Are you planning a trip to Nepal and questioning whether Tipping is mandatory in Nepal? No, tipping in Nepal is not mandatory but it is common practice in Nepal that tourists show their appreciation for good service.
| Service | Suggested Tipping Amount |
|---|---|
| Restaurants and Cafes | NPR 50 to NPR 100 |
| Bellboys (Hotels) | NPR 50 to NPR 100 per bag |
| Housekeeping Staff (Hotels) | NPR 100 per day |
| Tour Guides & Drivers | NPR 500 to NPR 1000 per person per day |
| Airport Pick-up & Drop-off | NPR 100 to NPR 200 |
| Trekking Guides | NPR 2000 to NPR 5000 per person (short treks) |
| Trekking Porters | NPR 2000 to NPR 5000 per person (short treks) |
| Trekking Guides | NPR 5000 to NPR 10000 per person (long treks) |
| Trekking Porters | NPR 5000 to NPR 10000 per person (long treks) |
However, it’s important to know more about how much money you should tip in this country. Learn everything about tipping for porters, and guides, in restaurants & cafes, hotels, etc.
Tipping in Nepal Guide with Amount
Tipping in Nepal is not something you have to do, but it’s a kind gesture that is greatly appreciated.
Nepali people are generally humble and won’t ask you for a tip, but they will be grateful if you give one.
The amount you give as a tip will depend on how much money you can afford and the quality of service you received.
1. Restaurants and Cafes
If you are around cafes and restaurants in Nepal to taste Nepalese food or anything then you can tip them off NPR 50 to NPR 100 in restaurants and cafes. If restaurants include extra service charges in the bill already then tipping off is not necessary in such cases.
2. Hotels (Bellboy & Housekeeping)
If a bellboy helps you carry your luggage to your room, it’s a nice gesture to give them a tip. Typically, a tip of NPR 50 to NPR 100 per bag is appropriate.
Additionally, you can show appreciation to the housekeeping staff for their service by leaving a tip of around NPR 100 per day. Tipping is a way of thanking the staff for their efforts and making your stay more comfortable in the hotel.
3. Tour Guide & Driver
If you hire a tour guide and private driver for a long ride, it is a good idea to show your appreciation to the guide and driver by giving them a tip at the end of the trip. A suitable amount for a tip would be around NPR 500 to NPR 1000 per person per day.
For pick-up and drop-off services at the airport, it is recommended to give a tip of NPR 100 to NPR 200. Tipping is a way of acknowledging the driver’s efforts in safely taking you to your destination.
4. Trekking Guides & Porters
Nepal is famous for trekking and if you are on a guided trek then it’s best to tip at the end of your trek. You may have to hire porters too for your family trek or personal trek so, it’s best to tip them depending on the quality of service you receive.
For a short trek, it’s recommended to tip around NPR 2000 to NPR 5000 per person, while for longer treks, you can tip around NPR 5000 to NPR 10000 per person.
When Not To Tip in Nepal?
There are several situations when you don’t want to tip.
- The first rule is that tipping is strictly prohibited in government offices. Also, it’s not appropriate to tip in banks and other official places.
- If you find the service poor and unsatisfactory.
- If the person providing service states that they do not accept tipping.
- If the service is already included with extra charges.
- If you don’t want to offend the locals and are unsure about the amount to tip.
FAQs
Is tipping mandatory in Nepal?
Tipping in Nepal is not mandatory, but it is highly appreciated if you are able to contribute to the financial well-being of those providing services.
How much do you tip porters and guides in Nepal?
In Nepal, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to tipping porters and guides. It’s up to you to decide how much to tip based on the level of service you received and your budget. For a short trek, it’s recommended to tip around NPR 2000 to NPR 5000 per person, while for longer treks, you can tip around NPR 5000 to NPR 10000 per person.
Can you tip in USD in Nepal?
Yes, you can tip in USD in Nepal as there are many exchange counters and even banks can exchange it. However, if possible always tip in Nepalese Rupees for convenience.
Should I bring cash to Nepal?
Yes, bringing cash into Nepal is a good idea as it can help you avoid commissions and other fees related to exchange rates. While it’s possible to exchange foreign currency in Nepal, the exchange rates may not be as favorable, and you may end up paying more in commissions and fees.
Bottom Line
It’s important to remember that the tipping guidelines in Nepal are just suggestions and not mandatory. It’s up to you to decide how much to tip based on the quality of service you received and your personal budget.
Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for good service and to support the local community.
So, be fair and considerate when tipping, and keep in mind that it’s not just about the amount of money, but also the gesture of gratitude.
In summary, when in Nepal, it’s recommended to tip around
- NPR 50 to NPR 100 in restaurants and cafes.
- NPR 50 to NPR 100 per bag for bellboys in hotels.
- NPR 100 per day for housekeeping staff in hotels.
- NPR 500 to NPR 1000 per person for tour guides and drivers.
- NPR 2000 to NPR 10000 per person for trekking guides and porters.
Thank you for the very useful information here. Clear and easy to understand.