travel to india sim card

3 Easy Ways To Get a Sim Card in India For Tourists!

Categories Asia , India

Is it hard to get a Sim Card in India ? You may have heard, or you may read online that getting a sim card in India for tourists is hard. This used to be the case and although it’s still not as easy as getting a sim card in other countries, things are changing and how to get a sim card in India and how to buy a sim card in India is now pretty easy.

So in this India travel blog, let me help you work out which prepaid India sim card is best for you, what the best sim card in India for tourists is, and how to get a sim card in India in 3 easy ways!

Quickly though, let’s cover the question – Do I need to get a sim card in India?  My answer – YES!

Sim Card in India

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best Sim Card in India

Airtel and Vodafone are India’s biggest network providers however because of how big India is the coverage is not the same all over the country.

A few years ago when I was last in India, I found that Vodafone and Airtel work well in North India but Airtel worked better for me in South India than my Vodafone India sim card did.

Jio is another popular network provider that I have not tried.

Do I need an unlocked phone to visit India?

To get a local sim card (in all countries), you must have an unlocked phone!

If your phone is not unlocked you will not be able to get a sim card in India. Instead, your best choice for internet in India is hiring a wireless device so you can still be connected in India! A lot of Americans have locked phones and you cannot buy an Indian sim card in the USA so you will need to hire a wifi device.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

How To Get A Sim Card in India?

1. getting a sim card in india at the airport.

You can buy a sim card at Delhi Airport which I have done many times, and I have been told recently you can also buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport .

Getting a SIM card at the airport is always the best idea because the shops are as you leave arrivals , the process is quick and easy and you’ll be connected with plenty of data with 2-3 hours of arriving in India.

Here’s my full blog post on how to get a sim card in Delhi airport with prices and packages.

Based on my past visits, the only Indian sim card provider at the airport is Airtel but the coverage and package they offer is pretty much the best sim card in India for tourists to get so that’s all you need.

If you’re flying into Delhi, I 100% recommend buying your sim card in India at Delhi Airport  as it is the easiest way to get a sim card in India, you don’t need to bring copies of your passport and photos to them as you have to do in the options below, they do it all for you.

But make sure you read my post on getting a SIM card in Delhi here because the men often scam tourists with the price so make sure you don’t get caught out!

At the moment I only know of Delhi Airport and Mumbai Airport as Airports in India to get a sim card in.

But if you arrive at Amritsar, Bangalore, Goa or any other main international airports, look for an Airtel store when you leave arrivals as there may be one!

And let me know in the comments section of this post if you see one!

Related Post:  10 Delhi Travel Tips to See & Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist!

• Make sure you check out these posts to help you plan your India trip further!
• How to book a Train in India Online!
• Where to Stay in Delhi Accommodation Guide!
• Packing List For India & What To Wear in India as a Female!
• A 2 Week India Itinerary For Your First Trip To India!
• Golden Triangle India Itinerary for 1 Week in India!
• ALL MY INDIA BLOG POSTS.

2. Getting a Sim Card in India at your Hotel or Hostel

Another good option and the second-best way to get an India prepaid sim is to ask your accommodation to help you.

This works best if you are staying in a hostel in India as they are set up for travellers arriving and wanting a sim card.

For example,  Backpacker Panda in Mumbai, Colaba  offers this service which I used when I first arrived in India. Moustache Hostel New Delhi  also offers this service. (I recommend both of these hostels as great places to stay in India by the way!)

Getting an India sim card for tourists this way will cost you a bit extra as they have to add on a commission for the hostel and you literally have someone from Vodafone Sim Card India or Airtel visit the hostel to complete the paperwork with you.

You will need photocopies of your passport and India visa, along with a passport photo to give to the sim card guy but the hostel can help you with these.

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

3. Getting a Sim Card in India from a Store

Vodafone and Airtel are India’s largest network provider but I would avoid going into an actual Vodafone store or Airtel store which is how I initially assumed you would get a sim card.

This is because you’ll likely be asked for more information like an Indian number and Indian address to register your sim.. which you do not have!

Instead, if you can’t get a sim card at the Airport, or through your accommodation, go to a small shop in a local market for example which seems to dabble in everything phone-related and lookout for signs that say they sell sim cards .

This is what I did in Kochi in South India and it was so easy. If you have trouble finding one be sure to ask your accommodation for help.

