Money Matters

The majority of hotels, restaurants, carpet and handicraft shops can process payments by credit card. Most of those who can't know someone who can. Frequently the traders have to pay a 2% to 4% levy for using credit card payment so if price is the absolute priority, cash speaks louder than plastic - as always.

Most traders are happy to take payment in other, particularly 'hard' currencies and although the vast majority are honest it is wise to check the exchange rate quoted. It is also worth keeping in mind that as a result of a counterfeiting operation, 500 denominations of India Rupees are generally not accepted.

The first ATMs - with international links - have begun to appear outside banks such as Grindley's in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Cashing traveller's cheques generally requires the relevant passport as proof of ID.