Money in Cambodia
Cambodia uses the Cambodian riel. Here is how to pay there, whether to tip, and what common amounts are worth.
- Currency
- KHRCambodian riel
- Symbol
- ៛
- Tipping
- Appreciated
Paying in Cambodia
US dollars are used widely alongside riel, with small change given in riel.
- Cards
- Limited
- Cash
- The economy runs largely on US dollars, and riel is usually given as change for amounts under US$1. Keep small riel for change, since small villages and shops may not have change for large bills.
- ATMs
- ATMs are in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, the international airports and most big towns, and they dispense US dollars only (per Wendy Wu Tours). Overseas withdrawal fees can be very high, so withdraw as few times as possible.
- Foreign currency
- US dollars are widely accepted and used in many transactions, ideally in notes of US$20 or less.
- Exchanging money
- US dollars are widely exchangeable, and other currencies are generally only recognised at banks and airports. Avoid exchanging at the airport unless you have pre-ordered.
- Watch out for
- Wendy Wu Tours advises bringing US notes of US$20 or less, since locals often refuse higher denominations. World Travel Guide says importing or exporting local currency is prohibited.
Tipping in Cambodia
Tipping is never compulsory, but guides and drivers are usually tipped, often in US dollars. Round up restaurant bills and use small riel notes for taxis and tuk-tuks.
Appreciated: Tipping isn't required, but a tip or rounding up is welcome.
Sources checked: Wendy Wu Tours, Bamboo Travel, World Travel Guide, Indochina Tour, Jacada Travel, Sonasia Holiday.
Convert to and from KHR
Quick reference
| Amount | USD | EUR | GBP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4,087 KHR | 4,578 KHR | 5,484 KHR |
| 10 | 40,865 KHR | 45,781 KHR | 54,836 KHR |
| 50 | 204,326 KHR | 228,904 KHR | 274,178 KHR |
| 100 | 408,651 KHR | 457,809 KHR | 548,356 KHR |
| 500 | 2,043,255 KHR | 2,289,043 KHR | 2,741,781 KHR |
What each amount is worth in KHR. Mid-market rates from 2 November 2026, 17:00 UTC.
Common questions
What currency does Cambodia use?
Cambodia uses the Cambodian riel (KHR).
Do you need to tip in Cambodia?
Appreciated. Tipping is never compulsory, but guides and drivers are usually tipped, often in US dollars. Round up restaurant bills and use small riel notes for taxis and tuk-tuks.
Can you pay by card in Cambodia?
Limited. The economy runs largely on US dollars, and riel is usually given as change for amounts under US$1. Keep small riel for change, since small villages and shops may not have change for large bills.
Are there ATMs in Cambodia?
ATMs are in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, the international airports and most big towns, and they dispense US dollars only (per Wendy Wu Tours). Overseas withdrawal fees can be very high, so withdraw as few times as possible.