Can foreigners bring Indian rupees to India?

No. While you cannot bring Indian rupees into India from another country, you are allowed to bring foreign currencies such as British pounds, US dollars, or Euros. However, passengers normally resident in India who are returning from a visit abroad can bring Indian Currency up to Rs.25,000. 

To ensure that your journey to India goes successfully, check ahead of time to see if your native money can be converted into rupees in India. Major currencies, such as the US dollar, the British pound, and the Euro, may be readily exchanged for Indian rupees. Overall, the USD to INR exchange rate is more advantageous than that of other foreign currencies in India. If your native currency is not one of the world's main currencies, it is suggested that you convert to USD before leaving to take advantage of the advantageous exchange rate.

How to get Rupees in India?

You will find it easy to change major currencies (e.g. US dollars, Pounds sterling, and Euros) into Rupees throughout India. 

• Airport: Upon arrival, you can easily exchange Rupees at the currency exchange booths at the airport. However, it is advisable to exchange only a small amount of rupees for incidentals and transportation to hotels and the city center, where the exchange rate is usually more favorable.
• Hotel: Many hotels offer currency exchange services. Before booking, check if the hotel you are booking into an exchange currency and ask for exchange rate details.
• ATMs: ATMs usually offer the best exchange rates and can be easily found at airports, downtown, or outside banks. Most ATMs accept MasterCard, Visa, Cirrus, and Maestro, and the maximum amount of Indian rupees that can be withdrawn in a single transaction varies from Rs. 2,000/US$24 to Rs. 10,000/US$120. Indian banks charge a fixed fee (usually Rs. 150/$2 to Rs. 300/$4) rather than a percentage, so it's better to withdraw enough for your future needs rather than a smaller amount per transaction.

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