What is the currency of India and what notes are in circulation?

The Indian Rupee (INR), symbol ₹, divided into 100 paise. Currently circulating banknotes are ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200 and ₹500. The ₹2,000 note was withdrawn from circulation by the Reserve Bank of India in May 2023; existing notes can still be exchanged at RBI offices but are no longer issued and increasingly refused at retail. Coins are minted in ₹1, ₹2, ₹5 and ₹10 denominations. The ₹500 note is the highest in active circulation.

Can I buy Indian Rupees before I travel?

No — INR is a partially closed currency under India's Foreign Exchange Management Act. Foreign tourists are not authorised to purchase INR abroad in any meaningful quantity, and the import limit is ₹25,000 in cash for non-residents on arrival. The correct approach is to land in India with USD, EUR, GBP or AUD as a small backup and withdraw INR from an airport bank ATM at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata or wherever you arrive. Every Indian international airport has multiple bank ATMs landside that work reliably with international cards.

What is UPI and can foreign tourists use it?

UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is the dominant payment system in India — roughly 13 billion transactions per month — used by Indians for everything from rickshaws to street vendors to supermarkets via QR-code scanning with apps like PhonePe, Google Pay and Paytm. Foreign tourists can now use UPI through UPI One World, an NPCI International prepaid wallet available at Mumbai (BOM) and Delhi (DEL) international airports on arrival. You preload it with INR and scan QR codes the same way a local would. For trips longer than a few days, especially if you plan to use auto-rickshaws and small restaurants regularly, UPI One World is materially more convenient than carrying cash.

What is a Forex Card and should I get one?

Forex Cards are prepaid travel cards issued by Indian and international banks — HDFC Multicurrency, Axis Bank Forex, Niyo Global, Standard Chartered Multi-currency, ICICI Travel Card. You preload them in INR (or multi-currency for travel onwards) at a fixed exchange rate before or just after arrival, and use them anywhere a Visa or Mastercard is accepted, including ATMs. Total cost is typically lower than international debit/credit card fees plus ATM surcharges, and the locked-in rate protects against exchange volatility. For trips of one week or longer, a Forex Card is the most cost-effective payment instrument.

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Visa and Mastercard contactless cards are accepted at hotels, mid-range and upmarket restaurants, shopping malls, supermarkets, tourist-zone shops and chain stores in major cities. Acceptance drops sharply outside cities and at smaller establishments. American Express has narrower acceptance. Smaller restaurants, neighbourhood shops, auto-rickshaws and street food vendors are usually UPI-only or cash-only. Carry a mix of one international Visa/Mastercard, INR cash from an ATM withdrawal, and ideally a UPI One World wallet for everyday small payments.

Are ATMs reliable for foreign cards in India?

Yes — major bank ATMs (HDFC, SBI, ICICI, Axis, Kotak Mahindra, Punjab National) reliably accept international Visa, Mastercard and Maestro cards. Per-transaction limits are typically ₹10,000-₹25,000; your home bank sets the daily limit and cross-border fee. White-label ATMs run by non-bank operators under RBI license, and ATMs in remote rural areas, are less reliable for foreign cards and may have higher surcharges. Carry two cards from different networks as a backup against rejected transactions.

Is tipping expected in India and how much?

Service charge of 8-10% is automatically added at many urban restaurants and hotels — when it is on the bill, no further tip is needed (the 2022 government advisory made it legally optional for customers to refuse, but in practice it stays on most upmarket bills). Where no service charge is added, ~10% is the convention. Hotel porters: ₹50-100 per service. Housekeeping: ₹100 per night. Tour guides: ₹200-500 per day. Full-day drivers: ₹300-500. Auto-rickshaws and metered taxis: round up to the nearest ₹10. Spa and salon staff: 10-15%.

Can I pay with USD, EUR or other foreign currencies in India?

No — foreign currencies are not accepted for regular retail transactions, and offering USD or EUR at a shop or restaurant will typically be politely declined. A small number of luxury hotels accept USD at unfavourable in-house rates but issue local-currency receipts. Convert to INR via an authorised dealer (RBI-licensed bank or money changer such as Thomas Cook, Centrum or BookMyForex) on arrival, or withdraw via bank ATM. Carry foreign-currency notes in small denominations as a backup, but plan to use INR or a Forex Card for everything.

