Bhutan Currency Exchange

Bhutan uses the Ngultrum (BTN) as its currency, with the same value as the Indian rupee. One US dollar is approximately equal to 67 Ngultrum. You can check the current exchange rate at www.xe.com.INR. It's important to note that while 100 and 50 Rupee denominations may be used in Bhutan, Ngultrum cannot be used in India. Additionally, specific Indian Rupee denominations - INR 500, INR 1000, and INR 2000 - are not accepted in Bhutan.

As a tourist, you can exchange traveler’s cheques or cash at the foreign exchange desk at Paro Airport and Bank of Bhutan branches in major townships such as Paro and Thimphu. However, as you travel into the interior, ATM and banking facilities are almost non-existent. Therefore, it is advisable to handle your banking needs in Paro or Thimphu and carry local currency when traveling to the countryside. Currencies that can be exchanged include the U.S. Dollar, Pound Sterling, Euro, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, Hong Kong Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Danish Krone, Australian Dollar, and Singapore Dollar. Some hotels also offer foreign exchange services, but these services are usually limited to U.S. Dollar exchanges.

It's important to note that credit cards are only accepted in a very limited number of handicraft stores in Thimphu and high-end hotels. There are also limited ATM facilities available in major townships, which accept MasterCard and Visa international credit and debit cards for cash withdrawal.