There are ATMs in most towns; carry cash as backup. Mastercard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit cards.

ATMs are widespread and Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards. ATMs at Axis Bank, Citibank, HDFC, HSBC, ICICI and State Bank of India recognise foreign cards. Other banks may accept major cards (Visa, Mastercard etc).

It is advisable to check whether your card can access banking networks in India and ask for details of charges before your trip.

Credit cards are accepted at a growing number of shops, upmarket restaurants, and midrange and top-end hotels, and they can usually be used to pay for flights and train tickets. MasterCard and Visa are the most widely accepted cards. Cash advances on major credit cards are also possible at some banks.

Currency

The Indian rupee (₹) is divided into 100 paise (p), but only 50 paise coins are legal tender and these are rarely seen. Coins come in denominations of ₹1, ₹2, ₹5 and ₹10 (the 1s and 2s look almost identical); notes come in ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹500 and ₹2000.

Travellers Cheques

Travellers cheques are becoming harder and harder to change, as credit cards become more widely accepted. They are often more hassle than they are worth. All major brands are accepted, but some banks may only accept cheques from American Express (Amex) and Thomas Cook. Euros, pounds sterling and US dollars are the safest currencies, especially in smaller towns.