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Money & duty free for Bhutan

Currency information: 

1 Ngultrum (BTN; symbol Nu) = 100 chetrum (Ch). The Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee (which is also acccepted as legal tender). Notes are in denominations of Nu500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of Nu1, and 50, 25 and 20 chetrum. Smaller denomination notes and coins have been discontinued but are still in circulation and are legal tender. US Dollars are also widely accepted.

Credit cards: 

Most cards have limited acceptability. ATMs only accept Bhutanese bank cards.

ATM: 

ATMs only accept Bhutanese bank cards.

Travellers cheques: 

These can be exchanged in any branch of the Bank of Bhutan or at all BTCL hotels. Travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

Banking hours: 

Mon-Fri 0900-1500, Sat 0900-1200.

Currency restriction: 

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency, but foreign currency must be declared upon arrival.

Currency exchange: 

Leading foreign currencies are accepted but traveller's cheques are preferred and receive a better exchange rate. Major hotels in Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing will also exchange foreign currency.

Bhutan duty free

The following goods may be imported into Bhutan.

• 200 cigarettes.
• 1L of spirits.
• Personal effects for daily use, instruments or appliances for professional use and electronic equipment for personal use.

Note: Cameras, videos, mobile telephones and all other electronic equipment for personal use must be registered with the authorities on arrival and will be checked by customs on departure. Import of plants/soil is subject to quarantine. All tobacco will be subject to a 200% custom tax on arrival.

Banned imports: 

Firearms, narcotics, plants.

Banned exports: 

The export of antiques, religious objects, manuscripts, images and anthropological materials is strictly prohibited (regarded as those 100 years or older) and closely monitored by the Bhutanese authorities.

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