HOW TO TIP IN NEPAL

In the U.S., tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more. The question `when?` or `how much?` can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. 

This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully, using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis. 

Tipping is pretty common and appreciated in Nepal, but it is not mandatory. In the tourism industry, tipping for good service in restaurants and to acknowledge a great, knowledgeable tour guide is a wonderful way to show your appreciation. Tipping 5-10% at local restaurants is a good rule of thumb, and tipping a tour guide 10-15% for a full day. Tips in the country contribute to the livelihood of the locals serving you, and embracing these practices shows your appreciation for positive cultural exchanges. 

Currency: Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Nepalese Rupee? 

The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Nepalese Rupees upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the main cities.

US dollars and EUR may be accepted for tipping in Nepal.   

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

Tipping 5-10% of the total bill in local currency at restaurants in Nepal is appreciated if the service is good. Sometimes, a service charge might be included; check your bill first before tipping. 

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Teahouses and homestays are popular in Nepal. Tipping them 100-200 NPR per night is a kind gesture to show your appreciation for the host for their hospitality. Tipping porters 1000-1500 NPR is a general rule at hotels in the country. 

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

Rounding up the fare or leaving a little extra change for the taxi driver is a nice gesture for great service. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory. 

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

Tipping trekking and tour guides on your trip to Nepal is one of the most common practices, as this is one of the main activities. Tip the guides 1500-2000 per day, and drivers around 500-1000 per day. Tipping is expected in this line of work as it's a significant part of their income. 

Final Thoughts:

Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. Unlike in the U.S., waiters are paid a living wage, and the expectations for tipping are lower in Romania than in America. This is also true for hotel staff, though if you encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager. 

When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.