your card issuer.

BOB has 3 ATMs in Paro, respectively in Branch Premises, Bondey Town and Paro Airport. In Thimpu, you can find Branch Premises (Old Building Gate), Druk Shopping Complex, Motithang, JDWNR Hospital and other locations.

Do I need to Bring a Large Sum of Cash to Bhutan?

Actually, there is no need to bring much money since almost everything else from meals to accommodation to transportation will be covered in your tour package (It is a government regulation that tourists must book their travel to Bhutan with a travel agency). You'll only need money for handicrafts and souvenirs like tapestries and thangkas and some other personal expenses like tipping; In addition, in some large handicraft emporiums, you can pay in US dollars and credit card.

Share this article if you find it helpful! You are welcome to write and let me know any of your questions about travel to Bhutan.