Travel · South Asia
🇮🇳India
ATM withdrawals are low-cost but card acceptance varies widely — carry cash outside cities.
India has undergone a digital payments revolution — UPI is the dominant payment method for locals. Foreign visitors can't use UPI directly. ATM fees for foreign cards are typically low (₹20–50). For Indian residents travelling internationally, Niyo Global and Scapia offer zero forex fees — far better than the 3.5% charged by HDFC, ICICI, and SBI forex cards.
Best cards for India
ATM guide
SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis ATMs are widespread in cities. Most accept foreign Visa/Mastercard and charge ₹20–50 per foreign withdrawal. Daily limits of ₹10,000–20,000 apply. ATMs can run out of cash in smaller towns — withdraw at hotels or airports in major cities when possible.
Card acceptance
Two-speed India: modern restaurants, hotels, Swiggy/Zomato deliveries, and malls accept card. Street food, auto-rickshaws, small shops, and rural areas are cash-only or UPI-only.
Money tips for India
Niyo Global (debit) and Scapia (credit) are India's best zero-forex cards — both charge nothing on international spends vs 3.5% on bank forex cards.
Download Paytm or PhonePe to understand UPI if staying long-term (requires Indian number).
Major hotel chains accept international cards — book these in advance and pay on card.
Always carry small denominations (₹100, ₹200) for rickshaws and street food.
Beware of card skimming at non-bank ATMs in tourist areas like Goa and Rajasthan.
Cards and options to avoid
Standard international cards with 3.5% forex fee
Frequently asked questions
Cash in India
Cash essential for rickshaws, street food, small temples, and any non-chain establishment. ₹2,000–5,000 daily.
Local currency
Niyo Global Card
Zero forex markup card for Indian travellers — spend in 150+ countries at real exchange rates.