India

🇮🇳

Phone Code

+91

Capital

New Delhi

Population

1.4 Billion

Native Name

भारत

Region

Asia

Southern Asia

Timezone

Indian Standard Time

UTC+05:30

India is a vast subcontinent of extraordinary contrasts and timeless traditions, where ancient civilizations coexist with cutting-edge technology and modern megacities. From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the tropical beaches of the south, from the arid deserts of Rajasthan to the lush backwaters of Kerala, India encompasses an astounding range of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Home to over 1.4 billion people speaking hundreds of languages and practicing diverse faiths, India is the world's largest democracy and a rapidly growing economic powerhouse. Whether exploring the architectural wonders of the Taj Mahal, experiencing the spiritual energy of Varanasi, trekking through mountain villages, or navigating the vibrant chaos of Delhi or Mumbai, India offers travelers an immersive journey through one of humanity's oldest and most diverse civilizations.

Visa Requirements for India

India has modernized its visa system with the introduction of e-Visa (electronic visa) for citizens of over 160 countries, making entry more accessible for tourists, business travelers, and medical visitors. The e-Visa system allows approved travelers to apply online and receive their visa electronically without visiting an Indian embassy or consulate. E-Tourist Visas are typically valid for stays of 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years depending on the type selected, with varying entry conditions. Citizens of certain countries still require traditional visa applications through Indian diplomatic missions. Business travelers, students, researchers, and those seeking long-term stays must apply for appropriate visa categories with specific documentation. India also offers visa-on-arrival for a limited number of nationalities at designated airports. All travelers should check current requirements based on their nationality, as visa policies and processing times can change. Medical tourists and conference attendees have dedicated e-Visa categories with specific documentation requirements.

Common Visa Types

E-Tourist Visa

30 days, 1 year, or 5 years depending on type selected. Maximum continuous stay varies by visa type.

For tourism, sightseeing, casual visits to friends and relatives, short-duration yoga programs, or recreational activities. Available in 30-day (double entry), 1-year (multiple entry), or 5-year (multiple entry) variants.

E-Business Visa

Up to 1 year with multiple entries. Each stay should not exceed 180 days without registration.

For business meetings, trade fairs, conferences, establishing industrial or business ventures, recruitment, and other commercial activities. Does not permit employment or regular work.

E-Medical Visa

Up to 60 days, triple entry. Medical Attendant Visa linked to primary medical visa holder.

For travelers seeking medical treatment at recognized Indian medical facilities. Includes short-term treatment as outpatient or hospitalization. Up to two attendants can apply for e-Medical Attendant Visa.

E-Conference Visa

Up to 120 days, single entry for conference duration plus buffer time.

For attending conferences, seminars, or workshops organized by government ministries, departments, or recognized organizations in India.

Regular Tourist Visa

Typically 6 months or 1 year with multiple entries, depending on nationality and bilateral agreements.

For nationalities not covered by e-Visa or for longer tourist stays. Applied through Indian embassy or consulate with passport submission.

Student Visa

Duration of the course or 5 years, whichever is less. Extendable by FRRO in India.

For enrollment in recognized Indian educational institutions for academic studies, research, or educational exchange programs. Requires admission letter from institution.

Employment Visa

Initially up to 1 year, extendable. Linked to employment contract duration.

For foreign nationals employed by Indian companies or organizations. Requires employment contract, work permit, and minimum salary threshold requirements.

Research Visa

Up to the research project duration, typically 1-5 years. Requires institutional sponsorship.

For academic researchers, scholars, or scientists working with Indian research institutions, universities, or scientific organizations.

Important Travel Information

E-Visa applications should be completed at least 4 days before arrival. Processing typically takes 72 hours but can vary. Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.

E-Visa holders can enter India through 28 designated airports and 5 seaports only. Verify your entry point is covered before booking flights. Land border crossings require traditional visas.

India requires at least 6 months passport validity from date of arrival and at least two blank pages for stamps.

Travel Overview

India is a continent disguised as a country — a kaleidoscope of 1.4 billion people, 28 states, 22 official languages, 6 major religions, and a 5,000-year civilization that assaults the senses like no other destination on Earth. The Taj Mahal in Agra is just the beginning. The Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) packs Mughal forts, maharaja palaces, chaotic bazaars, and a cuisine that explodes with every bite. Rajasthan dazzles with palaces converted into luxury hotels, the Thar Desert with camps under the stars, the blue city of Jodhpur, and the golden fortress of Jaisalmer. Kerala in the south offers a completely different India: backwaters navigable by houseboat through coconut groves, tropical beaches, ancient Ayurveda, and fish curry in coconut milk. Varanasi on the Ganges — the world's oldest continuously inhabited city — confronts visitors with life, death, and Hindu spirituality in ways nobody forgets: the ghats at dawn with cremation ceremonies, ritual baths, and the nightly Ganga Aarti with thousands of candles floating downstream. Goa blends beaches with Portuguese colonial architecture and Baroque churches (UNESCO). The Himalayas range from Ladakh (the 'Little Tibet' with Buddhist monasteries at 3,500+ meters) to Darjeeling (tea plantations with views of Kangchenjunga) offering trekking, spirituality, and landscapes of staggering grandeur. And then there's the food — every state has its own cuisine, from Hyderabadi biryani to Tamil Nadu dosa, from Gujarati thali to Punjabi dal makhani, with a level of spice complexity that Indian food abroad barely hints at.

