Pakistan is a cash-heavy economy, and card machines become rare once you head north. This currency exchange guide for Pakistan explains the rupee, where to exchange money, what to bring, and how to avoid poor rates. Last checked: October 2026. Rates and rules change, so check a live rate before you exchange.
Quick answer: how should tourists get rupees?
Use an ATM or a licensed exchange company, compare the rate with the live market rate, and avoid informal street changers. Exchange only a small amount at the airport, then do the rest in the city. Carry cash and a backup card, and withdraw before you head into the mountains.
Currency quick facts
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Currency | Pakistani rupee (PKR, also written Rs) |
| Regulator | State Bank of Pakistan |
| Best places | Licensed exchange companies, then banks |
| Airport counters | Convenient, but rates are often less favourable |
| Cards | Accepted in cities and larger shops; cash is still needed widely |
| Exchange rate | Changes daily; check a live converter or State Bank of Pakistan data |
Where to exchange money
Licensed exchange companies
Found in major cities and at some airports, these are authorised by the State Bank of Pakistan and often give competitive rates. Look for official authorisation signs and ask for a receipt.
Banks
Major banks exchange foreign currency. Rates may be slightly less favourable, but banks are secure. Most are open Monday to Friday, with some open on Saturday mornings.
Airport counters
Handy on arrival. Exchange only what you need for your first day, since rates in the city are often better.
ATMs
Often the simplest option. See our ATM and cash guide for limits, fees and the cash withdrawal tax.
What to bring
US dollars, euros and pounds are the easiest to exchange. Bring clean, undamaged notes, because torn or marked notes may be refused. Avoid informal street changers, however good the offer looks.
How much cash to carry
It depends on your route and budget. Carry enough to cover cash-only areas plus a buffer. The north, including Hunza and Skardu, runs mostly on cash and has few working machines, so withdraw or exchange before you go. Keep a mix of small notes for taxis, rickshaws, tips and small shops.
Travel tips
- Keep exchange receipts in case you convert rupees back before you leave.
- Do not exchange everything at the airport.
- Carry a card as backup.
- Check our travel cost guide, e-Visa guide and SIM card guide.
Banknotes and payment methods
Rupee banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 and 5,000. Cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shopping centres in cities such as Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. Local mobile wallets such as Easypaisa and JazzCash are popular with residents, while international wallets have limited acceptance. In smaller towns and mountain areas, cash is essential. See our ATM and cash guide for what to withdraw before you leave each city.
Fees to watch for
- Some ATMs charge a fee per withdrawal, and reported amounts are in the range of PKR 200 to 500, so withdraw larger amounts less often.
- Your own bank may add a foreign transaction fee, and some card payments carry a surcharge, so check before you travel.
- Airport counters and hotel desks usually give weaker rates than licensed exchange companies in the city.
Rules for bringing cash in and out
Visitors can bring foreign currency into Pakistan, but cash or equivalent instruments above USD 10,000 must be declared to customs. When leaving, the limit for taking out foreign currency is also USD 10,000 or its equivalent, and sources report a small cap on taking rupees out of the country, so spend or convert your rupees before you leave. Customs rules change, so check the Federal Board of Revenue guidance before you travel. Exchange companies are regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan and need to see ID, so carry your passport.
Plan your cash by route
Cities are easy, but the mountains are cash-heavy. Withdraw in Islamabad, Gilgit or Skardu before heading to Hunza, Naran, Chitral or Swat, and carry a spare supply of small notes. See our Pakistan travel cost guide for daily budgets, our Pakistan travel FAQ for tipping and bargaining, and the e-Visa guide before you go.
Currency exchange guide for Pakistan FAQs
What is Pakistan’s currency?
The Pakistani rupee (PKR), regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan.
Where should I exchange money?
Licensed exchange companies or banks. Use airport counters only for small amounts.
Can I use cards in Pakistan?
Yes in cities and larger shops, but cash is needed in many places, especially in the north.
How much cash do I need in northern Pakistan?
More than in the cities, because machines and exchange counters are scarce. Withdraw before heading into the mountains.
Should I exchange money before I arrive?
It is not necessary. Rupees are easy to get on arrival, and rates at home are often worse.
Final thoughts on currency exchange in Pakistan
Compare rates, keep receipts, and carry cash plus a backup card. Check live rates and any rule changes before you travel.