The Guide to Cambodian Currency: Dollars & Riel
1,000 Riel note
Cambodia's unique dual-currency system, where the US dollar (USD) and the Cambodian riel (KHR) coexist, can be perplexing for first-time visitors. Understanding the nuances of this system is key to a seamless and savvy travel experience. This guide will help you master the art of currency in the Kingdom of Wonder.
4,000 riel equals approximately a dollar.
The Dollar and the Riel: A Financial Duet
The US dollar is the de facto currency for most significant transactions in Cambodia, a legacy of the UN's presence in the 1990s, which helped stabilise the post-conflict economy. You will use USD for everything from hotel bookings and upscale dining to tour packages and the iconic Angkor Wat entrance fee.
The Cambodian riel, however, is the lifeblood of daily local commerce. It is officially pegged at approximately 4,100 KHR to 1 USD. For ease of calculation, most day-to-day transactions are rounded to a convenient 4,000 KHR per dollar. This is the rate you will most often encounter for street food, tuk-tuk rides, and market purchases. The riel is predominantly used for smaller expenses and as change for payments made in USD.
The local Cambodian currency comes in 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2,000, 5000, 10,000, 50,000, 100,000 and, more recently, 200,000 denominations (notes).The Condition of Your Cash: Crisp $ Notes Wanted!
A crucial tip for travellers is to arrive with a supply of crisp, clean, and recent US dollar bills. Cambodian vendors, from small shops to larger establishments, can be particular about the condition of USD notes. Just as vendors can refuse worn notes, you can also politely decline to accept any heavily damaged or marked bills as change. Don't hesitate to request a cleaner note; these situations are common and typically resolved with a friendly smile.
This isn't just a local quirk. As the USD is not printed in Cambodia, banks and money transfer services require clean notes for machine counting and processing. While financial institutions have recently become slightly more lenient in accepting older bills, the preference for pristine currency remains strong in everyday transactions. To avoid any inconvenience, ensure your dollars are in excellent condition.
USD=> Hotels, restaurants, tours, major purchases. Bring new or like-new bills ($10, $20, $50). Avoid any notes with marks, tears, or excessive wear. Avoid the big notes, because locals won’t have enough change for you ($100 and over).
KHR=> Street food, local markets, tuk-tuks. Always have a stash of small Riel notes. Most ATMs dispense USD, but ABA Bank is a reliable option for withdrawing riel directly, saving you from carrying large USD bills. Look around local markets where you can find trusted change offices.
1 dollar is usually considered equivalent to 4,000-4,100 riels
Staying Sharp: Smart Currency Practices
While Cambodia is a safe and welcoming country, it's wise to be aware of potential currency-related issues:
Change Scrutiny: When paying in USD, you will often receive your change in a mix of USD and riel. Always take a moment to count your change to ensure it is correct. Take your time, then smile to get a smile back.
Bill Swapping: In some less reputable establishments, there have been reports of genuine USD bills being swapped for counterfeits. Stick to well-regarded businesses, especially for services like massages.
ATM Use: Rumours of ATMs dispensing fake currency are highly unlikely to be true, as machines log the serial numbers of all notes. For peace of mind and the option to withdraw riel, favour ATMs from established banks like ABA.
By carrying a mix of pristine US dollars for larger expenses and Cambodian riel for daily life, and by staying mindful of your transactions, you'll navigate the Kingdom's currency landscape with confidence. Enjoy the rich culture, breathtaking temples, and the warm hospitality of the Cambodian people. To ensure your trip is as safe as it is memorable, especially when handling cash, be sure to read our complete guide to safety in Cambodia.