I asked for a sim, he gave me a card of the options. He copied my passport, I gave a passport photo, I filled in the contract, handed over the money (which was a much better price than my first time), put my sim in 1 day later, called the number he gave me to verify it was me using my passport number, and I had internet!

However, this is still a more difficult option than the ones above as these stores are used to Indian people buying sim cards rather than foreign tourists  looking for a mobile sim card in India.

Prices of Prepaid Sim Cards in India

When it comes to the cost of sim cards in India, there are different international sim card packages in India.

Generally, you can get packages for  28 days, 60 days, 82 days and 90 days .

You may be offered a certain one, you may just be given what you’re given (which you’ll get used to in India!). If you are staying in India for a few months as I did for 4 months , make sure you get a 90-day sim card in India!

What I love about the data sim cards in India is that the data is PER DAY! For example, when I last got Delhi Airport sim card package, the deal was:

• 900Rs / £10.00 / $12.50
• 1.4gb of data each day which refreshes each day.
• Unlimited calls to Indian numbers.
• Validity for 82 days.

*Note this price and package might have changed as this was pre-pandemic.

There is talk about there being a Delhi Airport free sim card but I didn’t see this in Delhi Airport and wasn’t offered it at any point so I wouldn’t rely on this, to be honest.

Remember to read here how to get a Sim Card in Delhi Airport .

I hope this helped you with how to get a sim card in India!

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Monday 6th of November 2023

Hi, thank you for this psot. However, do you know if I can get a SIM card at the Delhi airport transit area? As I have a 7 hour transit to the next connecting flight out to another remote city. Also, do we need to bring the copies and photo you mentioned or will they do it?

TheWanderingQuinn

Hello, no, I don't believe you can get a SIM card without leaving the airport completely into arrivals unfortunately. They will make the copies.

Saturday 9th of September 2023

Hi, I can confirm the shop at Delhi Airport. [September 2023] They take cash only. You may pay in Dollars or Euro, too. The plan by now is 1.5Gb per day, inside India phone flat for ~6 Dollars (28 days). Passport is copied, photo taken. They assist very kindly with the form. Even with cue still worth it. Faster with groups of travelers.

Tuesday 19th of March 2024

@Fab, thankyou I'm worrying about this as I am on my own , although with a group i know no one. I will just be hoping no big que.

Sunday 10th of September 2023

Thank you for the update

Monday 3rd of April 2023

Bangalore this week, there was a shop selling SIM cards at arrivals but when we asked him he said, "system down,," and I still don't have one. Grateful for your post!

Thanks for letting me know!

Second time I have done this.

In late March 2023, travelled from Australia landed at New Delhi airport went to the Airtel counter and asked for a tourist sim card. Was told 450rupees for 1mth (28 days?) and 1.2 GB download per day (the app says 1.5GB per day). They took a photocopy of my passport and they took a photo of me as well.

You will be advised to call a phone number after a couple of hours and you be provided with the details you need.

This process took about 5mins.

At the hotel room put in the sim card, called the number and followed the prompts to set up. Took less then a couple of minutes to do that.

Tuesday 16th of April 2024

@Nick, thank you!!!! Will be arriving in Delhi on Thursday.

@Nick, hi I'm due to go to Delhi in 3 weeks time . Single women . I'm really struggling with the phone SIM card dilemma. I'm with a tour from the UK so the airport will be busy with the Heathrow flight all probably wanting Sims . With having a guide meeting us I'm just wondering if they do all that for you . I have ordered a lebera SIM which I can activate in India I'm hoping that may be an alternative. Have you any experience with lebera .? Thankyou

Monday 20th of March 2023

I just went to an Airtel office in Mumbai and got a SIM card with my passport and a copy of my visa. They took a digital picture, so there is no need to have one. The big hang-up was they needed to be able to send a one-time text to someone who already has an Indian number and get the code back to complete the process.

Great to know! Thank you.

India SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 24, 2024 | Asia , India , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting India soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing an India SIM card .

In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in India in person and online. We’ll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports them.

Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually need a SIM card in India. If you don’t mind not having Internet, you’ll likely find free Wifi in restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels.

That said, if you need data to get around, call a cab, or translate Hindi – you may want to get a SIM card for your travels in India.

Best SIM Cards In India

If you’re traveling in India, we recommend using a SIM card from Airtel, Jio, Vi, or Airalo. (I’ll get back to Airalo later on, so keep reading to learn more!)

