Kolkata is a dynamic blend of culture, commerce and tourism. Whether you’re an international tourist visiting Kolkata, an NRI visiting friends and family or a local citizen in need of foreign currency; identifying the proper money exchange in Kolkata is a must. The city has numerous currency exchange options available to the public, allowing you to have a safe transfer while enjoying great exchange rates.
In this article, we will cover the top places for currency exchange, important things to consider, and how to avoid hidden costs.
Why Choosing the Right Money Exchange in Kolkata Matters
The currency exchange rate is important, especially when talking about large dollar amounts. Having a trusted foreign money exchange in Kolkata helps you get exchange rates better than the banks; not only this, using a proper exchanger helps protect you from receiving a counterfeit note and incurring any unnecessary service charge.
Before exchanging any currency, it is a good idea to search for live rates using a Kolkata currency converter, to help with transparency, and ensure you are not being underpaid.
Also Read: What are The Best Places for Money Exchange in Bangalore?
Top 7 Places for Money Exchange in Kolkata
Here are some of the best places to money exchange in Kolkata, including the famous options in New Market:
1. Thomas Cook – Multiple Locations in Kolkata
Thomas Cook is one of the most reliable and trusted names for currency exchange in Kolkata. Thomas Cook prides itself on being transparent in its dealings and provides exceptional value in customer service. Thomas Cook offers foreign exchange services in many forms, from foreign currency exchange to travel cards and travel insurance.
Commonly Used Branches: Park Street, Salt Lake, and New Market
Why Thomas Cook?
- An RBI-authorized money changer
- Competitive exchange rates
- Fast and secure transactions
- Travel expertise to help you on your journey
Whether you are traveling abroad for a holiday, education, or business, Thomas Cook will offer the best experience for foreign money exchange in Kolkata.
2. EBIX Cash World Money – Easy & Trusted Currency Exchange
EBIX Cash World Money is a name you probably know when it comes to currency exchange in Kolkata, and with its fast delivery and wide range of branches. EBIX cash has reunified money change options in Kolkata with foreign money exchange and secure money transfer.
Key locations: Camac Street, Esplanade
Service provided:
- Forex currency exchange at competitive rates
- Prepaid forex travel cards
- International wire transfers
- Reputable cash transfer services in Kolkata
EBIX Cash World Money has great credibility. With its wide range of branches, it’s a great money exchanger for travellers, students, and professionals who might be wanting easy money change in Kolkata.
3. Muthoot Forex – Your Trusted Currency Exchange with Travel Support
Though Muthoot is famous for its gold loan offerings, it, too, has reliable currency exchange services from its very own forex division in Kolkata. Muthoot Forex has a professional staff and decades of experience to offer safe and hassle-free foreign exchange.
Branches Located At: Gariahat, Sealdah
Why Choose Muthoot Forex?
- RBI authorized forex services
- Competitive forex exchange rates
- Travel support and assistance
- Great for leisure and business travellers
If you are looking for a trusted foreign exchange in Kolkata with the possibility of getting more travel-related support then Muthoot Forex provides you with assurance and convenience.
4. Western Union – Secure and Fast International Money Transfers
Western Union is a leader in money transfer solutions and a preferred option for receiving money from overseas. In Kolkata, you can find Western Union services at authorized agents like Muthoot Finance, EBIX Cash, and also banks, which gives you excellent accessibility and usage options.
Available At: Various agents spread across the city, including bank branches and a few forex outlets
Reasons to use Western Union in Kolkata?
- Instant, quick and secure international money transfer option
- Convenient cash pickup from a large network of agents
- Great for receiving money from family and clients abroad
- The go-to reliable money transfer services in Kolkata for many
Western Union offers the assurance of getting money into your hands smoothly, quickly and without complication for students, travellers, and recipients of foreign remittances.
5. VK Forex – Express Service in New Market Area
VK Forex is in the center of Kolkata’s New Market area and is a favorite location to exchange once while fast and easy money exchange options in Kolkata New Market. It’s a favorite with tourists and shoppers wanting hassle-free currency exchange at reasonable rates.
Exact Location: New Market Area, Kolkata
Why VK Forex?
- Prompt and efficient service
- Good exchange rates
- Convenient for travellers and locals in central Kolkata
- A reputable spot for foreign exchange in Kolkata
While shopping or staying close to New Market, VK Forex stands out as one of the more accessible end-to-end currency exchange options in Kolkata.