Discover India

The Golden Triangle is the classic first-time itinerary and still the most efficient introduction to North Indian history. Delhi alone spans seven historical capitals: the Red Fort and Jama Masjid in Mughal Old Delhi, Humayun's Tomb (the architectural rehearsal for the Taj Mahal), the Qutub Minar complex with the rust-resistant fourth-century Iron Pillar, Lutyens' New Delhi from the British era, and the chaotic streets of Chandni Chowk for paratha and jalebi. Agra holds the Taj Mahal — go at sunrise to avoid the worst of the crowds and get the soft pink-gold light Shah Jahan optimised the building for — plus Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah, the so-called Baby Taj. Jaipur, the Pink City, completes the route with the Hawa Mahal façade, Amber Fort above Maota Lake, the City Palace, and the Jantar Mantar UNESCO observatory. The full circuit takes five to seven unhurried days by train (Shatabdi Express) or private car.

Ways to Experience This Destination

Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur

India's most popular circuit. Delhi: Red Fort (UNESCO), Jama Masjid (India's largest mosque), Humayun's Tomb (precursor to the Taj), Chandni Chowk (chaotic market that's a sensory experience in itself), and India Gate. Agra: the Taj Mahal (arrive at sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds, entry ~1,300 INR for foreigners), Agra Fort, and the Baby Taj (Itimad-ud-Daulah). Jaipur: Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), Amber Fort (ride up by elephant or jeep), City Palace, and jewel and textile markets. Connected by train or car, 5-7 days ideal.

Rajasthan: Palaces, Desert & Color

Rajasthan is the India of the maharajas: Udaipur (Lake Palace floating on Lake Pichola, City Palace), Jodhpur (the blue city with imposing Mehrangarh Fort), Jaisalmer (the golden fortress in the Thar Desert, camel camps under the stars), and Pushkar (sacred lake, camel fair in November). Heritage hotels — palaces and havelis converted into accommodation — offer a lodging experience unique in the world. Thar Desert camel safaris with overnight camping define the Rajasthan experience.

Kerala: Backwaters, Ayurveda & Beaches

Kerala (southwest) is tropical, serene India. The backwaters of Alappuzha (Alleppey) are navigated by houseboat — wooden house-boats gliding through coconut groves, rice paddies, and fishing villages for 1-2 days. Munnar offers tea plantations on endless green hills. Thekkady (Periyar) for elephant spotting in the jungle. Kovalam and Varkala for beaches. Ayurveda is a living tradition in Kerala — 7-21 day retreats with massages, diet, and yoga prescribed by Ayurvedic doctors. Kerala cuisine (appam with stew, fish curry on banana leaf, karimeen) is among India's most refined.

Varanasi & Spirituality

Varanasi (Benares) on the Ganges is India's most intense experience: Hinduism's holiest city where pilgrims bathe in the river at dawn to purify themselves, where cremations at Manikarnika Ghat are a visible part of daily life, where the nightly Ganga Aarti (fire, bells, and chanting ceremony) transforms the ghats into a spiritual spectacle. Boating the Ganges at dawn is one of the most impactful moments of any trip. Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, is 10 km away. Rishikesh (Himalayas) is the world yoga capital.

Himalayas: Ladakh, Darjeeling & Trekking

Ladakh — the 'Little Tibet,' a Union Territory in its own right since 2019 — is studded with Buddhist monasteries clinging to cliffs at 3,500+ metres (Thiksey, Hemis, Lamayuru), Pangong Lake (intense blue at 4,350 metres, the iconic 3 Idiots filming location), and mountain roads crossing some of the world's highest motorable passes. Darjeeling, in West Bengal, offers tea plantations with views of Kangchenjunga (8,586 m, world's third-highest peak) and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (UNESCO Toy Train). Manali and Shimla are former colonial hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. The Markha Valley trek (Ladakh), Hampta Pass crossing, and the Chadar route — walked on the frozen Zanskar River in winter — are legendary.

