Planning a Trip to India? Here’s Exactly How Much to Tip!
If you’re an American traveler heading to India, you might be wondering — how much should you tip? Good question!
In India, tipping isn’t as deeply rooted as in the U.S., but it’s still a kind and respectful way to say thanks, especially in tourist-friendly places.
Here’s a quick rule of thumb to get you started:
- Restaurants: 5-10% if no service charge
- Hotel Housekeeping: ₹100-₹150 per night
- Tour Guides: ₹100-₹500 per day
- Taxi/Drivers: Round up by ₹20-₹50
- Spa/Salon: ₹50-₹200 depending on service
Easy, right? Just a little tip goes a long way here. Now, let’s dive deeper so you feel 100% confident while traveling.
Quick Reference Tipping Guide for India 🇮🇳
| Service Category | Typical Tip (in Rupees ₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants & Cafés | 5-10% of bill if no service charge | Always check bill first |
| Hotel Housekeeping | ₹100-₹150 per night | Tip daily, not at checkout |
| Bellhops/Porters | ₹50-₹100 per bag | More if lots of bags |
| Tour Guides | ₹100-₹500 per day | Depending on length/quality |
| Taxi / App Drivers | Round up by ₹20-₹50 | Optional but appreciated |
| Spa & Salon Services | ₹50-₹200 | Depends on service quality |
Understanding Tipping Culture in India
Tipping, or “baksheesh” as locals might call it, is considered a personal expression of appreciation rather than a hard rule.
Unlike the U.S., where not tipping can be seen as rude, in India, it’s more relaxed — but it’s still very welcomed, especially from tourists.
In bigger cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, tipping is pretty common at nice restaurants and hotels.
In smaller towns or rural areas, people may not expect it — but if you feel someone went above and beyond, tipping a little is a lovely gesture.
How Much to Tip at Restaurants and Cafés
Typical Tip: 5-10% if no service charge
When eating out, always check your bill first. Some places automatically add a “service charge” (usually 10%). If that’s already there, no extra tip needed.
If not, tipping around 5-10% of your total bill is perfect.
✅ Quick story: In a nice restaurant in Delhi, I left a ₹200 tip for a ₹2,000 bill — waiter smiled and gave a genuine “thank you” that felt more meaningful than any fancy handshake.
A small tip can really brighten someone’s day here.
Tipping Hotel Staff: Who, When, and How Much
Typical Tip for Housekeeping: ₹100-₹150 per night
Bellhop Tip: ₹50-₹100 per bag
Hotels are where tipping feels the most natural.
- Housekeeping: Leave ₹100-₹150 each morning on the bedside table. Daily is better than just at checkout because the same person might not clean your room every day.
- Bellboys/Porters: ₹50-₹100 per bag they help you carry.
- Concierge Services: If someone gets you a special reservation or goes out of their way, ₹200-₹500 as a tip is appreciated.
Pro Tip: In 5-star hotels, people tend to tip a bit more, but don’t stress. Indian hospitality staff will never “expect” it like in the U.S.
Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers
Typical Tip for Tour Guides: ₹100-₹500 per day
If you’re doing a full-day tour or a multi-day trip, tipping your guide is a wonderful way to say thanks.
- For half-day city tours: ₹100-₹200.
- Full-day tours: ₹300-₹500.
- Multi-day trips: ₹500+ depending on service quality.
For private drivers who take you sightseeing, rounding up or tipping ₹200-₹400 daily is good practice.
Remember, these folks often rely on tips to supplement their wages — your generosity is appreciated way more than you might realize.
Tipping Taxi and App-Based Drivers (Uber, Ola)
Typical Tip: Round up by ₹20-₹50
Taxi and rickshaw drivers don’t usually expect tips, but rounding up the fare is a simple, kind move.
On Uber and Ola apps, you’ll see a tipping option after the ride — a ₹20-₹50 digital tip is perfect for polite, safe drivers.
For airport pickups, if the driver helps with heavy luggage, ₹100 extra cash is thoughtful.
Spa, Salon, and Wellness Services
Typical Tip: ₹50-₹200
Got a relaxing massage or a new haircut? Tip your spa therapist or hairdresser around ₹50-₹200 depending on the service.
In luxury spas, slightly higher tips (₹300-₹400) are fine but not mandatory.
Tip directly in cash, if possible, to make sure the person gets it.
Final Tips for Tipping in India 🇺🇸➡️🇮🇳
- Carry Small Bills: ₹50, ₹100 notes are your best friend.
- Be Discreet: Hand tips quietly, it’s seen as more respectful.
- Don’t Stress: Locals are usually just happy you’re trying to respect the culture.
- Service Quality Matters: Excellent service? Tip more. Mediocre service? Smaller tip or skip politely.