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What you will learn from this article?
What currency is used
Where to get cash safely
When to use cards or cash
Avoiding common mistakes
Cambodia’s Dual Currency System
Cambodia utilizing KHR (Riel) as national currency while having a friendly dual currencies system that allow both currencies to be spend separately or both in the same time as a combination. In general rate 1 USD consider as 4000 KHR (Riel) but varies on up-scale restaurant, Mart, Supermarket, Hotel, and so on.
General Usage
Cambodia uses both the US Dollar (USD) and the Cambodian Riel (KHR).
USD is widely accepted for hotels, transport, and dining
Riel is used for small change and local items
$1 equals about 4,000 Riel
Notice: Always carry small USD bills. Large notes can be hard to use or change.
Using ATMs in Cambodia
ATMs are easy to find in cities, airports, and tourist areas. They usually dispense US dollars.
What to know:
Most charge a fee of $4 to $6 per withdrawal
Limits range from $250 to $500 per transaction
Some ATMs also give Riel
Notice: Use ATMs during the day and near banks for safety.
Should You Use Cash or Card?
Here’s a quick guide:
Cash is still the main way to pay in Cambodia. Not all places accept cards, especially outside cities.
| What you are Paying for | Use This | Tuk-tuks and Street Food | Cash |
|---|---|
| Local Restaurant | Cash |
| Local Market / Street Vendor | Cash |
| Hotel and Up-Scale Restaurant | Card/Cash |
| Up-scale Store / Supermarket | Cash / Card Available but not all of them |
Notice: Cash is still the main way to pay in Cambodia. Not all places accept cards, especially outside cities.
Local Tips to Save Trouble
Torn or damaged USD notes may be rejected but not as strict. Read More
Avoid money changers in tourist areas
Bank counters give better rates but time consuming
- Less-Stress with Local Exchanger (Ask a local for the best Exchanger)
ATMs may not work with all cards, so bring a backup
Can You Use Other Currencies?
Only Cambodian Riel and USD are accepted
