How to get Forex and Currency Exchanges in Purnia

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Here’s a complete, traveller-friendly guide to getting forex (foreign currency) and currency exchange services in Purnia (Purnea), Bihar, India — so you won’t need to look for any more information before your trip.

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Currency Exchange & Forex Options in Purnia

When visiting Purnia and needing foreign currency (for travel, shopping abroad, etc.), you have a few reliable ways to convert INR to foreign currency or vice‑versa: exchange at banks, authorized dealers, or money‑transfer counters.

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1. Banks & ATMs That Handle Currency Exchange

Many banks can help you exchange cash or issue forex cards if you request in advance.

Major Bank Branches in Purnia

• ICICI Bank Purnia‑Branch & ATM – Offers cash deposit/withdrawal and can assist with foreign exchange services if requested and if RBI‑authorized.
• Axis Bank Branch – Full‑service bank; useful for travel card or currency exchange requests.

Tip: Banks usually offer exchange at close to mid‑market rates but may require advance notice for large cash currency orders, and you’ll need documentation like Passport, Visa, Travel tickets, and PAN Card.

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2. Money Transfer & Exchange Counters

These are often quicker for cash currency exchange, but always check rates and fees before agreeing.

Good Local Counters

• Royal Galaxy Western Union – Highly rated counter in Khazanchi Haat offering money transfer and cash exchange services.
• Fino Payments Bank – Money transfer services; may help with currency exchange requests.
• Narayan Multi Store – Offers some money transfer services (check if currency exchange available).

Note: Not all counters directly sell foreign currency — but they’re good places to inquire or transfer funds if required.

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3. Finance & Exchange Services

Some non‑bank agencies provide forex exchange, travel cards, or remittance services.

• Muthoot Finance Gold Loan and Muthoot Fincorp Gold Loan – Usually focused on loans, but some branches help with money transfer or can guide you to nearby forex services.
  (Always call ahead — these aren’t guaranteed foreign exchange counters but may offer related services or referrals.)

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4. Local Money Changers & Travel Agents

Although specific shop names are less formally listed online, platforms list a few options in Purnia where travellers often exchange currency:

• Maha Laxmi Fuel Centre, near Polytechnic College, Maranga — Money changers listed locally.
• Smart Point, Line Bazar — Listed as exchange location.
• Hotel Biraj International or Hotel Golden Tulip — Some larger hotel counters help with travel services including arranging forex.
• ESAF Small Finance Bank (Bhatta Bazar) — Good local bank with finance services.
  (From local directory listings — contact ahead for exact foreign exchange availability.)

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5. Forex Cards – A Safer Option for Travellers

Instead of carrying lots of cash, you can pre‑load a forex/prepaid travel card with multiple currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.). These cards:

• Are safer than cash
• Can be used at shops & ATMs abroad
• Often have better rates than on‑the‑spot cash exchanges

You can order these online from forex dealers and choose pickup at your nearest city branch (for example in Patna or Kolkata), or some services even offer doorstep delivery before your trip.

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What You’ll Need for Currency Exchange

When buying foreign currency or a forex card in India, you normally must show:

• Valid Passport
• Valid Visa (if travelling to that country)
• Confirmed Flight/Travel Tickets
• PAN Card (as per RBI rules)

Without these, banks or authorised agents may not exchange currency for international travel.

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Tips for Tourists & First‑Time Visitors

• Always compare exchange rates — different banks and agents quote slightly different rates.
• Ask about service fees/commissions before finalising the exchange.
• Plan ahead — some foreign currencies might not be immediately available in cash locally (especially less commonly used ones).
• Using a forex card is usually safer and more convenient than carrying large amounts of cash.

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