Is Bhutan cashless?
Cash preferred#123 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #21 of 32 in Asia
Short answer: Plan to use cash every day. Cards are mainly for hotels and bigger businesses.
Most visitors prepay tours, which cover the essentials. Cards work in some Thimphu and Paro hotels and shops; carry cash for everything else.
Will my card work?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Bhutan, and little else.
Do I need cash?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Bhutan.
Local currency: Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN)
How does tipping work?
Tip guides and drivers at the end of a tour, usually in cash.
Mobile payments
No widely used mobile wallets for visitors. Stick to cards where accepted, and cash.
Good to know
- Indian rupees are accepted alongside the ngultrum, except 500 and 2000 rupee notes in some places.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bhutan cashless?
Bhutan scores 30/100 on Cashlessy (cash preferred), ranking #123 of 197 countries. Most visitors prepay tours, which cover the essentials. Cards work in some Thimphu and Paro hotels and shops; carry cash for everything else.
Do I need cash in Bhutan?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Bhutan.
Are credit cards accepted in Bhutan?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Bhutan, and little else.
Do you tip in Bhutan?
Tip guides and drivers at the end of a tour, usually in cash.
Compare with Asia
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.