Nepal is set to ease long-standing currency restrictions by allowing the circulation of Indian currency notes above ₹100, a move expected to significantly benefit tourism and cross-border travel. According to The Kathmandu Post, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) is in the final stages of formalising the decision, with an official notification to be published in the Nepal Gazette soon.
NRB spokesperson Guru Prasad Poudel said circulars will follow for banks and financial institutions, although an exact implementation date is yet to be confirmed. The change follows a recent amendment by the Reserve Bank of India permitting individuals to carry Indian currency of any denomination up to ₹25,000 between the two countries.
The decision is expected to ease travel for tourists, pilgrims, students and medical visitors, while addressing challenges faced by Nepal’s hospitality and casino sectors, which rely heavily on Indian travellers. While digital QR payments are now permitted, limited connectivity in remote regions has reinforced the need for easier access to physical currency.
