Local Currency

It is difficult and often expensive to purchase Indian currency outside the country and it cannot be taken out of India when you leave.  Travellers’ cheques are the best and safest way to carry your money and US dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest to cash although most other currencies are fine.  It is also possible to get cash advances on Visa and Mastercard and access chequing and savings accounts with debit cards.

When changing money it is helpful to ask for some smaller notes to pay for small costs such as porters, rickshaws or refreshments on the train.  Most tips should be in the range of Rs. 5/- to Rs. 15/-.  Often people will not have change and you will end up paying too much.  It is also important to check that notes are not too ripped up or damaged as people will refuse to accept them.  Banks will exchange dirty or torn notes for new ones.  

It is necessary to keep all encashment certificates issued when changing your money.  If you have money left at the end of your stay, you will be able to change this back only at the airport and you must present the encashment certificates.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI  AIRPORT (MUMBAI)  PLEASE CHANGE ENOUGH MONEY TO LAST ONE WEEK.  The rates at the airport are usually quite good and there are several counters. 

It’s impossible for us to tell you how much money will last you one week, and suggest that you have a look at several travel guides for India to get an idea of budgets.  India really is a land of extremes, travel is possible here on everything from $10.00 to $1000.00 and beyond a day.  Most people find between $50.00 US - $150.00 US is enough to get started with, as accommodation etc. is covered at Sangam, however this is just an estimate.