India's Currency Crisis: How to Cope with It When Traveling in India?

In November 2016, the Indian Prime Minister unexpectedly made an announcement to withdraw high-value 500 and 1,000 rupee banknotes from circulation. That is to say, 86% of the paper currency in India suddenly becomes useless. Since then, queuing for cash has become a national sport in India.

Now, things have improved a little bit. But if you're traveling or about to travel to India, this crisis may also get you into trouble. How to cope with it? Here are some tips for you.

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1. Bring small denomination American notes.

Bringing rupees from abroad is prohibited in India, so you are often advised to have some small denomination American notes with you (especially in this special period). Dollars can be paid to those who are authorized to receive them, for example, money changers and some hotels. Besides, you can tip with American notes most of the time.

2. Exchange the currency at the airport.

Exchanging the currency is the foremost important item you would need as soon as you arrive at the airport because it's much easier for you to gain victory in this national sport. You can find a currency exchange counter with fewer people in line and exchange the currency as much as possible. Always keep in mind: don't accept any denomination higher than 100 rupees.

Moreover, you cannot take rupees out of India officially, so you'd better spend all of them before you leave, or you can change any leftover rupees back into foreign currency.

3. Use your debit and credit cards.

If you have debit or credit cards, use them instead of cash where possible. Credit card is preferred because many Indian vendors do not know how to swipe the debit card and then they will simply tell you that the card is not working. You can use credit cards in a large number of hotels, restaurants, and shops. VISA and MasterCard are accepted in most parts of India.

4. Plan your trip in advance.

Plan your trip in advance so as not to depend on the availability of cash. I have to say that this is a smart move. Simply find a reliable travel operator to tailor-make a holiday for you, and then, they will prepare everything in the tour, including the meals, the tickets, and even the private transportation. If you want to give tips to your guide or driver, you can just use US dollars as I mentioned above.

Now, after reading this article, you'll find the currency crisis is not a hassle for you anymore, won't you? Don't wait to reach our professional travel consultants at trip@odynovotours.com and ask them to make a unique tour!