Travelling to India?

Get the best exchange rates for Indian rupees online

Prepare for your Indian adventure with Manor FX. Get the best GBP to Indian rupee exchange rates online, giving you more Indian rupees for your fantastic trip.

Opt for secure delivery to your home or workplace. Or you can collect your travel money from our bureau near Heathrow. Our quick, convenient online ordering system simplifies getting your Indian rupees. Convert pounds to Indian rupees with Manor FX.

Indian travel money

Planning to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of India? Let’s get you ready with valuable information about currency and card payments in India.

Where can you get Indian rupees?

You can get Indian rupees at Manor FX. Unlike major currencies, the Indian Rupee isn’t widely available. You won’t find it at the post office or from banks.

Can you buy Indian rupees in the UK?

Yes. You can buy Indian rupees online from currency providers like us! We’re the best place to buy rupees. We have the best exchange rate for pounds to Indian rupee online. 

Why not avoid the costly airport exchange and have your Indian rupees delivered right to your door before your trip?

Experience effortless currency exchange with Manor FX. Enjoy a straightforward ordering process and competitive rates, ensuring you have more money for your Indian adventure. 

If you’re near Heathrow, you can also visit our bureau for the same great Indian rupee GBP exchange rates.

Should I exchange money before I travel to India?

Yes, exchanging some money before you travel to India is a good idea. This way, you’ll have local currency in your wallet ready for immediate expenses like transport, meals, and small purchases upon arrival.

What is the best currency to bring to India?

The Indian rupee (INR) is your best option when travelling to India. It’s the official currency and widely used.

While some businesses in India may accept US dollars, it’s not guaranteed. Using USD, you might encounter less favourable exchange rates. Stick to Indian rupees for smooth and cost-effective travel.

Can I use my bank card in India?

It depends. Most stores in India do not accept international card payments. 

However, many international hotels, upscale boutiques, large shopping centres, and major supermarkets do. Especially in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

India has introduced contactless payments. You can make purchases by tapping your card on the reader for amounts up to 5,000 INR. For higher amounts, you’ll still need to enter your PIN code.

If you plan to use your card in India, be mindful of currency conversion fees and bank charges. Your bank’s exchange rate from INR to GBP may not be favourable, as banks profit from this.

Contact your bank before using your card for payments in India to prevent them from blocking your card.

Should I use cash in India?

Carrying cash in India is crucial for various transactions. We strongly advise having Indian rupees (INR) on hand during your journey.

Cash is handy for making purchases at local stores, dealing with street vendors and covering taxi fares. You’ll also need cash for public transportation, tips, exploring markets, and dining at local eateries.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in India?

Having some cash with you is a good idea when you’re in India. Many places in Indian cities accept credit and debit cards. Vendors such as taxi drivers, street vendors, and local tour guides often prefer cash for transactions.

Have leftover currency from your trip? Convert Indian rupees for GBP with Manor FX when you return.

How much cash should I bring to India?

India offers travellers a wide range of experiences, and your expenses will vary depending on where and when you visit. You’ll find that bustling urban hubs like Delhi and Mumbai often have a higher price tag. 

Venturing into enchanting, off-the-beaten-path locales like Jaipur or Udaipur can be a budget-friendly alternative.

Here’s a guide for travellers:

Budget-friendly travel:

• Plan to spend around 4,000 to 5,000 Indian rupees (approximately £20-£25) daily for a budget-friendly experience.
• This budget covers essentials like a comfortable hostel, delicious local meals, and transport. It also covers some daily activities, allowing you to enjoy your journey without overspending.

Mid-range comfort:

• If you prefer more comfort, budget approximately 8,000 to 10,000 Indian rupees (around £40-£50) per day.
• This allows you to savour local cuisine and explore exciting activities like temple visits. It also covers some shopping and staying in mid-range accommodations.

Luxurious exploration:

• For a luxurious Indian holiday, set aside about 20,000 to 25,000 Indian rupees (roughly £100-£125) per day.
• This budget provides access to boutique hotel accommodations and seamless travel between cities. You can do a wide range of captivating tours and experiences for this budget.

Note: Prices may rise significantly during major festivals and events. Plan ahead to navigate any potential increases in accommodation and activity costs.

Your Indian travel experience can be enjoyable without straining your budget. With careful planning and a taste for local adventures, you can maximise your journey while staying within your financial comfort zone. 

How can I avoid ATM fees in India?

Avoid ATM fees in India with these suggestions:

• Opt for ATMs from major Indian banks like State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, and HDFC Bank for lower or no fees.
• Withdraw larger amounts less often to minimise the frequency of ATM visits and fees.
• Contact your home bank before your trip. Inquire about partnerships with Indian banks offering their customers free ATM usage.
• Avoid excessive ATM usage by changing currency before your trip with Manor FX. We offer the best Indian rupee rates and doorstep delivery, ensuring you have Indian rupees on hand.

