Currency Information For Visitors

India’s official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), symbolized as ₹. Banknotes are available in denominations of ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000, while coins range from ₹1 to ₹10. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and authorized exchange centers. ATMs are widely accessible in urban areas, and most accept international cards. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities, but cash is recommended for rural areas and small vendors. It's advisable to check the current exchange rate before travel and avoid street vendors for currency exchange to ensure fair dealings.

A Guide by Explore Assam

When traveling to Assam, understanding the local currency is essential for a hassle-free experience. Assam, like the rest of India, uses the Indian Rupee (₹) as its official currency. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help visitors navigate currency-related matters during their trip.

Understanding the Indian Rupee (₹)

• Currency Units: The Indian Rupee is divided into 100 paise. However, coins smaller than ₹1 are rarely in circulation.
• Denominations:
  • Coins: ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10.
  • Banknotes: ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000.
• Appearance: Indian currency notes are vibrant and come with security features like watermarks, security threads, and holograms. Familiarize yourself with genuine notes to avoid counterfeit issues.

Currency Exchange

• Authorized Money Exchange Services:
  Currency exchange is available at authorized dealers, banks, and some hotels. Ensure you retain the exchange receipt, as it may be needed to exchange unused rupees back into your home currency.
• ATMs:
  Major cities and towns in Assam have a good network of ATMs that accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, and others). However, carry some cash while traveling to remote areas, as ATMs may be scarce.
• Currency Exchange Rates:
  Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Check rates beforehand to ensure fair conversions.

Payment Options

• Cash:
  While cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas and local markets, carrying smaller denominations is recommended for ease.
• Digital Payments:
  Digital wallets like Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe are extensively used in cities like Guwahati and major towns. Ensure you have a local SIM card or internet access for seamless transactions.
• Credit/Debit Cards:
  Cards are accepted at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants, but less so in small shops or rural areas.

Tipping and Budgeting

• Tipping:
  Tipping is customary but not mandatory. For instance, in restaurants, leaving 5–10% of the bill amount is appreciated.
• Budgeting:
  Assam is budget-friendly, but costs can vary based on travel style. An average daily expense for a mid-range traveler is ₹1500–₹3000, covering food, local transport, and accommodation.

Currency Safety Tips

• Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized dealers to prevent fraud.
• Keep receipts for currency exchanges.
• Use a money belt or secure wallet for cash.
• Notify your bank before international travel to avoid transaction declines.

Where to Get Help

If you face currency-related issues, contact your hotel for guidance or visit the nearest bank. Explore Assam Tour Agency can also assist visitors with reliable currency exchange points and tips for managing finances during their trip. Here are some Currency Exchange Center in Guwahati.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Conclusion

Being informed about currency usage in Assam ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. With a mix of traditional cash transactions and modern digital payment systems, Assam is accommodating for visitors from all walks of life. At Explore Assam Tour Agency, we aim to make your trip convenient and memorable, from financial ease to cultural exploration.