Money, Currency regulations & Credit cards

Nepalese currencyis called Rupees which is divided into 100 paisas and the currency sign isRs.  The paper currency comes in adenomination of 1000, 500, 100, 25, 20, 10, 5, 2 & 1 Rupees.  Though the coins in severaldenominations exist Rs. 10, 5, 2, 1 are the much used denominations.  The currency does not haveconvertibility.

Import of Indiancurrency by any tourist except Indian nationals is strictly prohibited. Aforeign exchange encashment receipt must be obtained for all foreign currencyexchanged and it is possible to exchange back into foreign currency uponproduction of exchange receipts at the time of departure at the airport. Creditcards like American Express, Master& Visa cards are widely accepted at allmajor hotels, shops & restaurants.

Electricity

All cities andtowns in Nepal have electricity and rural electrification.  Village in the upper reaches of themountains are still devoid of electricity and their eleftrification is underwaythrough mini hydel projects are currently underway. The rating is 240-220 voltsAC & 50. Load shedding is frequently experienced in Nepal but mostly duringdry months only.

Holidays

Saturday is theweekly holiday.  The governmetoffice hours are from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM in the summer and 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMin the winter.  Most of the banksand businesses work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Most of the shops and Tibetanrefugee camps remain closed on Saturdays. All museums remain closed on Tuesdaysand government holidays.