Tips & Tipping
India
Tipping summary
Tipping is appreciated and increasingly expected in tourist areas. 10% at restaurants is standard. Small tips for hotel staff, drivers, and guides are customary.
Cards vs. Cash
Digital payments (UPI/PhonePe/Google Pay) have exploded in popularity across India. Cards are accepted at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants. Street vendors, rickshaws, and local markets still rely on cash. Always carry small bills.
By situation
Restaurants
10%
Many upscale restaurants add a service charge to the bill. If not included, 10% is standard. At casual restaurants and dhabas (roadside eateries), rounding up or leaving ₹20–50 is sufficient.
Hotel staff
₹50–200
Tip bellhops ₹50–100 per bag, housekeeping ₹50–100/night, and room service ₹50. At luxury hotels, tip more generously.
Taxis & auto-rickshaws
Round to nearest ₹10
Rounding up is appreciated but not required. For ride-share apps (Ola, Uber), you can tip in the app. Always insist on the meter or agree on a price before starting.
Tour guides
₹300–500 per day
For full-day private guides, ₹300–500 is standard. For group tours, ₹100–200 per person. Drivers on multi-day trips should also be tipped ₹200–300/day.
Spa & salon services
10%
Tipping 10% at spas and salons is customary, especially at hotel spas. Hand the tip directly to your therapist rather than leaving it at the desk.