The Rupee, which is divided into 100 paise.
Abbreviations: Re. (singular), Rs. (plural)
Currency code:INR
Coin denominations: 25 and 50 paise, and 1, 2, and 5 rupees.
Note denominations: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees.
Exchange Rate (as of November 17 2007): Rs 1 = EUR 0.017, GBP 0.012, USD 0.025 (EUR 1 = Rs 57.61, GBP 1 = Rs 80.63, USD 1 = Rs 39.24)(see [Reserve Bank of India site / link
http://www.rbi.org.in/] for current figures.)
There are no restrictions on the importation of foreign currency by tourists, provided a Declaration Form is completed on arrival. The import and export of the Rupee is, however, prohibited and may not be spent in Duty Free Shops or on board aircrafts. Receipts for all currency must be kept, as it may be reconverted on departure.
It is advisable to carry money in the form of travellers' cheques, preferably in US Dollars, as it is widely recognised and accepted.
Changing money through unauthorised persons is illegal as well as risky in respect of receiving counterfeit money.
Credit cards
Most hotels, restaurants and some shops accept major credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, Visa and Mastercard. They will usually display signage to that effect.
Time
UTC + 5 hours and 30 minutes.
