Currency and money

Ngultrum - The Currency in Bhutan

The Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee at a 1:1 ratio. Especially if you enter from India, you can also use Indian Rupees for transactions.

Larger denominations of Bhutan's currency Ngultrum are not readily accepted or even refused due to counterfeiting issues. The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan has thus published updated information on added security features on the new banknotes.

Unlike the Euro, Bhutan's currency itself is colorful and imaginatively designed. The one Ngultrum note in blue depicts dragons, while the five Ngultrum note features mystical birds. Often, important historical figures or symbols of luck can also be found on Bhutan's banknotes.

Currency Exchange in Bhutan

To have Ngultrum available for your trip, we recommend exchanging your own currency abundantly. Essentially, dollars and euros are also accepted in larger cities, but it is advisable to have the local currency available for purchases at markets, in smaller settlements, and local shops, and to carry Bhutanese Ngultrum.

You will find exchange offices in Thimphu and at Paro Airport. A few more are available in the country. Additionally, you can exchange money into Bhutan's currency at the Bank of Bhutan branches in all major currencies at fair exchange rates. We recommend keeping the exchange receipt for any potential re-exchange; otherwise, converting back to euros could prove difficult.

It is also possible to withdraw Ngultrum from the few ATMs available in Bhutan. However, do not rely too much on these machines. Not only are they not yet widespread, but they are often also filled with insufficient cash or out of order, leaving you without cash in case of doubt.

Other Payment Methods in Bhutan

During your trip, you can cash traveler's checks from various providers at any bank in Bhutan. However, always consider the fees associated with this.

Furthermore, in some luxury hotels and most handicraft stores in Bhutan, you can also pay with credit cards. Pay attention to which providers are accepted. From our experience, Visa cards are particularly common.

At the few ATMs in Bhutan, you usually cannot withdraw money with a credit card. If you have found such a machine in Bhutan, you will be charged corresponding fees according to your credit institution.