That said, if you’re planning on visiting other countries during your trip to Asia , you might want to make sure to pick an option that offers coverage in other Asian countries.

How To Buy A SIM Card In India

You can either buy an Indian prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind. And, when you see a shop, you might also have limited options.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store. Note that you may need your passport to buy one.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival. So, if you prefer to be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase an Asia prepaid SIM card online.

Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

Now, let’s take a look at the data plans offered by Airtel, Jio, and Vi.

Airtel SIM Cards

Airtel offers two different types of tourist plans:

• 1.5 GB per day, valid for 28 days for INR 299 ($3.61)
• 1.5 GB per day, valid for 56 days for INR 479 ($5.79)

Jio SIM Cards

Jio has three different prepaid plans available:

• 2 GB per day, valid for 28 days for INR 299 ($3.61)
• 2 GB per day, valid for 84 days for INR 719 ($8.69)
• 2 GB per day, valid for 365 days for INR 2999 ($36.26)

As you can see, you get slightly more data than Airtel.

Vi SIM Cards

Vi offers four main SIM-only plans for tourists:

• 2 GB per day, valid for 28 days for INR 499 ($6.03)
• 3 GB per day, valid for 28 days for INR 601 ($7.27)

Overall, we think Jio is the best option if you plan to buy your SIM card in person. That said, any would do if you can’t find their store!

How To Buy An India Prepaid SIM Card Online

If you wish to have your SIM card ready for your arrival, you could purchase it online or on websites like Amazon.

You’ll find different plans on Amazon. For example, the OneSimCard works in more than 200+ countries and gives you data for $0.01 per MB. India is included.

But there are many other options worth considering, so have a look and make sure the countries you plan on visiting are listed.

Browse your options on Amazon

Another option is to purchase a prepaid Asian SIM card on SimOptions .

They currently offer one data plan in India:

• 10 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

Browse your options on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy an eSIM card for India or, if you’re traveling to multiple countries, an eSIM plan for Asia.

How To Buy An eSIM Card For India

eSIM is a new concept that allows you to have a virtual SIM card inside your phone. If your mobile phone supports eSIM cards – it’s definitely one of the best options to get data in India.

Curious? Learn more about eSIMs for travelers on eSIM Roamers .

I started using eSIM as soon as my mobile phone supported it. And I first tried it when visiting my family in Canada. To buy eSIMs, I usually use Airalo .

Keep reading to learn more about the best eSIMs for India.

Airalo India

If you want an eSIM for India, you could purchase one on Airalo . This website offers many eSIM cards worldwide and special plans for Asia and India.

I’ve been using Airalo for several months, and it works fine.

Here are the options available :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $8
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $10.50
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $25
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $40

Alternatively, if you’re traveling in other countries, you can try Discover Global, which offers coverage in 124 countries, including India.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $17
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 60 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 180 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 365 days for $69

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country.

Suppose you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip. In that case, it might be because you’re connecting automatically to networks and need to select a network manually instead.

When you purchase the eSIM, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country.

Go to Airalo

Holafly India

Alternatively, you could look at your options on Holafly . You can read our Holafly review to learn more about this eSIM store.

Here’s an overview of their plans for India:

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $29
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $37
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $44
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $47
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $59
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $79

Go to Holafly

Final Thoughts On SIM Cards In India

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in India or even an eSIM for your travels in India is pretty straightforward.

You’ll even be able to stay connected wherever you go in Asia without changing your SIM card, especially if you purchase an Asia plan.

I believe the eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in India if you wish to have data upon your arrival. This way, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a SIM card.

Obviously, you need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling to India soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Best place to live in India
• 2 days in Mumbai
• Holi in Mumbai

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

• Travel Sims

Best Tourist Sim Cards in India in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to India, having a reliable source of internet access is essential. Whether it’s finding your way around unfamiliar cities, discovering the top-rated restaurants, making online reservations, hailing a taxi, or sharing memorable moments with your loved ones, having internet access on the go can greatly enhance your travel experience.

While roaming is an option, the costs can quickly accumulate, especially when traveling internationally. Therefore, it is advisable to consider either an eSIM or a local SIM card to take advantage of the more affordable local phone rates.

