First-time visitors to India often find that making payments takes some adjustment. Methods that work easily at home may not suit every situation here.
Cash needs frequent exchanges and careful handling. Cards are usually not accepted or declined, or incur foreign exchange charges. Finding the best way for tourists to pay in India means comparing cash, cards, and how UPI now fits into everyday travel spending.
Cash vs Cards vs UPI: How Tourists Pay in India
Traditionally, tourists in India relied on cash for everyday payments like taxis, restaurants, and markets, while cards were mainly used for flights, hotels, and larger purchases. That pattern has changed. Today, UPI has largely replaced both, as locals use it for almost every type of payment, from small street purchases to transport and dining.
How Each Method Compares
| Payment Method | Traditional Use | What to Expect Today |
| Cash | Taxis, markets, and small restaurants | Fast but costly due to ATM and currency conversion fees that can add up to 5–10%. Requires frequent ATM visits, managing change, and carrying cash, which also increases risk. |
| Cards | Flights, hotels, and large stores | Convenient when accepted, but often carries 3–5% foreign exchange fees. Acceptance can be limited, as many merchants prefer UPI. International cards are also commonly declined due to terminal setup, merchant policy, or bank risk controls, and are more exposed to fraud. |
| UPI | Everyday payments for locals | Widely accepted across India for daily spending. QR-based payments are quick, simple, and increasingly preferred by merchants over cards and cash. |
Cash still works in informal settings, and cards are useful for specific expenses, but UPI has become the default payment method in India. For tourists, this shift means that relying only on cash or cards can feel limiting, while UPI aligns more closely with how payments actually work on the ground today.
Why UPI Is the Best Way for Tourists to Pay in India
For many visitors, UPI quickly becomes the best way for tourists to pay in India because it fits how money moves day to day.
Wide acceptance
UPI is used almost everywhere in India, covering everything from major travel hubs to everyday local businesses.
Fast payments
Payments are completed in seconds by scanning a QR code, with no waiting for change or card machines.
Clear costs
There is no forex markup and no surprise fees, which keeps spending predictable.
This is why many travellers prefer using UPI for daily needs such as transport, meals, small buys, and shopping at local stores.
Convenience
UPI removes the need to carry cash, look for ATMs, or depend on card terminals. It works equally well for small and frequent payments throughout the day.
Security
Transactions are authenticated digitally, reducing the risk of loss, theft, or card misuse. There is no need to hand over a card or carry large amounts of cash.
How Sliq pay Helps Tourists Get Started Instantly
UPI is widely used in India, but tourists need a way to access it easily. Sliq pay makes this possible with a setup designed specifically for international travelers.
Registration is quick, making it suitable even for short visits. The app keeps things simple, focusing on clear steps and easy payments.
With no forex markup, travellers see transparent costs at the time of payment. Since it works everywhere in India, Sliq pay fits naturally into daily spending, whether travelling between cities or staying local.
Start Paying with UPI Through Sliq pay
Travelling in India becomes simpler with UPI.With Sliq pay, travellers can get started quickly, pay across UPI merchants, and avoid forex markup on everyday expenses. It is an easy way to move around without worrying about cash, cards, or extra charges.
Disclaimer – The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax, or professional advice. Product features, pricing, eligibility, and availability may vary by country, user type, regulatory requirements, and are subject to change.
Please refer to Sliq pay’s Terms of Use and official product pages for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Sliq pay makes no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the content.
