Travel Money in India: Essential Tips for Smart Spending

India is a mix of modern cities and ancient villages, and your money needs to work everywhere. Whether you’re hopping on a train, eating street food, or booking a hotel, the right cash strategy saves time and hassle.

First thing: the Indian rupee (INR) is the only legal tender. Pounds, dollars, or euros won’t buy you a chai unless the shop accepts cards. Exchange a small amount before you land – a few hundred rupees help with taxis or tips right away.

Best Ways to Get Rupees

Airport kiosks are convenient but charge high fees. Your best bet is a reputable bank or an authorized money changer in the city. Look for the RBI logo or ask your hotel for a trusted partner.

ATMs are everywhere in major towns and often give the best rate. Use a debit card with no foreign transaction fee – many Indian banks waive the surcharge if you withdraw over 2,000 INR. Remember to check the daily limit; some ATMs cap at 10,000 INR.

If you rely on credit cards, choose Visa or Mastercard. They’re accepted in hotels, big restaurants, and online bookings. Pay in INR to avoid dynamic currency conversion, which adds a hidden markup.

Budgeting Basics

Set a daily cash budget: 1,500–2,000 INR for a comfortable day in most cities, less in smaller towns. Split this amount: 70% in cash for local transport, markets, and small eateries; 30% on a card for bigger expenses.

Track your spend with a simple note app. It’s easy to lose track when everything feels cheap, but a quick log prevents surprise deficits at the end of your trip.

Watch out for scams: street money changers offering “best rates” often give counterfeit notes. Always count your cash in front of the changer and check the watermark. If a deal sounds too good, walk away.

Finally, keep a backup plan. Carry a second card in a separate bag and store an emergency cash stash in a hidden pocket. In case an ATM is out of service, you’ll still have options.

With these tips, handling money in India becomes a smooth part of your adventure rather than a stress point. Stay alert, plan ahead, and enjoy the journey.