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Money
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Rupee is the name of the currency used in India. The rupee(Rs) is divided into 100 paise(p). There are coins of 10, 20, 25 and 50 paise and rupees 1,2 and 5. Notes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 also avaialable.
Twenty four hour ATM's linked to international networks are common in most parts of India. This means that travellers can now rely on debit card as a primary cash source.A cash or travellers cheque backup is recomended in case you lose or break your card.
** Remember you must present your passport whenever changing currency and travellers cheque.
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ATM
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Pondicherry have enarmous number of 24-hour ATMs that accept Cirrus, Maestro, Master card, Plus and Visa cards. Banks in Pondicherry that currently accept foreign cards include Citibank, HDFC, ICICI, UTI, HSBC and some state bank of india ATMs.
Don't rely on ATMs as your sole source of cash if you're planning to travel beyond the larger tows or away from tourist centres , as they either won't be available at all, or may not accept foreign cards. Alternatively ensure you withdraw adequate cash from ATMs in big cities before venturing off.
Red Alert : Be aware that your bank may impose higher charges on internatinal transactions, so withdraw big amounts of money at once.
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Money Changers
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The safest place to change your foreign currencies into Indian Rupees is Bank only. But you have to wait for long time in queue if you want to use bank to change your currencies. And also these services available only during the bank working hours.
Usually moneychangers open for longer hours than the banks, private moneychangers are a convenient option, and are located virtually everywhere in the Pondicherry city limit. However it pays to compare the rates with those at the bank and as with anywhere, check you are given the correct amount.
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Security
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The safest place for your money and your passport is next to your skin, either in a moneybelt around your waist or in a secure pouch under your shirt.Never, ever carry these things in your luggage. And also never leave your valuable documents and treavellers cheque in your hotel room.
Red Alert : Please try to separate your big notes from your small ones, so you don't publicly display large wads of cash when paying for minor services.
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Visas
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You must get a visa before arriving in India. Six month multiple entry visas are issued to nationals of most countries regardless of whether you intend staying that long or re-entering the country. Visas cost A$75 for australians , US$ 60 for US citizens, Plus $15 service fee for counsulates.
Visa Extensions :
1. Extended visas are possible for people of Indian descent who hold a Non-Indian passport and live abroad.
2. Fourteen-Day extensions are possible under exceptional circumstances from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).Found in Chennai nearest city from Pondicherry.
Red Alert : You may not be issued a visa to enter India unless you hold an onward ticket.
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Cash
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It's no problem changing money in the bigger cities and towns or at tourist hotbeds. However, it's advisable to have some US dollars or UK Euro in cash in case you're unable to change travellers cheques or use of credit card.
Red Alert : Whenever you change money , make sure o take your time and check each note. Some bills look similar, so check them very carefully.
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Hotels