NRB Forex Rates are the daily currency exchange rates published by Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), Nepal's central bank. These rates are the official reference for banks, money changers, remittance services, and customs — making them critical for travelers, importers, exporters, and Nepalis receiving foreign remittances.
This guide explains how NRB sets daily rates, the difference between buying and selling rates, the unique NPR/INR peg, and how to use forex rates for travel, remittance, and business.
Live NRB Forex Rates — Free
Daily Nepal Rastra Bank exchange rates for 20+ currencies. Buying, selling, and spread tracking.
How NRB Sets Daily Rates
Nepal Rastra Bank publishes indicative exchange rates at 12 PM Nepal Standard Time every working day, based on:
- International forex market rates (USD/EUR/GBP)
- Indian rupee rate (NPR/INR fixed peg)
- Domestic supply and demand
- NRB monetary policy
NPR/INR Peg
The Nepali Rupee is pegged to the Indian Rupee at 1.6 NPR = 1 INR since 1993. Banks may offer slightly different rates but NRB enforces this peg for major transactions.
Buying vs Selling Rate
| Rate Type | Used When | Lower or Higher |
|---|---|---|
| Buying Rate | Bank/changer buys foreign currency from you | Lower |
| Selling Rate | Bank/changer sells foreign currency to you | Higher |
| Spread | Difference (bank's margin) | 2-4% typically |
Example (USD/NPR)
- Buying rate: 132.50 NPR per 1 USD
- Selling rate: 133.20 NPR per 1 USD
- Spread: 0.70 NPR (~0.5%)
When traveling abroad, you "buy" foreign currency — use the selling rate. When returning, you "sell" foreign currency — use the buying rate. Always lower rate against you.
Major Currencies on NRB Rate Sheet
NRB publishes rates for 20+ major currencies daily.
Most Tracked
- USD — for international trade, US remittances
- EUR — European trade and education
- GBP — UK education, business
- INR — pegged at 1.6 NPR (most domestic relevance)
- AED — Dubai, UAE remittances (largest source for Nepal)
- SAR / QAR / KWD — Gulf country remittances
- MYR — Malaysia remittances
- SGD — Singapore
- AUD / CAD — Australia, Canada (study/work)
- JPY / KRW / CNY — Asian trade
Remittance and the Real Rate You Get
Remittance services (Western Union, MoneyGram, Wise, IME, Prabhu Money Transfer) charge:
- Service fee — flat or % of amount
- Hidden margin — they use slightly worse-than-market rates
Best Practices for Sending Money to Nepal
- Compare 3-4 services for total cost (rate + fee)
- Wise and Remitly typically offer better rates than traditional services
- Bank-to-bank transfers (SWIFT) cheapest for large amounts ($1,000+)
- Cash pickup services have higher fees but instant delivery
- Monthly recurring transfers can reduce per-transfer costs
Remittances make up over 25% of Nepal's GDP — more than any other revenue source. Nearly every Nepali family has someone working abroad sending money home.
How to Use the Tool (Step by Step)
- 1
Open NRB Forex Rates Tool
View today's rates for all major currencies in one place.
- 2
Select Currency Pair
Pick the currency you want to convert (USD, EUR, INR, AED, etc.).
- 3
See Buying and Selling Rates
Tool shows both rates with the spread.
- 4
Enter Amount
Type the amount in either currency to see equivalent.
- 5
Compare Banks
For better rates than NRB indicative, check commercial bank or money transfer service rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does NRB publish forex rates?+−
Around 12 PM Nepal Standard Time (UTC+5:45) every working day. Weekend rates carry over from Friday.
Can I exchange currency at NRB rates?+−
NRB rates are indicative. Commercial banks and authorized dealers offer rates close to but not exactly NRB. Money changers may have wider spreads.
Why is NPR pegged to INR?+−
Since 1993, NPR is fixed at 1.6 NPR = 1 INR for currency stability with Nepal's largest trading partner. India accounts for 60%+ of Nepal's trade.
Are NRB rates the same as bank rates?+−
Banks add 1-3% margin on NRB rates. Forex companies and remittance services may add 3-5%. Always compare before exchanging large amounts.
Can foreigners buy NPR with USD?+−
Yes, at airports, banks, and authorized changers. Keep exchange receipts — required for re-converting NPR back to USD when leaving.
How much foreign currency can I carry into Nepal?+−
No upper limit, but amounts over USD 5,000 must be declared at customs. Re-conversion to foreign currency requires original exchange receipts.
Live NRB Forex Rates — Free
Daily Nepal Rastra Bank exchange rates for 20+ currencies. Buying, selling, and spread tracking.
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