All modern Banking facilities are widely available in Nepal. Some of global chain of banks such as Standard Chartered has their office in Kathmandu and other major town of Nepal. Major foreign currencies / Traveler Cheques & credit cards such as American Express, Visa and Master Card are accepted in Nepal. Visitors are suggested to exchange their currency through banks, money exchanger or authorized agencies. These facilities are quick, convenient & reliable and also ask for the receipt against the exchange.
Remember: Check your credit balance and expiry date before leaving for longer journey !
Banks are opened almost everyday throughout the year from 09:00am to 15:00pm Sunday to Friday and couple of hours in Saturday or public holidays in major cities including Kathmandu and Pokhara. Keep enough change money in local currency for shopping, taxi or personal expenses. However all major Hotels, Restaurants, Travel / Tour agencies, Airlines accepts credit card or travel cheque, but small establishments will not accept them.
There are several ATM machines available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and some other main cities, where you can get cash in Nepali Rupees against your card. You can also get Nepali currency from banks against your card or travel cheque, though certain percent of processing charge is applicable.If you are traveling via India, you can use your Indian currency in Nepal. However, INR 500 and 1000 bills are strictly prohibited in Nepal, using is of it may caused punishable offence.
While you are going for longer trip / trekking make sure you have enough cash on local currency for your personal expenses or emergencies. Ask your operator or guide about the amount you may needed.