If you’re traveling to Kozhikode and need to exchange foreign currency or get forex services, here’s a detailed guide on how to go about it. Kozhikode has a variety of options for currency exchange, including banks, authorized dealers, and online services.
1. Banks Offering Forex Services
Banks in Kozhikode offer currency exchange services for travelers. You can exchange foreign currency at competitive rates, and some banks also offer multi-currency cards.
- SBI (State Bank of India)
- Services: Currency exchange, traveler’s cheques, forex cards.
- Location: Multiple branches around Kozhikode, including near the railway station.
- Documents Needed: Passport, Visa (if applicable), and flight ticket.
- Operating Hours: Typically 10 AM – 4 PM on weekdays.
- HDFC Bank
- Services: Forex services including currency exchange and forex cards.
- Location: HDFC Bank branches in major commercial areas like Mavoor Road.
- Documents Needed: Passport, visa (if applicable), and flight ticket.
- Operating Hours: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM on weekdays.
- ICICI Bank
- Services: Currency exchange, multi-currency forex cards, international money transfers.
- Location: Available in major areas like Kannur Road and Calicut.
- Documents Needed: Passport, Visa, and proof of travel.
- Operating Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM, Monday to Friday.
- Axis Bank
- Services: Forex cards, currency exchange, traveler’s cheques.
- Location: Axis Bank branches in the city center.
- Documents Needed: Passport and flight details.
- Operating Hours: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
2. Authorized Forex Dealers
Authorized Forex dealers in Kozhikode provide currency exchange services and offer competitive rates for both buying and selling foreign currencies. These dealers may offer cash, cards, and drafts.
- Thomas Cook Forex
- Services: Currency exchange, traveler’s cheques, prepaid forex cards.
- Location: Thomas Cook outlet in the city.
- Documents Needed: Passport, visa, and flight ticket.
- Operating Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM.
- Travelex Forex
- Services: Currency exchange, forex cards, international money transfer.
- Location: Available at major shopping malls and commercial centers.
- Documents Needed: Passport and flight details.
- Operating Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM.
- Western Union Forex
- Services: Money transfers, currency exchange.
- Location: Various partner locations in Kozhikode.
- Documents Needed: Passport and ticket.
- Operating Hours: Varies by outlet.
3. Online Forex Exchange Services
You can also use online platforms for currency exchange and delivery to your hotel or residence in Kozhikode.
- BookMyForex
- Services: Currency exchange, forex cards, money transfers.
- How it Works: Order forex online and choose home delivery or pick-up from partner outlets in Kozhikode.
- Documents Needed: Passport, Visa (if applicable), and proof of travel.
- Website: bookmyforex.com
- ForexKart
- Services: Currency exchange, forex cards, remittance services.
- How it Works: Online currency exchange with delivery to your location in Kozhikode.
- Website: forexkart.com
4. Currency Exchange Kiosks at Kozhikode International Airport
Kozhikode International Airport (Calicut International Airport) has several currency exchange counters, where you can exchange foreign currency upon arrival or departure.
- Services: Currency exchange for all major international currencies, forex cards, and traveler’s cheques.
- Location: Both domestic and international terminals.
- Operating Hours: 24 hours a day.
5. Currency Exchange via ATMs
International debit and credit cards can be used to withdraw money from ATMs in Kozhikode. Many ATMs accept global cards and offer foreign currency withdrawal.
- Major Banks with International ATM Access: HDFC, ICICI, State Bank of India, Axis Bank, and others.
- Fee: International ATM withdrawals may attract service charges.
- Location: ATMs are available throughout the city, including near the railway station, major malls, and hotels.
6. Forex Cards
Forex cards are a secure and convenient option for managing your travel money. These cards can be used in shops, restaurants, ATMs, and for online payments.
- Where to Get: Available at banks like ICICI, Axis Bank, HDFC, and authorized Forex dealers like Thomas Cook and Travelex.
- Benefits: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and easily load multiple currencies on a single card.
Tips for Forex Exchange in Kozhikode
- Compare Rates: Always compare the exchange rates offered by different providers (banks, dealers, online services).
- Transaction Fees: Check for any additional transaction fees or service charges before exchanging currency.
- Exchange in Advance: If possible, exchange currency in advance to avoid long queues or unfavorable rates at the airport or last-minute exchanges.
- Carry Small Denominations: Carry a mix of small and large denominations of currency for convenience when shopping or using taxis.
By following these tips, visitors to Kozhikode will have easy access to forex services and currency exchanges throughout their stay. Whether you prefer to use traditional methods or online services, there are plenty of options available for travelers in the city.