Indian Rupees: where can I change them back to GBP?

[JandLandG]

Hi there

I came back from a work trip to India recently with about 50 quid's worth of Rupees. The Post Office wouldn't change it back, saying it couldn't be done.

Anyone know if this is right?

Any tips/thoughts/solutions appreciated...I'm not back in India for a year, so would like to get it changed if poss!

Many thanks

Thanks Marco. I'd heard about the 31Dec deadline and was assuming more chaos would be looming! I don't think you can use paytm without an Indian mobile number but I've heard you can get a SIM card at Kochi airport so will try that. It sounds like ATMS can't be relied on so I'm planning to bring sterling in larger quantities than I normally would and change it at forex places where possible. It's mainly rickshaws, tips and things like bottled water that I'll need cash for. I should be able to use my card for most expenses.

Despite the chaos, I'm very jealous of you living in India. Whereabouts are you?

I'm in Mumbai. I teach in an international school. This is my 7th year.

Sorry posted too soon.

My Apple ID is associated with the UK App Store and I was able to download PayTm but you may be right about the Indian number. I would be surprised if you can get a Sim at the airport as you need proof of address etc to get one but there are some provisions for tourists.

I'll be flying into Mumbai at various points in my trip but only for connecting flights, except for one night, when I'm staying near the airport - will wave to you as I fly past!

I think if you have a booking confirmation from your hotel, you can buy a tourist SIM at the airport which is limited to the time span of your visa. I don't think I've ever had to put so much thought into how I'm going to get by on an overseas trip before! Am slightly apprehensive about the whole situation as am travelling on my own, but realise it is much, much worse for those living in the country.

Hope you arrived safely and are managing cash wise.

Thanks Marco. Yes, am in Kochi at the moment, and was able to change £55 sterling at Mumbai airport and another £60 at Kochi airport, and then again at a bank the following day. So, although there is a theoretical weekly limit, it seems that it's difficult for banks and forexes to keep tabs, and tourists can get around it by going to different banks. Have also managed ATM withdrawals using different cards, and there were no queues either. Also managed to get an Airtel SIM card at Kochi airport, so all rather more straightforward than I expected.

That sounds good.

Modi is making another announcement on Saturday at 7:30. So things could change again.

That sounds ominous! He'd better not now scrap the new 2000 note, I have a stack of them!