What Currency Does India Use?

India uses the Indian rupee (INR). UK travellers must pay in rupees—pounds are not accepted.

What Currency Does India Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you’re planning a trip to India from the UK—whether to explore Delhi, relax in Goa, or visit the Taj Mahal—you’ll need to understand the currency used for everyday transactions. India has its own national currency, widely used across all states and regions. This guide explains what currency India uses, how it works in practice, and what UK travellers need to know when spending or exchanging money.

What Is the Official Currency of India?

India uses the Indian rupee as its official currency.

  • Currency name: Indian rupee

  • Currency symbol: ₹

  • ISO code: INR

  • Subunit: 1 rupee = 100 paise (though paise coins are rarely used now)

The Indian rupee is issued and managed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

How Currency Works in Practice

  • All prices—whether in restaurants, shops, or taxis—are listed in rupees (₹)

  • Cash is widely used, especially for street food, tips, auto-rickshaws and smaller shops

  • Credit and debit cards are accepted in mid to high-end restaurants, malls, hotels, and airports

  • ATMs are widely available in cities and towns and dispense INR

  • Mobile wallets (e.g. Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe) are increasingly popular with locals

Rupee denominations include notes of ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2,000 (though the ₹2,000 note is being phased out).

Currency Exchange & Rates

As of 2024, a typical exchange rate is:

  • £1 = ₹100–110 INR (approximate)

Check live exchange rates before your trip and avoid exchanging large amounts at UK airports due to poor rates.

Tips for UK Travellers

  • Bring a travel card (e.g. Starling, Wise, Monzo, Chase) for better exchange rates and fewer fees

  • Withdraw cash from trusted ATMs attached to major banks

  • Avoid exchanging money at airports unless necessary

  • Always pay in INR, not GBP or USD, even if foreign currencies are accepted in tourist areas

FAQs

Can I use pounds in India?
No. GBP is not accepted for transactions. You must use INR (Indian rupees).

Is India a cash economy?
Yes, in many ways. While card and mobile payments are growing, cash is still king in smaller towns, markets, and rural areas.

Can I exchange money in the UK before travel?
Yes, but INR is a restricted currency and may not be widely available at all exchange providers. Many travellers withdraw INR upon arrival in India.