What you need to know about money in Shimla
What Currency Does Shimla Use Now
In the heart of the Himalayas, Shimla sparkles like a jewel and asks you to partake in the splendor. But before you immerse yourself in the dazzling Shimla sunsets and taste the local delicacies, you need to know the lay of the land, or rather, the money matters. In Shimla, and indeed the rest of India, the Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used. The currency itself sports the smiling faces of national leaders on paper notes and gleaming coins in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 2000. A quick fact, the smallest denomination Rs. 1 has only coins being made, no paper notes.
Credit and Debit Cards in Shimla
Visiting the mesmerizing toy trains, the christ church, and the iconic ridge, it's best done with a mix of cash and card. But if you're wondering, 'are credit cards widely accepted?', then yes, the majority of eateries, hotels, and shops in Shimla welcome plastic money. Both credit and debit cards, especially those of Visa and MasterCard, are broadly embraced. However, it's always a good idea to double-check with smaller establishments or street vendors, just to be on the safe side. Some may not have the facilities available or may require a minimum purchase amount for card usage.
Using Cash in Shimla
In Shimla, the streets echo with clamorous marketplaces filled with local artisans' colorful wares. For places like Mall Road or Lower Bazaar, hard cash is key. It's always wise to carry some cash for such markets, small eateries, or for tipping the unsung heroes - the loyal hotel staff, the chatty cab drivers, and others who make your journey smoother. More so, while digital payments are making headway, cash still reigns supreme in offbeat locations tucked away from the city's bustling center.
ATMs in Shimla
Fret not about staying cashed up, as Shimla has a healthy dose of ATMs scattered about the city, ready to dispense Rupees whenever you're in short supply. Major national and international banks like State Bank of India, HDFC, ICICI, and others have ATMs that operate 24/7. However, a word to the wise - the ATMs get restocked primarily in the morning, so if you're planning a late-night withdrawal, you might want to nudge it up to your day's itinerary.
Bank Hours
For those moments when you need an interaction that's a little more personal than an ATM, bank branches dot Shimla's map. With service hours generally from 10 am to 4 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 1 pm on Saturdays, banks tend to honor their siestas on Sundays and public holidays. Also, remember – although banks don’t charge for cash withdrawals, non-Indian cards may be subject to a fee set by your home bank. Always ensure to verify with your bank about the international charges applicable for withdrawals.
So, step out, explore the grandeur of Shimla, whether it's from the confines of a scenic toy train or amidst the vibrancy of local bazaars. With your financial keys in mind, let your heart be captured by the charm of Shimla!
