Top 10 Digital Payment Apps in Nepal for Easy Transactions (2025 Guide)

With Nepal’s growing digital economy and widespread smartphone use, digital payment apps have become essential tools for daily financial transactions. These apps allow users to send money, pay bills, recharge mobiles, and shop online without the hassle of cash. In this comprehensive guide, we introduce the top 10 digital payment apps in Nepal for 2025 that provide fast, secure, and convenient services for millions of users.

Why Are Digital Payment Apps Popular in Nepal?

Nepal has seen a rapid shift toward cashless transactions due to multiple factors:

• Convenience: Payments are processed instantly, saving time and effort.
• Security: Encrypted transactions and authentication features help protect users.
• Accessibility: Apps enable users to pay from remote areas without needing physical bank visits.
• Offers & Discounts: Many apps provide cashback and promotions to encourage use.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Payment App

• User Experience: Easy navigation and simple interface matter.
• Transaction Variety: Support for mobile recharge, bill payment, fund transfers, and QR payments.
• Security Measures: PIN codes, OTPs, and biometric authentication increase safety.
• Fees and Charges: Low or no transaction fees benefit users.
• Bank Partnerships: Strong integration with banks allows smooth wallet top-ups and transfers.

1. eSewa – Nepal’s Pioneer Digital Wallet

Background: Founded in 2009, eSewa was the first digital wallet in Nepal and remains the most widely used. It has helped pioneer the country’s digital payment ecosystem by integrating with multiple banks and service providers.

How to Register and Get Started with eSewa

1. Download the eSewa app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app and tap on “Register.” Enter your mobile number and create a secure password.
3. Verify your mobile number via OTP sent through SMS.
4. Once registered, log in using your credentials.
5. Link your bank account or top up your eSewa wallet using available methods such as bank transfer, cash deposit at agent locations, or through ConnectIPS.

Unique Features and Benefits

• Supports mobile recharge, utility bill payments, online shopping, ticket booking, and QR code payments.
• Wide acceptance among merchants, online stores, and government services.
• Integration with over 40 banks for wallet top-up and withdrawal.
• Offers cashback, discounts, and loyalty points to users.

Fees and Charges

Most payments are free of charge. However, some bank withdrawal transactions may incur nominal fees (typically around NPR 10-20).

Security Measures

Uses PIN protection, OTP for each transaction, and end-to-end encryption to secure user data.

Customer Support

24/7 customer care via phone and email, with quick resolution of issues through their official support channels.

2. Khalti – User-Friendly Wallet with Attractive Offers

Background: Khalti was launched in 2017 and quickly gained popularity due to its modern interface and aggressive cashback promotions. It is now one of the top digital wallets in Nepal.

How to Register on Khalti

1. Download Khalti app from app stores.
2. Register using your mobile number and create a password.
3. Verify your number via OTP.
4. Add funds to your wallet by bank transfer, cash-in at agents, or connect your bank account.

Key Features

• Recharge mobile phones instantly.
• Pay for electricity, internet, water, and other utilities.
• Shop online at partner merchants.
• Event ticket bookings and government payments.
• Generous cashback offers and promotional discounts.

Fee Structure

Most transactions are free, but some withdrawals to bank accounts may have a small fee. Check latest terms on the Khalti website.

Security and Support

PIN and OTP authentication for all transactions. Responsive customer support via phone, email, and social media.

3. IME Pay – Combining Remittance and Mobile Payments

Background: IME Pay is part of the IME Group, one of Nepal’s largest remittance companies. It bridges international money transfers with domestic digital payments, offering convenience to Nepalis receiving funds from abroad.

How to Register and Use IME Pay

1. Download the IME Pay app on Android or iOS devices.
2. Sign up with your mobile number and verify with OTP.
3. Link your bank account or load your wallet at IME agent locations.
4. Use the app to send money, pay bills, recharge phones, or make merchant payments.

Unique Features

• Seamless integration of international remittance and local payments.
• QR code payments accepted at multiple merchants.
• Bill payments including electricity, water, and internet.
• Multiple language support including Nepali and English.

Fees and Charges

Many transactions are free, but remittance services and some withdrawals may incur fees depending on the amount and destination.

Security Features

Uses multi-factor authentication, PIN codes, and real-time transaction alerts to secure user funds.

Customer Service

Active support channels through phone, email, and social media platforms.

4. ConnectIPS – Nepal’s Interbank Payment System

Background: ConnectIPS is developed by Nepal Clearing House Limited (NCHL) and is an interbank payment platform directly linked to users’ bank accounts. It is supported by the government to promote digital payments.

How to Use ConnectIPS

1. Visit the ConnectIPS website or download the app.
2. Register using your PAN number and linked bank account details.
3. Authenticate your identity via OTP or biometric methods.
4. Make instant interbank fund transfers, pay utility bills, or receive payments.

Advantages

• Direct bank-to-bank transfer with minimal fees.
• Supports bulk payments and government collections.
• Highly secure due to banking-level safeguards.

Charges

Transaction fees are usually very low (NPR 5 to NPR 20) compared to traditional banking methods.

Security

Strong encryption, OTP verification, and compliance with Nepal Rastra Bank standards.

Customer Support

Help desk available via email and phone, plus FAQs on the official website.

5. Nabil ePay – Trusted Banking App from Nabil Bank

Background: Nabil Bank’s official app integrates wallet and banking services, offering a safe environment for payments and account management.

How to Register and Use

1. Download Nabil ePay app and create an account.
2. Link your Nabil Bank account or top up the wallet.
3. Pay bills, transfer funds, and shop at partner merchants.

Features

• Secure wallet with bank-backed funds.
• Instant utility and telecom bill payments.
• QR code payments accepted widely.

Fees

Many services are free, but check bank-specific terms for withdrawal charges.

Security

Uses bank-level encryption, PIN, and biometric login.

Support

24/7 customer care via phone and branch support.

6. Prabhu Pay – Simple and Reliable Payment Wallet

Background: Prabhu Pay focuses on simplicity and reliability with support for common digital transactions.

Getting Started

1. Download the app from official stores.
2. Register with your phone number.
3. Top up your wallet or link bank accounts.
4. Start payments and transfers.

Highlights

• Fast mobile recharge and bill payments.
• Accepted at multiple online and offline merchants.
• Security with PIN and OTP.

Charges

Generally free with nominal withdrawal fees.

Customer Service

Support through email and helpline.

7. Global IME Pay – Leading Remittance and Wallet Solution

Background: Global IME Pay is operated by Global IME Bank and is popular among Nepalis who regularly receive remittance from abroad. It combines international money transfers with a local digital wallet.

How to Register and Use Global IME Pay

1. Download the Global IME Pay app from app stores.
2. Sign up using your mobile number and verify with OTP.
3. Link your bank account or load your wallet at designated agents.
4. Use it to send money, pay bills, recharge mobile, or shop online.

Unique Features

• Seamless remittance transfers into wallet.
• Supports QR payments and merchant payments.
• Bill payment and recharge facilities.

Fees and Charges

Nominal fees for remittance withdrawal; most other payments are free.

Security

Multi-level authentication and real-time transaction alerts ensure safety.

8. Ncell Connect Money – Telecom-Based Payment Solution

Background: Ncell Connect Money links telecom services with digital payments, allowing users to recharge mobile phones and pay bills directly from their wallets.

How to Use Ncell Connect Money

1. Download Ncell Connect Money app.
2. Register with your Ncell mobile number and verify.
3. Top up wallet via bank transfer or agent locations.
4. Make payments, recharge, and transfer funds easily.

Key Features

• Mobile recharge for Ncell and other operators.
• Bill payments and merchant payments.
• Easy wallet top-ups and transfers.

Fees

Minimal charges on certain transfers; most payments are free.

9. IME Remit Mobile Wallet – Fast Remittance and Payment Service

Background: IME Remit Mobile Wallet specializes in facilitating quick receipt of remittance funds from abroad and local wallet payments.

Getting Started

1. Download the IME Remit app.
2. Register and verify your phone number.
3. Receive remittance directly into your wallet.
4. Use wallet balance for payments or withdraw to bank accounts.

Features

• Quick remittance processing.
• Wide acceptance at merchants.
• Bill payment and recharge.

Fees

Remittance-related fees apply; local transactions are mostly free.

10. Fonepay – The QR Payment Revolution

Background: Fonepay is Nepal’s first interoperable QR code payment platform, enabling users to pay multiple merchants and services with a single app.

How to Use Fonepay

1. Download the Fonepay app or use partner bank apps supporting Fonepay QR.
2. Register using your bank account or wallet details.
3. Scan merchant QR codes to pay instantly.
4. Check transaction history and balances easily.

Features

• Works across multiple banks and wallets.
• Fast QR code scanning payments.
• Wide merchant acceptance nationwide.

Fees

Very low or no fees for payments; charges may apply for some bank transfers.

Comparison Table of Top 10 Digital Payment Apps

App Name	Registration Ease	Bank Integration	Services Offered	Security Features	Fees & Charges	Popularity
eSewa	Easy	Yes	Recharge, Bill Pay, Remittance	PIN, OTP, Encryption	Mostly free	Very High
Khalti	Easy	Yes	Recharge, Bill Pay, Shopping	PIN, OTP	Mostly free	High
IME Pay	Moderate	Yes	Remittance, Bill Pay, QR Pay	Multi-factor Auth	Some fees on remittance	High
ConnectIPS	Moderate	Yes (Direct)	Interbank Transfer, Bill Pay	Bank-grade Encryption	Low fees	Medium
Nabil ePay	Easy	Yes	Bill Pay, QR Pay	Bank-level Security	Low fees	Medium
Prabhu Pay	Easy	Yes	Recharge, Bill Pay	PIN, OTP	Mostly free	Medium
Global IME Pay	Moderate	Yes	Remittance, Recharge, Bill Pay	Multi-factor Auth	Some fees	Medium
Ncell Connect Money	Easy	Yes	Mobile Recharge, Bill Pay	PIN, OTP	Low fees	Medium
IME Remit	Moderate	Yes	Remittance, Bill Pay	Multi-factor Auth	Fees on remittance	Medium
Fonepay	Easy	Yes	QR Payments, Bill Pay	Bank-grade Security	Very low fees	Growing

