: Use a fee-reimbursement card (like Charles Schwab ) at major Indian bank ATMs (e.g., SBI, HDFC) to get the "official" exchange rate with fewer fees than exchange desks.

Most seasoned travelers recommend for the best value:

: Legally, foreign travelers can only bring up to ₹25,000 into India in physical cash.

Buying Indian Rupees (INR) in the U.S. is notoriously difficult because India has a "closed currency," meaning there are strict regulations on bringing it in or out of the country. While many travelers are told it's impossible to get rupees before they land, there are a few specific ways to prepare. How to Buy Indian Rupees in the U.S.