Roberta Aguirre
Bengaluru Airport, also known as Kempegowda International Airport, offers currency exchange services, but it is not advisable to exchange money here due to high exchange rates and fees. The airport offers currency conversion at a fixed rate, which is generally higher than live rates, with some travellers reporting a difference of up to 25% compared to other airports. Instead, it is recommended to use online platforms or authorised currency exchange agents in the city, which offer better rates and more currency options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency exchange available | Yes |
| Advisable | No, due to high exchange rates and fees |
| Exchange rate | Fixed, generally higher than live rates |
| Additional charges | High markups, between 5-15% over the standard exchange rate |
| Alternatives | Online platforms such as MakeMyTrip, BookMyForex, and Orient Exchange |
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What You'll Learn
High exchange rates and fees
Kempegowda International Airport, also known as Bengaluru Airport, offers currency exchange services at the airport. However, it is important to note that airport currency exchange services are often associated with higher exchange rates and fees compared to other options.
When exchanging currency at Bengaluru Airport, you may encounter higher markups on forex products, resulting in less favourable exchange rates. The airport offers currency conversion at a fixed rate, which is typically higher than the live rates available elsewhere. Some travellers have reported receiving approximately 25% less currency when exchanging money at Bengaluru Airport compared to other locations.
The high exchange rates and fees at airport currency exchange counters can be attributed to their operational costs and profit margins. These additional costs are often passed on to customers in the form of higher rates and fees. As a result, you may end up with less foreign currency for your money.
To avoid paying high exchange rates and fees, it is generally recommended to compare rates between different forex providers and choose authorised dealers for secure transactions. Online platforms, such as MakeMyTrip powered by BookMyForex, offer competitive rates and convenient services. With these platforms, you can benefit from live and transparent rates, avoiding the higher markups and fees associated with airport currency exchange services.
Additionally, it is advisable to plan ahead and exchange your currency before arriving at the airport. By doing so, you can take the time to compare rates and choose the most cost-effective option without the pressure of last-minute exchanges.
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Long queues and delays
Bengaluru Airport, also known as Kempegowda International Airport, has been criticised for its long queues and delays. In 2019, the airport was placed on high alert ahead of India's Independence Day, leading to intensified security checks and consequent delays in passenger processing. Passengers reported that the security check alone took up to 45 minutes, with queues starting from the ground floor and extending to the first floor.
In October 2024, disruptions at IndiGo Airlines' check-in and baggage drop facilities caused further chaos at the airport. A technical glitch resulted in long queues and frustrated passengers, who took to social media to express their dissatisfaction. The issue began around 12:30 pm, and by 1:30 pm, IndiGo acknowledged a "temporary system slowdown" across its network.
The airport's currency exchange counters have also been criticised for their long queues, leading to unnecessary delays for passengers opting for last-minute currency conversion. Bangalore Airport offers currency conversion at a fixed rate, which is often higher than live rates, with markups ranging from 5% to 15% over the standard exchange rate. As a result, travellers are advised to compare rates and use alternative currency exchange platforms or authorised dealers before travelling to the airport.
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Limited currency options
Currency exchange shops at airports, including Bengaluru Airport, make large profits by charging unfavourable exchange rates and high fees. They often have limited currency options and do not offer small denominations.
For example, one source reports that the exchange rate at Bengaluru Airport was 25% lower than at another airport. Another source states that the exchange rate at Bengaluru Airport was ₹58-₹60 per Euro, compared to rates between ₹77-₹80 per Euro at other airports.
Due to the high markups and uncompetitive rates offered at the airport, it is recommended that travellers exchange their currency prior to arriving at the airport. They can do so through online platforms such as MakeMyTrip and BookMyForex, which offer better exchange rates and zero commission.
Additionally, travellers can consider using a forex card, which can be used directly for purchases such as food and accommodation, avoiding the need to carry large amounts of cash.
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No rate lock-in
Currency exchange shops at airports, including Bengaluru Airport, make significant profits by charging unfavourable exchange rates. These rates are often 5% to 15% higher than the standard rate, with some reports of rates being as much as 25% to 30% lower than those offered by other providers.
This is due to the lack of a lock-in period facility at the airport, which means that travellers are unable to lock in exchange rates ahead of time. As a result, they are subject to prevailing rates at the time of exchange, which may be less favourable due to fluctuations in the market.
To avoid unfavourable exchange rates and additional fees, it is recommended that travellers opt for currency exchange services outside of the airport. Online platforms and authorised currency exchange agents in the city are likely to offer more competitive rates and lower fees.
By planning ahead and comparing rates, travellers can ensure they are getting the best value for their money and avoid the high costs associated with last-minute currency exchange at the airport.
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Better rates available elsewhere
Currency exchange shops at airports, including Bengaluru Airport, make large profits by offering poor exchange rates and charging high fees. Several sources suggest that airport exchange rates can be up to 25-30% worse than those available elsewhere.
There are several alternative options for exchanging currency that offer better rates. One option is to use a dedicated currency exchange platform such as BookMyForex, which offers better rates and same-day home delivery of currency in 50+ cities. Another option is to use a 0% markup forex card, which can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs without incurring poor exchange rates or high fees.
If you are in need of cash and are unable to access these alternative options, it is recommended to only exchange small amounts of money at the airport.
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