Is India cashless?
Mixed#99 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #16 of 32 in Asia
Short answer: Carry cash, or download Cheq or Mony to pay by UPI QR code like locals do.
Indians pay by UPI QR code almost everywhere, even at street stalls, but UPI is hard for foreigners to use. Cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants, so most visitors still rely on cash for daily purchases.
Will my card work?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in India take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do I need cash?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in India.
Local currency: Indian rupee (INR)
How does tipping work?
5-10% in restaurants if service is not included. Small tips for drivers, porters and guides.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Apps you can use as a visitor
Locals here pay with apps as much as cards. These work without a local bank account.
Cheq or Mony (UPI One World)
A prepaid UPI wallet for foreign visitors, so you can scan the same UPI QR codes locals use, even at street stalls.
- How to set it up
- Download the app and complete KYC with your passport and visa. No Indian bank account or phone number needed. Load it with a foreign card. Kiosks at Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru airports can help.
Getting cash: ATMs
Some ATMs are fee-free
Several state banks are reported not to charge foreign cards, while private banks such as ICICI and Axis do. Withdrawals are often capped at ₹10,000.
Fee-free options
- State Bank of India (reported free, up to ₹10,000 per withdrawal)
- Canara Bank (reported free)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Carry small notes; change for large notes can be hard to find.
Frequently asked questions
Is India cashless?
India scores 46/100 on Cashlessy (mixed), ranking #99 of 197 countries. Indians pay by UPI QR code almost everywhere, even at street stalls, but UPI is hard for foreigners to use. Cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants, so most visitors still rely on cash for daily purchases.
Do I need cash in India?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in India.
Are credit cards accepted in India?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in India take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do you tip in India?
5-10% in restaurants if service is not included. Small tips for drivers, porters and guides.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in India?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in India.
Which ATMs are free in India?
Several state banks are reported not to charge foreign cards, while private banks such as ICICI and Axis do. Withdrawals are often capped at ₹10,000. Best options: State Bank of India (reported free, up to ₹10,000 per withdrawal); Canara Bank (reported free).
What payment apps can tourists use in India?
Cheq or Mony (UPI One World): A prepaid UPI wallet for foreign visitors, so you can scan the same UPI QR codes locals use, even at street stalls.
Compare with Asia
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.