Rishikesh:
Shopkeepers in Rishikesh have stood up to the saying "Athithi Devo Bhava" helping tourist facing difficulties after the government's sudden big currency notes ban earlier this month.
"All tourists have been adversely affected by the demonetisation move. The tourists wait for hours in queues to exchange their currency for just 2,000 rupees, which isn't enough, so we have pitch in to help them," says Shivanand, a shopkeeper, speaking for many from his profession.
Antonio, who has come Spain, says "I give 500 rupee notes, they change with hundred rupee notes... in some places they offer you food without even money."
Joey from Canada has a similar experience to share. "There are restaurants where we can order food and we can pay later so that's nice, many people have been helpful that ways."
But there have been some disappointments for many who had to cut short their trip due to the cash crunch.
Tourists are not the only ones who seem to be affected by demonetisation. Local hotel owners and money exchangers are also strained by the sudden dip in footfall of tourists.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8 announced that high denomination notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 will no longer be legal tender to fight against black money and corruption.