Money & Currency

₹

Indian Rupee (INR)

Currency code: INR

Practical Money Tips

Indian Rupee (INR) — closed currency: do NOT buy INR before arrival; FEMA caps non-resident import/export at ₹25,000; ₹2,000 note withdrawn by RBI in May 2023; circulating notes ₹10/₹20/₹50/₹100/₹200/₹500; banknote symbol ₹; airport ATMs at IGI Delhi, BOM Mumbai, MAA Chennai, BLR Bengaluru work reliably for Visa/Mastercard withdrawal on arrival

The Indian Rupee (INR, ₹) is a partially closed currency under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act). Foreign tourists cannot legally buy INR abroad in any meaningful quantity, and the import/export limit is ₹25,000 in cash for non-residents. The standard arrival method is therefore an ATM withdrawal at IGI Delhi, BOM Mumbai, MAA Chennai, BLR Bengaluru, or whichever airport you land at — every major Indian airport has multiple bank ATMs landside that accept international Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards. The ₹2,000 note was withdrawn from circulation by the Reserve Bank of India in May 2023; circulating denominations are ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200 and ₹500. Coins exist for ₹1, ₹2, ₹5 and ₹10. Hotels and unauthorised street changers offer poor rates and are best avoided.

ATM withdrawal is the standard arrival routing — major-bank ATMs (HDFC, SBI, ICICI, Axis, Kotak) reliably accept international cards; per-transaction limit typically ₹10,000-₹25,000; daily limit per card varies by bank; carry two different cards as backup; avoid white-label ATMs in remote areas (higher decline rates and fees)

ATMs run by HDFC Bank, State Bank of India, ICICI, Axis, Kotak Mahindra and Punjab National Bank are the most reliable for foreign card withdrawal — every major airport, city centre, railway station and shopping mall has multiple. Per-transaction limits are commonly ₹10,000-₹25,000; your home bank's daily limit and cross-border fee policy decide the rest of the cost. White-label ATMs (operated by non-bank companies under RBI license) and ATMs in small towns or village areas are less reliable for foreign cards and can charge higher surcharges. Carry two different international cards from two different networks (Visa + Mastercard ideally) as a backup against an unrecognised card or a magnetic-stripe issue. ATM cash dispensed on Sunday evenings and during major festivals (Diwali, Holi) can run dry — withdraw in advance.

UPI is the dominant payment rail (~13bn transactions/month) — international tourists can use it via UPI One World/NPCI International; Visa and Mastercard contactless work in malls, hotels, mid-and-upmarket restaurants; Apple Pay availability in India is limited; many smaller restaurants, auto-rickshaws and street food vendors are UPI-only or cash-only; Forex Cards (HDFC Multicurrency, Axis Forex, Niyo) are the cheapest tourist payment instrument

India's payment rail is UPI (Unified Payments Interface) — about 13 billion transactions per month and growing. Indians scan a QR code with PhonePe, Google Pay or Paytm and pay everything from rickshaws to street food to grocery stores via UPI. Foreign tourists can now access UPI through UPI One World, an NPCI International product available at Mumbai (BOM) and Delhi (DEL) airports — load INR onto a prepaid wallet and scan QR codes like a local. Visa and Mastercard contactless work in shopping malls, hotels, tourist-zone restaurants and large supermarkets but acceptance drops sharply outside cities. Apple Pay support in India is limited to specific issuer cards and is not the relevant rail for foreign visitors. The single best tourist instrument is a Forex Card (HDFC Multicurrency, Axis Forex, Niyo Global, Standard Chartered Multi-currency) — preloaded in INR or multi-currency, cheaper than ATM withdrawal fees, accepted everywhere a Visa/Mastercard is.

Service charge of 8-10% is auto-added at many city restaurants (legally optional but commonly applied); tipping baseline is 10% if no service charge included; ₹50-100/day porters and housekeeping, ₹200-500/day guides, ₹300-500/day drivers; auto-rickshaws round up to nearest ₹10; bargaining expected at markets and unmetered rickshaws — fixed prices in malls, supermarkets, restaurants and licensed taxis

Service charge of 8-10% is automatically added at many urban restaurants and hotels, particularly in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Goa and tourist-zone establishments. The Indian government's 2022 advisory declared service charge legally optional for the customer to refuse, but in practice it stays on the bill at most upmarket places. Where service charge is on the bill, you do not need to tip on top. Where it is not, the convention is roughly 10% of the bill. Hotel porters take ₹50-100 per service, housekeeping ₹100 per night, tour guides ₹200-500 per day, and full-day drivers ₹300-500 per day. Auto-rickshaws and metered taxis: round up to the nearest ₹10. Bargaining is expected at street markets, in unmetered auto-rickshaws and at souvenir stalls, and not appropriate at malls, supermarkets, branded restaurants, and licensed taxi services.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions