ATM/Money InformationMoney and Paying in Bukit Lawang

Cash, Credit Cards, ATMs & Money Changers

Understanding how to manage your money in Bukit Lawang will help you enjoy a smooth and stress-free trip. Below is important information about cash, credit cards, ATMs, and money changers in the area.

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💵 Cash (Highly Recommended)

Cash is still the most important and reliable payment method in Bukit Lawang. Make sure you carry enough cash to pay for local transportation, food, drinks, markets, and small shops.

Large notes such as IDR 100,000 are usually only practical for higher-value purchases. Most small shops and street vendors struggle to provide change, so IDR 50,000 and IDR 20,000 notes are the most useful.

Indonesian Rupiah Denominations

Coins:
IDR 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000

Banknotes:
IDR 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000

⚠️ Please note: Indonesian regulations allow a maximum of IDR 100,000,000 in cash to be brought into the country.

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💡 Cash Tips

• Most guesthouses, homestays, food stalls, and local shops accept cash only
• Some hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but EDC machines may not always work
• Keep a few IDR 500 and 1,000 coins; smaller coins are rarely useful
• Don’t be surprised if small change is replaced with candy at supermarkets
• Always carry some cash for snacks, tips, or spontaneous purchases

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💱 Money Changers

Major currencies such as US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), and Australian Dollar (AUD) can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and licensed money changers.

• Exchange rates change daily
• Old, folded, damaged, or dirty notes may be rejected or exchanged at lower rates
• Clean and crisp banknotes get the best exchange rate, especially for Euros

Money changers usually offer better rates than hotels and are typically open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. We recommend exchanging enough money before arriving in Bukit Lawang, preferably in Medan or at the airport.

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🏧 ATM Machines

There are no ATMs directly in Bukit Lawang village. The nearest ATM facilities are located approximately 10 km away in larger towns.

Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards, including Maestro and Cirrus networks.

🧾 ATM Tips

• ATMs dispense IDR 50,000 or IDR 100,000 notes (clearly marked)
• Daily withdrawal limits usually range from IDR 6,000,000, depending on the machine and your bank
• Machines often dispense cash before returning your card — do not forget your card
• Fees and exchange rates depend on your home bank

Recommended banks for ATM withdrawals:

• Bank BRI
• Bank BCA
• Bank Mandiri
• Bank BNI

For safety, always use ATMs located inside banks, shopping centers, or secured areas.

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💳 Credit Cards

Some hotels and restaurants in Bukit Lawang accept Visa and MasterCard, but availability is limited.

Please note:

• A 3%–5% surcharge is often added to credit card payments
• Credit cards are not accepted at markets, food stalls, or small shops
• Always ask in advance if card payment is available and working

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✅ Important Summary

• Cash is essential in Bukit Lawang
• Bring small denomination Rupiah notes
• Do not rely on ATMs or credit cards
• Exchange money before arriving