No issues elsewhere, but in Nepal, both ATMs and stores keep rejecting my card. Anyone know if this is common? Any banks that actually work?
From my trip, I can say card rejection in Nepal is normal. Himalayan Bank worked with my Visa, but in Bhaktapur and rural areas nothing did. Even in Kathmandu, many stores refused cards. Budget around 3,500 NPR daily for food, hotels, and entrance fees to temples. ATMs often charge high fees and sometimes run out of money. Always withdraw more than you think you’ll need, and carry rupees if you’re planning treks or bus rides across the country.
I had mixed luck in Nepal-my Visa worked at Standard Chartered ATMs in Kathmandu, but failed everywhere else. In Lukla and Namche Bazaar, no ATMs worked at all, so cash was the only option. Guesthouses, markets, and trekking shops expect rupees in cash. For a safe budget, keep 3,000 NPR per day in hand if you’re doing treks, plus more for permits and guides. Don’t assume ATMs will be reliable outside major cities-cash is absolutely essential in Nepal.
Card rejection is very common in Nepal. In Pokhara, three ATMs declined my Mastercard until I found an NMB Bank ATM that finally worked. Hotels and some restaurants in Kathmandu accept cards, but everywhere else prefers cash. Budget 2,500-3,500 NPR per day for food, buses, and sightseeing like Durbar Square or Phewa Lake. ATMs also have low withdrawal limits (around 35,000 NPR), so you may need multiple transactions. Always carry extra rupees for taxis, tea houses, and trekking villages.
In Kathmandu, some ATMs rejected my card, especially in Thamel. Nabil Bank and Standard Chartered usually worked for Visa, but others failed. Smaller stores and trekking shops asked for cash in Nepalese rupees. Out on the Annapurna Circuit, cards were useless-everything was cash only. For budgeting, plan around 3,000-4,000 NPR daily for meals, lodging, and permits. Withdraw cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before heading into trekking areas, because ATMs are rare and often empty in the mountains.