Where to exchange money in Varanasi

If you’re planning a trip to Varanasi, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.

On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in Varanasi. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.

Where to exchange money in Varanasi

If you’re planning a trip to Varanasi, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.

On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in Varanasi. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.

Wise

Spend abroad without hidden fees

Currency exchanges in Varanasi

If you’re still into the idea of carrying cash around and exchanging it, here are some popular foreign currency exchange locations in Varanasi.

One reminder, though: there’s no such thing as fee-free or 0% commission foreign exchange transactions. So, always check the mid-market exchange rate in advance, so you know how much your money’s worth.

Money ChangerAddressContact Information
Unimoni Financial Services Ltd, VaranasiNo.C19/120-2, Ground Flr, Kamla Nagar, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010, India+91 75940 03088
Raghav Banking PointGali, Hukulganj, Geeta Nagar, Chaukaghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India+91 82991 00447
Currency Exchange8276+C27, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India+91 542 240 0509
A2Z India TravelS-20/51-4 & 5, Sridas Foundation The Mall Rd Varunapul, near Radisson Hotel Cantonment, Varanasi cantonment, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, India+91 542 250 0549
HARSHIKA ENTERPRISESIndia Post, NEAR, K 54/117, Daranagar Rd, Daranagar, Kotwali, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India+91 94156 83881
Thomas Cook - Foreign Currency ExchangeS 20/51/5, S/20/52/4, Sridas Foundation Varuna Pul, The Mall Rd, beside Radison Hotel, Varanasi cantonment, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, India+91 88795 75539
Money GramD 24/5-A-1 Friends Travel, Pandey Ghat, Bengali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India+91 70840 69338
Western Unionfriend's travel, D24/5-1, Pandey Ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India+91 94151 60972
RemitX - A division of Capital India Finance Ltd52, Ground Floor, Patel Nagar, Nadesar, Chaukaghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, India+91 92083 89789

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Indian rupee rate today

When you're in Varanasi, and also the rest of India, the official currency is the Indian rupee.

Yet, when you step into a currency exchange shop, you'll notice they use currency codes. The code associated with the Indian rupee is INR, so be sure to take note of it when comparing exchange rates.


What you should know about exchanging money in Varanasi

Before exchanging money in Varanasi or any foreign city, it's important to be informed to avoid excessive charges and get the best deals. Consider opening a bank account in India for long-term stays or substantial investments like buying property or cars.

1. Beware of 'zero fee' services
Services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates, not reflecting the mid-market rate, leading to hidden profits for them.

2. Check the exchange rate beforehand
Familiarize yourself with the base rate to identify a bad deal from exchange services.

3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
Convenience comes at a price, as airports and hotels usually offer poor rates and high transaction fees.

4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your home bank has partnerships in India banks to avoid extra ATM fees, and inform your bank before traveling.


5. Opt for local currency
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in Indian rupees for a fairer rate and avoid undisclosed exchange rates and additional fees.

Say goodbye to overcomplicated currency exchange

Wise can help you get a better deal on currency conversion in over 40 currencies, with the mid-market exchange rate and low fees.

Open a personal Wise account online or in the Wise app, and order a linked debit card for a one-time fee to spend and withdraw money in 150+ countries.

There’s no fee to spend any currency you hold, and no foreign transaction fee to worry about. Use your account when you travel or shop online in foreign currencies, send payments in 70+ currencies, and get your own local account details in 9 currencies.

Bottom line

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to exchanging money in Varanasi. Don't forget to do your research on the exchange rate before converting your money, and check Wise out if you want a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash.

Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.