6. Rupee Currency Exchange – The Foreign Exchange Service of Business Travelers in Dalhousie
Located in Kolkata’s business district, the Rupee Currency Exchange is popular among business people and frequent flyers. Because of their speed of service and accuracy in exchange rates, Rupee has become known as the best choice for foreign currency exchange for business transactions in Kolkata.
Location: Dalhousie, Kolkata
Why Choose Rupee Currency Exchange?
- Extremely fast service for corporate needs
- Educational and transparent foreign exchange rates
- Corporate-level service for larger transactions
- Reputable for business foreign exchange in Kolkata’s financial district
If you’re a corporate traveller and need trustworthy money exchange in Kolkata, then Rupee Currency Exchange will provide you with a hassle-free experience in the centre of the city.
7. Airport Forex Counters – 24/7 Currency Exchange at NSCBI Airport
Suppose you are in an urgent situation in Kolkata and need a currency exchange. In that case, the forex counters in Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The rates might be a little more than a bank, but it is worth it for the convenience, especially when considering late arriving flights, last-minute travelers not able to exchange before arriving or for an emergency.
Location: NSCBI Airport, Kolkata (Domestic & International Terminals)
Why Use Airport Forex Counters?
- Open for all your foreign currency exchange 24/7
- Good for emergency currency need
- A convenient alternative for inbound or outbound travellers
- Reliable foreign exchange in Kolkata 24/7
These counters are suitable for any traveller who was not able to exchange money earlier when on their trip, as they ensure you never leave the airport and do not have local currency in your pocket.
Currency Exchange in Kolkata: Things to Remember
Getting foreign currency exchanged in Kolkata can be very easy if one is sensible. To avoid hassles and to be able to get better value for your money, it is advisable for tourists, students or business travellers.
- Carry proper government-authorized identification: Valid government identification (passport, Aadhar card, PAN card, etc) is necessary for any foreign exchange dealings. So, always carry identification along with you.
- Pay careful attention to rates: Use a suitable Kolkata currency converter before any exchange to make sure that you will be offered the most suitable currency rate.
- Avoid non-authorised vendors Never use a street vendor for currency exchange. Use only RBI recognised/non-RBI foreign currency exchange vendors for proper currency exchange.
- Ask if there are service charges: Always ask if there are service charges or fees which might go undisclosed and surprise you at the counter.
Follow these guidelines and you will have a much safer currency exchange in Kolkata, wherever you go in the city.
Also Read: 10 Brilliant Money-Saving Tips to Help You Save Money
Money Transfer Services in Kolkata
Local and visiting consumers rely on money transfer services in Kolkata to send or receive international payments or remittance transactions. Services like Western Union, MoneyGram, and Remit2India offer secure transactions, especially when there is a linkup to a bank account or exchange through known exchange houses within the city.
When transferring or receiving money, you will always need to keep in mind processing time, charge and limits.
Foreign Exchange in Kolkata – Airport vs City
There is no doubt about the convenience of exchanging currency at the airport, especially for those people arriving on late-night flights or who are last-minute travellers. Airport foreign exchange counters are always open and often closer to you than you would like to believe. It’s generally a risk. However, we usually find that the convenience of exchanging at the airport comes with a much higher margin and less favourable rates.
In comparison, foreign money exchange in Kolkata city-based FX will provide you with better value. If you’re exchanging money with an authorized money changer in Park Street, New Market, or Dalhousie, the rates will always be better, and the service charges will be lower, too. If you have time, it’s better to wait and convert your currency at trusted city branches.
FAQs about Best Places for Money Exchange in Kolkata
Q1. Where to find the best money exchange in Kolkata?
A: Thomas Cook, EBIX Cash, and VK Forex (New Market) are well-rated and authorized by RBI.
Q2. Is foreign money exchange in Kolkata safe?
A: Yes, as long as you are using RBI authorized exchange services and not some street vendor.
Q3. How can I get the Kolkata currency converter?
A: You can use online services such as Google, XE.com or the currency converter on exchange websites.
Q4. Are there any documents required for currency exchange in Kolkata?
A: Most require a government issued ID (a passport for foreigners or PAN/Aadhar for Indians).
Q5. Are money transfer companies in Kolkata open 24/7?
A: Most of them are open during business hours but airport branches are open 24/7.
Conclusion
Whether you are a tourist, a business traveller or sending or receiving money, Kolkata has a variety of reliable choices for currency exchanges in Kolkata. Whether you want to go to a trusted name, such as Thomas Cook or EBIX Cash, or if you want to find a hidden place in New Market, whatever you choose the recommendation is always to compare rates, have the required documents, and go to an authorized location to exchange your money. With a bit of planning, you can save more or travel smartly!