Is life expensive in India?

In India, prices are considerably lower than those in the UK, with the cost of living averaging about 50% less.

A cup of coffee in a café typically sets you back around 50 to 100 Indian rupees. That’s approximately £0.50-£1.

When it comes to dining in India:

• Budget-friendly eateries. At affordable restaurants, you can anticipate spending roughly 200 to 400 Indian rupees (£2 to £4).
• Mid-range dining. A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant typically ranges from 800 to 1,500 Indian rupees (£8 to £15). Remember that prices in popular cities like Delhi or Mumbai may be slightly higher.
• Upscale dining. Fine dining establishments in India offer exquisite experiences. Dishes can range from 2,000 to 5,000 Indian rupees (£20 to £50) or more. These restaurants often serve gourmet cuisine and provide impeccable service.

Is India cheap for tourists?

Yes! India is excellent value for travellers with mixed budgets. Here’s a brief overview:

Local food

Relish local cuisine with dishes like biryani or masala dosa. They can cost as little as 100 to 200 rupees (approximately £1-£2).

Budget-friendly transportation

Public trains and buses are budget-friendly ways to travel. Fares can be as low as 10 to 50 rupees (about £0.10 to £0.50).

Natural beauty accessible to all

Many of India’s incredible natural wonders and historic sites have low or no entrance fees.

In summary, India warmly welcomes travellers with various budgets. With some savvy planning, you can enjoy an incredible Indian adventure without exceeding your budget.

How does tipping work in India?

Tipping in India is common. Here’s a simple guide to tipping:

Restaurants

When dining at restaurants in India, it’s customary to show appreciation by leaving a tip.

Typically, around 10% of the total bill. It’s worth noting that some tourist-focused places might include a service charge. Reviewing your bill is a good practice.

Bars

In bars, a common practice is to express gratitude for the service by leaving a small change or rounding up the bill as a tip. 

Taxis

When taking a taxi in India. Rounding up the fare as a tip is normal practice. For example, if the fare is 500 Indian rupees, rounding it up to 550 Indian rupees is a friendly gesture. 

Guided tours

Showing appreciation for your guide’s service as a tip is polite during guided tours. 

Hotels

Leaving a tip for hotel staff during your stay is a considerate gesture. Tipping practices in India can vary. A common guideline is to offer a tip ranging from 100 to 500 rupees.

Is India safe for tourists? 

It’s important to exercise increased caution when considering travel to India due to civil unrest and the threat of terrorism.

India has experienced terrorist attacks in the past, targeting various public areas, including tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, and restaurants. The threat of such attacks remains a concern.

When travelling in India, stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist locations and crowded public venues. 

Follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media for updates. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on the latest information.

Indian Currency

Indian banknotes

Indian banknotes come in different denominations. They showcase notable figures from the country’s history, scenic landscapes, and cultural icons.

You’ll commonly find 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 2,000 Indian rupee notes in circulation. Take care not to accept counterfeit banknotes.

Indian coins

Indian coins come in various denominations, ranging from 1 rupee to 10 rupees. One side of features national symbols. The other side indicates their denomination and the year of minting. 

Again, it’s wise to exercise caution when dealing with coins to verify their authenticity and condition.

Indian currency import and export regulations

Import of Indian currency (rupees):

• Travellers can import up to 25,000 Indian rupees (INR) per person when entering India. This means you can carry up to 25,000 INR in cash when you arrive in India.
• There are no specific limits on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into India. However, if you are carrying foreign currency equivalent to or exceeding $10,000 USD (or its equivalent in other foreign currencies), you are required to declare it to Indian customs authorities upon arrival.

Export of Indian currency (rupees):

• Indian rupees (INR) cannot be exported from India to foreign countries. This means you cannot take Indian rupees out of India when you leave the country.

Export of foreign currency:

• When you leave India, you can carry foreign currency notes and coins up to the amount you declared when you arrived in India. Any foreign currency in excess of this amount should be declared to Indian customs authorities.
• Retaining exchange receipts or other documentation for foreign currency exchange transactions is essential during your stay in India. This documentation may be required to prove the source of your foreign currency when leaving the country.

Be aware that you cannot import or export Indian and Pakistani currencies.

Ordering Indian rupees online

Exchange pounds to Indian rupees today through Manor FX and have them delivered swiftly and securely to your home or office with Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®.

You can also pick up your currency from our Manor FX travel money shop near Heathrow. Click here to convert GBP into INR now.

Selling back Indian rupees

Need to turn your Indian rupees to pound sterling? Simply use this link to convert Indian rupees to pounds. Click on the ‘sell currency’ option and specify ‘Indian rupee (INR)’.

Manor FX offers the best Indian rupee GPB exchange rate for your unused Indian rupees. Ensure you get the most value from your currency exchange.

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