Currency Unit....The Indian Rupee

The Currency Unit in Goa as in the rest of India is the Indian Rupee. Each rupee consists of 100 paise. Currency notes are issued in the denominations of Rs. 1000, Rs. 500, Rs. 100, Rs. 50, Rs. 20, Rs. 10, Rs. 5, Rs. 2, Re. 1. Coins issued are of Rs. 5, Rs. 2, Re. 1, 50 paise, 25 paise, 10 paise denominations.

However you will rarely find the following in circulation: Notes of Rs. 2, Re. 1 and coins of 20 paise, 10 paise, 5 paise.

Notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 100 are quite similar in appearance and hence easy to confuse, so always take care while accepting or handing out notes of these denominations.

     Notes Not to scale

Money Exchange

It is not permitted to take Indian currency out of India nor purchase the Rupee overseas. If you are arriving via the airport, try to avoid changing money there, as you will probably be tired, you will find that the speed at which the change counter will leave you spinning (and probably out of pocket)

Money Exchange services are available at most major hotels & resorts and private money changers in the area. Most reputed banks such as HDFC, ICICI etc also have ATMs that accept Master and Visa Card cash withdrawals (ensure you keep your encashment certificates)

Travellers cheques of all major brands are easily changed. The currencies that are most widely and easily accepted are the US dollar and British Pound Sterling.

You are advised to make use of a security box at your hotel to secure your tickets etc whilst in Goa, if you are staying at accomodation with no security arrangements, try visiting a nearby Hotel and see if they will rent you a box.

At the end of your holiday you are not allowed to leave Goa with any Rupees, so toward the end of your holiday only change small amounts, you should just keep a small amount at hand for use in the airport departure lounge