Money
Currency
1 Ngultrum (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, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of NU1, and 100, 50, 25, 10 and 5 chetrum. US Dollars are also widely accepted throughout the kingdom.
Currency exchange
Leading foreign currencies are accepted but travellers cheques are preferred and receive a better exchange rate. Major hotels in Thimphu and Phuntsholing, and the Olathang Hotel in Paro, will also exchange foreign currency.
Credit & debit cards
American Express and Diners Club have very limited acceptability. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques
These can be exchanged in any branch of the Bank of Bhutan or at all BTCL hotels. Travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
None, but foreign currency must be declared on arrival.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Ngultrum/Indian Rupee against Sterling and the US Dollar:
| Date | May '04 | Aug '04 | Nov '04 | Feb '05 | | 1.00= | 79.70 | 85.22 | 85.15 | 85.46 | | $1.00= | 44.62 | 46.26 | 44.96 | 45.25 |
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0900-1300. Some smaller branches may be open Saturday or Sunday for currency exchange.
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