Travel Tips
ATM Availability in Nepal: Which Banks Work
ATMs are available across Nepal but reliability varies. This guide covers which ATMs work with foreign cards, withdrawal limits, and fees.
Overview
ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major tourist towns. However, they can be unreliable — machines run out of cash, have connectivity issues, or decline foreign cards without warning. Always carry a backup supply of cash when heading into remote areas.
Most ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard. American Express cards are less widely accepted. Withdrawal limits per transaction are typically NPR 5,000 to NPR 35,000 depending on the bank.
Key Tips
Global IME Bank, Himalayan Bank, NIC Asia, and Standard Chartered ATMs tend to have the best reliability with foreign cards. Nepal Investment Bank and Nabil Bank are also good options in Kathmandu.
Your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee of 1 to 3 percent plus the ATM operator fee (around NPR 300 to NPR 500 per transaction). Use a fee-free international bank card like Wise or Revolut to minimize costs.
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In Thamel and Lakeside Pokhara, ATMs are on almost every street. In areas like Bandipur or Mustang, ATMs are scarce — withdraw before you travel.
FAQ
What is the maximum I can withdraw from a Nepal ATM?
Most ATMs allow NPR 5,000 to NPR 35,000 per transaction. Some Himalayan Bank machines allow up to NPR 50,000. You can make multiple transactions if you need more.
Why did my card get declined at a Nepal ATM?
Inform your home bank before travel that you will be using your card in Nepal. Banks often block foreign transactions as a security measure. Also try a different ATM machine.
Are there ATMs on the trekking trails?
There are ATMs in Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Jomsom, but they are often empty or out of service. Withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting a trek.