How to Use Digital Payment Apps Safely in Nepal

With the rise of digital transactions, security is paramount. Follow these tips to keep your payments safe:

• Never share your OTP or PIN: These are personal and meant to secure your account.
• Use strong passwords: Combine letters, numbers, and symbols and change regularly.
• Enable biometric authentication: Use fingerprint or face recognition if your app supports it.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi: Use secure networks when making payments.
• Update apps regularly: Developers release security patches and feature updates.
• Verify merchant details: Confirm the recipient before sending money.
• Monitor transactions: Check your account history frequently for suspicious activity.

Case Studies – Digital Payments Changing Lives in Nepal

Meet Ram and Sita, two Nepali citizens whose daily lives have transformed thanks to digital payment apps:

• Ram, a small business owner in Kathmandu, uses eSewa to receive payments from customers without handling cash, reducing theft risk and improving record-keeping.
• Sita, a university student from a rural district, uses Khalti to pay utility bills and mobile recharges remotely, saving her several hours of travel to the nearest town.

These stories illustrate how digital wallets empower users across Nepal with convenience, security, and new economic opportunities.

Government Policies and Future of Digital Payments in Nepal

Nepal’s government and regulatory bodies have been actively promoting digital payment adoption as part of the national strategy to build a cashless economy. Here are some key points:

• Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Guidelines: NRB has issued regulations to ensure security, transparency, and interoperability among digital wallets and banking systems. They enforce KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance to prevent fraud and money laundering.
• Financial Inclusion: The government supports digital payments to reach unbanked and underserved populations, especially in rural areas where physical bank branches are limited.
• Promoting QR Payments: NRB actively encourages banks and wallets to adopt interoperable QR code standards, making merchant payments easier and more widespread.
• Taxation & Digital Transactions: Authorities are working to integrate digital payments into tax collection systems, improving transparency in financial transactions.
• Future Plans: Expansion of digital payment infrastructure, partnerships with telecom providers, and awareness campaigns are ongoing to increase adoption.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in Digital Payment Apps

Despite their benefits, users sometimes face challenges using digital wallets. Here are common problems and solutions:

1. App Crashes or Won’t Open
   - Clear cache/data in app settings.
   - Update the app to the latest version.
   - Restart your phone.
2. OTP Not Received
   - Check network connectivity.
   - Ensure your phone number is correct.
   - Contact customer support if OTP delay persists.
3. Transaction Failed but Money Deducted
   - Check transaction status in the app or bank statement.
   - If unclear, report immediately to the app’s customer service with transaction ID.
4. Unable to Link Bank Account
   - Confirm your bank supports wallet integration.
   - Re-enter bank details carefully.
   - Contact your bank or wallet support.
5. Password or PIN Forgot
   - Use the ‘Forgot Password/PIN’ option in the app.
   - Verify identity via OTP or registered email.
6. Slow Transactions or Delays
   - Could be due to network or server issues.
   - Try during non-peak hours.
   - Contact app support for prolonged delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use multiple digital wallets simultaneously?

Yes, many users maintain accounts on multiple apps to take advantage of different offers and merchant acceptance.

What should I do if I lose my phone?

Immediately inform your wallet provider and bank to freeze accounts. Use ‘Find My Device’ to lock or wipe data remotely.

Are digital wallets accepted everywhere in Nepal?

While acceptance is growing rapidly, some small vendors may still prefer cash. However, urban areas and larger merchants widely accept digital payments.

Can I use digital payment apps without a smartphone?

Some apps offer USSD-based services, but for full features, a smartphone with internet is recommended.

How to top-up my wallet if I don’t have a bank account?

Many wallets allow cash deposits at agent locations or partner shops.

Is it mandatory to link my bank account?

Not always. Some services allow wallet top-ups through cash or other methods without bank linkage.

Can I transfer money from one wallet to another wallet directly?

Depends on the apps. Some support wallet-to-wallet transfers, others require bank transfers.

Conclusion

Digital payment apps are transforming Nepal’s financial landscape by providing a fast, secure, and convenient way to handle money. Whether you’re a student, business owner, or professional, these apps empower you to manage your finances efficiently while contributing to the country’s journey toward a cashless society.

As technology advances and government support grows, digital wallets will become even more integrated into daily life. Start exploring and using these apps today for easy transactions and a smarter financial future!

Thank you for reading! For more guides on personal finance, digital tools, and online earning in Nepal, stay tuned to our blog.