Russian Currency Guide for Indian Travellers

Planning your finances is a crucial part of any international trip, and this becomes even more important when travelling to Russia. For Indian travellers, understanding the Russian currency system, currency exchange options, and legal limits helps avoid payment issues and unnecessary expenses during the journey.

Russia largely functions as a cash-driven economy for tourists, especially for daily spending. Proper currency planning before departure ensures smooth transactions, better control over travel budgets, and peace of mind throughout the trip. 

Official Currency of Russia

In Russia the Russian ruble (RUB) is the only official and legal currency. All purchases, hotels, transport, food, and shopping are made in rubles.

Foreign currencies, including Indian Rupees (INR), US Dollars, or Euros, are not widely accepted for regular transactions, thus making it a must for Indian tourists to carry RUB along when travelling to Russia.

Currency Used in Russia

The Central Bank of Russia grants the Russian ruble, which is also the legal tender in Russia. It has a smooth flow and mobility throughout the nation. In fact, it is the currency used in all urban and rural places.

Currency Symbol: ₽

ISO Code: RUB

Where Cash Is Commonly Used

People are not in the habit of using credit cards in places where cash is the standard way of payment:

Local markets and small shops

Taxis and local transport

Cafes, bakeries, and street food stalls

Small hotels and guesthouses 

Russian Ruble Denominations

Banknote Denominations

There is no limitation to the availability of Russian ruble banknotes in six denominations

50 RUB, 100 RUB, 200 RUB, 500 RUB, 1,000 RUB, 2,000 RUB, 5,000 RUB

Commonly Used Notes for Daily Expenses

For tourists, noting 100, 500, and 1,000 RUB are the most viable options for:

Public transport

Food and beverages

Entry tickets

Local shopping

To avoid payment problems, especially in places where exact change is a must, carrying smaller denominations is a smart move.

Currency Limits for Indians Travelling to Russia

Indian travelers need to comply with the RBI (Reserve Bank of India) rules when taking foreign currency out of the country.

Cash Limits: Indians can take foreign cash up to USD 3,000 (or equivalent) per head.

Indian travellers should note that international forex cards are not accepted across Russia, including hotels, restaurants, transport services, and tourist attractions. Digital payments and foreign-issued cards generally do not work, making cash in Russian Rubles (RUB) absolutely essential.

Total Foreign Exchange Allowance

By means of the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), one can get foreign currency worth USD 250,000 in a financial year for travel and related purposes.

It is quite safe and legal to carry Russian rubles within the allowed limit of cash, and they are also recommended for convenience.

Can Indians Use INR in Russia?

Not at all; Indian Rupees (INR) are not allowed in Russia, even for shopping or making payments.

As a matter of fact, INR cannot ever be used in hotels, shops, or restaurants.

Moreover, exchange counters in Russia seldom accept INR.

currency exchange houses are limited and not easily available near tourist spots, and those that do exist often offer unfavourable exchange rates. Carrying INR to Russia is not recommended, as most exchange houses do not accept it or offer very poor exchange rates. Limits, availability issues, and unfavorable conversion charges make it inconvenient for Indian travelers.

Best Currency to Carry from India to Russia

Carrying Russian rubles from India offers several advantages:

Immediate access to usable currency upon arrival

No dependence on airport currency exchanges

No unpleasing rates for exchanging money in another country

Necessary for the day-to-day expenses

Best Places to Visit in Russia

Moscow: Russia’s capital is a mixture of history and modernity. Visit Red Square, the Kremlin, St. basil's Cathedral, and experience the magnificent Moscow Metro which is famous for its artistic stations.

Saint Petersburg: Culture capital of Russia, often referred to as so, it is the city of The Hermitage Museum, Winter Palace, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and panoramic canal cruises. A city that all art and history lovers should visit.

Kazan: A city that attracts the most diverse anime critics and fanatics from all corners of the world. The Kazan Kremlin with its unique mix of Russian and Tatar architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sochi: A city on the shores of the Black Sea that attracts people in summer and winter alike, a perfect spot for relaxation, and nice to spend time outdoors. The winter Olympics that took place here is not the only reason the city is famous; it has also touristy activities for every season.

Vladivostok: A city with several ports on the Pacific Ocean that is struggling to cope with the ever-increasing number of visitors who would like to experience the enchanting landscapes. Attractions worth seeing are: Russky Bridge, Eagle's Nest Hill, and maritime museums.

Golden Ring Cities: These ancient towns with the names Suzdal, Vladimir, and Yaroslavl are famous for their old monasteries, churches, and traditional Russian architecture.

Lake Baikal: A majestic spot on the planet with a combination of natural beauty and one of the clearest freshwater lakes. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and people who want to have a winter ice experience.

Murmansk: A city that one can witness the Northern Lights in Russia. Situated within the Arctic Circle, it provides a distinctive winter trip.

Nizhny Novgorod: A historical town located at the joining of the Volga and Oka rivers, mainly distinguished by the Kremlin, river views, and its cultural importance.

Yekaterinburg: This city in the Ural Mountains is the dividing line for Europe and Asia and marks the point of historical events and modern urban life.

INR to RUB Exchange in India

Converting INR into RUB before travel is the most cost-effective but also the most practical way for Indian tourists to go.

Options Available for INR to RUB Exchange in India

Banks: Russian rubles are not very readily available.

Exchange margins are higher.

Longer processing time than that of the other options

Airport Exchange Counters: Quickly accessible

Exchange rates and service charges are very high

Authorized Forex Dealers: Best rates compared to banks and airports

Multiple currencies are available.

Quick processing and professional help

Currency Exchange with Orient Exchange

In terms of exchanging INR to RUB in India, Orient Exchange is undoubtedly the most trustworthy and reliable forex partner for Indian travelers.

Advantages of Selecting Orient Exchange

INR to RUB exchange rates that are both competitive and transpare

Russian ruble currency is readily available

RBI authorized and fully compliant

Online ordering is easy with delivery at your doorstep

Expert advice on currency limits and travel needs

INR to RUB Availability

Orient Exchange provides timely and adequate supplies of Russian rubles, which makes traveling to Russia for business or education very convenient for the students and the tourists.

Opting for Orient Exchange means that Indian tourists will be able to carry the exact currency of the correct denominations—without the stress of last-minute arrangements.

Conclusion

Understanding the Russian currency and advance planning for your INR to RUB exchange are crucial factors. Since INR is not legal tender in Russia, it is better to take Russian rubles from India to avoid payment troubles and unfavorable rates of exchange abroad.

By adhering to the RBI regulations, carrying sufficient cash, and selecting a reliable forex partner such as Orient Exchange, one can get secure, economical, and trouble-free currency management. Rightly prepared, the Indian tourists would be able to devote their attention completely to the enjoyment of the rich culture, history, and experiences of Russia, without the worry of money matters.

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