Currency Exchange At Delhi Airport: Is It Possible?

can i exchange currency at delhi airport

Currency exchange is available at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, India, with several forex counters located in both the arrival and departure sections of Terminal 3. However, it is advised that travellers compare rates with other currency exchange providers before exchanging currency at the airport, as airport exchange rates can be significantly higher. Online platforms such as BookMyForex and MakeMyTrip are recommended as alternatives, offering better rates and convenience.

Characteristics Values
Currency exchange available Yes
Exchange rate Fixed for the day, higher than live rates
Exchange counters Multiple, in both arrival and departure sections of Terminal 3
Exchange fees High
Exchange providers EbixCash, MakeMyTrip, BookMyForex, Forex on Wheels, RBI-verified vendors
Alternatives Banks, offline forex brokers, travel agents, online platforms

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Currency exchange counters at Delhi Airport

Delhi Airport, also known as Indira Gandhi International Airport, offers currency exchange services to travellers. The airport has several foreign exchange counters located within its premises, providing convenience for travellers who need to convert their money into the local currency or other foreign currencies.

While currency exchange counters at Delhi Airport offer a quick and accessible option for travellers, it is important to consider the potential challenges associated with airport currency exchange. High exchange fees and unfavourable exchange rates are common issues at airport currency exchange counters, including those at Delhi Airport. The rates offered may not be competitive compared to other options available in the market.

Additionally, long waiting queues and currency conversion delays can be expected at airport currency exchange counters, including Delhi Airport. These delays may cause unnecessary last-minute rushes, especially during peak travel times. It is recommended to explore alternative options, such as online currency conversion services, to avoid these potential inconveniences.

Online platforms, such as MakeMyTrip powered by BookMyForex, offer competitive exchange rates and hassle-free currency exchange services. Travellers can utilise these online platforms to compare exchange rates, book their desired exchange rate, and receive their foreign currency before departing for the airport. By planning their currency exchange in advance, travellers can make informed decisions, avoid high fees, and secure favourable exchange rates.

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High exchange fees and poor rates

Currency exchange shops at Delhi Airport make large profits by charging high exchange fees and unfavourable rates. The money changers at Indian airports have high operating costs, including salaries and extremely high rent, which are passed down to the consumer.

The exchange rates at Delhi Airport are highly volatile and fluctuate constantly. They are fixed for the day and do not safeguard customers from currency fluctuations. This means that travellers may be exchanging money at unfavourable rates, which can be 10% to 15% costlier than online platforms.

It is recommended to compare rates before exchanging currency. Online platforms like BookMyForex and MakeMyTrip offer live and transparent rates, without any hidden fees, that can be frozen in advance. These platforms also offer home delivery services, removing the hassle of exchanging currency at the airport.

Some banks, such as Punjab National Bank and Central Bank of India, are also available at the airport and may offer better rates. However, exchanging currency at the airport is generally not advisable due to the high fees and poor rates.

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Long waiting queues

Currency exchange counters at Delhi Airport, also known as Indira Gandhi International Airport, are available in both the arrival and departure sections (Terminal 3). While currency exchange at the airport is a popular option for travellers, there are several drawbacks to this choice.

One of the main issues is the long waiting queues. The demand for currency exchange services at the airport can result in lengthy delays, causing frustration and wasting valuable time for travellers. These queues are often a result of last-minute currency exchange, as travellers may not have planned ahead or may not be aware of alternative options.

The high demand for currency exchange services at Delhi Airport can also lead to higher fees and unfavourable exchange rates. Currency exchange outlets located outside the airport, particularly in market areas like Connaught Place, often offer better exchange rates than those offered at the airport. Additionally, online currency exchange platforms, such as BookMyForex, provide competitive rates and eliminate the need to wait in long queues altogether.

To avoid the hassle of long queues and unfavourable exchange rates at the airport, it is advisable to explore alternative options. Travellers can utilise online platforms or visit currency exchange outlets in market areas to obtain foreign currency before arriving at the airport. By planning ahead and comparing exchange rates, travellers can make informed decisions and potentially save both time and money.

While Delhi Airport offers convenient access to currency exchange services, it may not be the most cost-effective or time-efficient choice due to the long waiting queues and higher fees. Considering alternative options can help travellers optimise their currency exchange experience.

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Online currency exchange alternatives

There are several online currency exchange alternatives to exchanging currency at Delhi Airport. These include:

  • BookMyForex: This online forex platform allows you to buy and sell foreign currency notes online, with no hidden charges and the same-day doorstep delivery of over 40 currencies. BookMyForex claims to offer significantly better rates than airport forex shops, which make large profits by charging poor exchange rates.
  • ExTravelMoney: ExTravelMoney is an online forex aggregator that allows you to compare live rates from multiple RBI-authorised dealers and banks, ensuring you get the cheapest exchange rates available in Delhi. You can book forex anywhere in Delhi through the platform, and they also provide the facility to sell foreign currency at competitive rates.
  • Forex on Wheels: Forex on Wheels offers competitive exchange rates on all international currencies through their wide network of branches across Delhi & Noida. They claim to provide honest and professional service, with no hidden charges.
  • Orient Exchange: Orient Exchange is an RBI-authorized foreign exchange dealer with an online platform and physical branches across India and the world. They offer a range of forex-related services, including the purchase of foreign currency and forex cards, wire transfers, and sending money abroad. They provide upfront pricing with no hidden charges.

It is recommended to compare rates before deciding on a currency exchange platform or service. Carrying a large amount of foreign currency in cash can be risky, so forex cards, which can be loaded with multiple currencies at zero markup rates, are a safer alternative.

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Currency exchange in Delhi outside the airport

Currency exchange counters are available at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, and major banks such as Punjab National Bank and Central Bank of India are present at the airport. However, the exchange rates at the airport are often 10% to 15% higher than those offered by online platforms like BookMyForex, which offers home delivery of forex cards and currency notes.

If you are looking for currency exchange in Delhi outside the airport, there are several options. Connaught Place, located in the centre of Delhi, is home to several businesses related to currency exchange. Dwarka, due to its proximity to the airport, also has several spots for currency exchange. Other areas in Delhi offering currency exchange services include Tilak Nagar in West Delhi, Green Park in South Delhi, and Paharganj, which is a hotspot for foreign tourists.

In addition to these areas, there are several companies in Delhi that offer currency exchange services, such as Orient Exchange, which has physical branches and an online portal, and MakeMyTrip, which offers forex services online and at counters in the airport. It is recommended to compare rates before deciding, as the cheapest way to exchange currency can vary.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, there are multiple currency exchange counters at Delhi Airport.

You can find currency exchange counters in both the arrival and departure sections of Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The exchange rates at Delhi Airport are typically higher than those offered by other providers. The rates are fixed for the day and do not follow live market rates.

Yes, you may find better exchange rates at RBI-approved vendors, banks, offline forex brokers, or online platforms like MakeMyTrip, BookMyForex, or Forex on Wheels.

Yes, you can easily convert leftover foreign currency to INR online with services like BookMyForex, which offers door delivery for collected currency.

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