Druk Asia
Before planning your trip to Bhutan, it is essential to learn more about the Bhutanese currency.
What is the currency of Bhutan?
The official currency of Bhutan is known as Ngultrum (‘/əNGˈɡəltrəm/’). It can be literally translated as ‘silver’ for ngul and ‘coin’ for trum.
On April 6, 1974, a simple yet traditional ceremony took place in Thimphu to launch the Ngultrum (symbol: Nu., code: BTN) as the legal currency of Bhutan.
The Ngultrum banknotes are available in the denominations of Nu. 5, Nu. 10, Nu. 20, Nu. 50, Nu. 100, Nu. 500 and Nu. 1,000.
Anything below 1 Ngultrum is known as Chetrum. Hence, 1 Ngultrum is equal to 100 Chetrum.
You can find the following coins in Bhutan: Ch. 0.05, Ch. 0.10, Ch. 0.20, Ch. 0.25, Ch. 0.50, and Nu. 1.
Fun Fact:
On the back of Nu. 1000, you will find the image of Tashichho Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most prominent dzongs. Meanwhile, on the front of the banknote, you can find the Wheel of Dharma encircled by two dragons in the centre and a portrait of the 5th King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
Additional things that you need to know about the Bhutanese Ngultrum
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Indian Rupees are on par with the Bhutanese Ngultrums. 1 Indian Rupee is equal to 1 Ngultrum.
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Indian Rupees (INR50, INR100 and INR500) are commonly accepted in Bhutan.
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However, you cannot use Bhutanese Ngultrum in India.
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INR1000 rupees are not officially accepted in Bhutan due to counterfeit issues.
Where can you exchange your foreign currency in Bhutan?
You can get your foreign currencies exchanged at Paro International Airport foreign exchange desk. Alternatively, you can also do currency exchange at the Bank of Bhutan in Paro and Thimphu.
It is important to note that only 10 major foreign currencies are accepted to be exchanged: U.S. Dollar, Pound Sterling, Euro, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, Hong Kong Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Danish Kroner, Australian Dollar, and Singapore Dollar.
Some hotels do provide foreign currency exchange services but are limited to only US dollars.
Therefore, it is advisable to exchange your foreign currencies at the airport or Bank of Bhutan. You are highly encouraged to bring larger denominations for exchange as the exchange rates vary according to denominations.
Important things that you need to know about cash and payment in Bhutan
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The ATMs in Bhutan use magnetic strips instead of digital chips, and the Government of Bhutan periodically block ATM withdrawals to combat fraud. Thus, you might encounter issues if you plan to withdraw cash via an ATM. You are highly encouraged to bring sufficient cash for your trip.
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The exchange rate for smaller denominations (eg: below USD100) is much lower — around 10% — than the larger bills. The larger denominations you carry, the better.
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US Dollar bills that are printed before 1993 are not accepted in Bhutan.
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If you want to bring extra foreign cash, it is advisable to have some spare US dollars as some shops do accept US dollars.
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You can find out the daily exchange rates at www.dailybhutan.com.
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Established tourist hotels, souvenir shops, and banks accept traveller cheques, American Express, and VISA credit cards. However, it is still advisable to bring enough cash since it is the most widely accepted payment and the payment gateway in Bhutan may encounter issues sometimes.
Why Do You Need Cash in Bhutan?
Although your tours are fully prepaid, you still need to bring cash for the following:
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Buying drinks or food in addition to your regular three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
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Paying for your laundry
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Buying SIM card (you'll get a FREE SIM card if you travel with Druk Asia)
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Giving tips to your guide and driver (non-obligation)
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If you want to make a small donation to the temples that you visit, you may also do so
Summary
Bhutanese Ngultrum is not widely accepted worldwide, and it cannot be used outside of Bhutan. You need to have it exchanged as soon as you arrive at Paro International Airport before you leave the country.
You should bring enough cash — preferably US dollar bills in larger denominations — since it is the most widely accepted mode of payment.
Keen to visit the Land of the Thunder Dragon?
Bhutan is a country known for its unique culture, tradition, food and architecture. If you are visiting Bhutan for the first time, you can consider taking a 7-day essential Bhutan tour or spending 10-day to delve deeper into Bhutan.
If you are planning for a luxury escapade, opt for an enchanting 5 Day Uma Paro Himalayan Adventure or 8 Day Amankora Journey.
Be sure to read tips to Bhutan and check out the best time to visit Bhutan while preparing for your trip of a lifetime.
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