Thankfully, obtaining an eSIM or a local SIM card in India is a hassle-free process. Nevertheless, it is important to understand which option is better suited for your needs. This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information regarding purchasing a SIM card in India, including the most up-to-date pricing and recommendations on the best SIM card available for you to buy.

Table of Contents

Best sim card in india for tourists.

The best sim card in India is the 299 INR prepaid sim card with 2GB data per day by Jio.

There are three mobile internet operators in India: Airtel, Jio and Vi (Vodafone). All three operators offer fairly similar prices and packages and all three will work fine, however, Jio has the best coverage across the country which is why I recommend it slightly above the others.

For the price, you really can’t beat any of the local prepaid sim cards, however, if you’re looking for the most convenient option then I also have to recommend purchasing an Airalo eSim . With an eSim you can easily order your sim card now then activate it at the airport when you arrive – it’s much easier than finding a store and buying in person!

India Sim Card Prices

A Tourist Sim Card in India costs around 299 INR in May 2024, however, the exact price will often depend on the store you visit and the plan you choose.

Alternatively, an eSim in India will cost between $4.50 USD and $27 USD. This, again, depends on how much data you require and which eSim provider you choose.

I generally recommend this Airalo plan for most tourists visiting India which includes 5GB of data which is valid for 30 days and costs $16 USD.

India Sim Card Providers

In India, the main SIM card providers are Airtel, Jio, and Vi. Airtel, operated by Bharti Airtel Limited, is one of the largest telecommunication companies and offers extensive network coverage across the country. With a wide range of prepaid and postpaid plans, Airtel provides various services like voice calling, high-speed internet, and digital entertainment.

Jio, owned by Reliance Industries Limited, revolutionized the telecom sector with its affordable data plans and high-speed 4G network. It quickly gained popularity by offering unlimited voice calls and cheap internet packages. Jio’s extensive network and budget-friendly plans have attracted millions of users.

Vi, formerly known as Vodafone Idea Limited, is a merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular. It offers a wide range of services, including voice calls, data, and digital entertainment. Vi, known for its strong network coverage and diverse data plans, caters to a large consumer base in India.

Airtel Tourist Sim

Airtel, one of India’s leading telecom companies, offers convenient tourist SIM cards for travelers visiting the country. With excellent network coverage across India, Airtel ensures uninterrupted connectivity. Their SIM cards provide data, calling, and messaging services, giving tourists hassle-free communication. Airtel’s tourist SIM cards can be easily obtained at airports, hotels, or retail outlets. They come with various packages suitable for different durations and budgets, making them a reliable choice for travelers exploring India.

Airtel India Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Airtel tourist sim card in India is 299 INR.

The plan offered by Airtel stores includes 1.5GB data per day + unlimited calls valid for 28 days.

Jio Tourist Sim

Jio, a leading telecom operator in India, offers convenient tourist SIM cards for travelers. These SIM cards provide exceptional coverage and high-speed internet access across the country, making it easier for tourists to stay connected. With budget-friendly plans, Jio allows tourists to make unlimited calls, send texts, and browse the internet hassle-free. Jio’s reliable network and affordable tariffs make it a preferred choice for tourists visiting India.

Jio India Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Jio tourist sim card in India is 299 INR.

The plan offered by Jio stores offers 2GB data per day valid for 28 days.

Vi Tourist Sim

Vi, formerly known as Vodafone Idea, offers excellent tourist sim card options in India. Their packages cater specifically to the needs of travelers, providing easy connectivity and hassle-free internet access across the country. Vi’s sim cards offer high-speed data, unlimited calls within India, and access to various popular apps. With Vi sim cards, tourists can explore India confidently, stay connected, and share their incredible experiences with friends and family back home.

Vi India Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Vi tourist sim card in India is 299 INR.

The plan offered by Vi stores includes 1.5GB data per day valid for 28 days.

How to Get a Sim Card in India

Identify mobile providers: Airtel, Jio and Vi are your best options in India.

Find your nearest store: Locate a store or retailer by searching on Google Maps for your nearest store or asking at your hotel reception. I’ve never had issues finding a store as they can usually be found in major cities, shopping centers, or tourist areas. If possible, I always recommend to to avoid airports and head in to an official store in the city.

Bring the necessary documents: It is always a good idea to carry your passport or identification documents for sim card registration purposes. We’ve found most providers will need to confirm your identity to provide a sim card and it can be a major hassle to head to a store only to have to come back again later with your passport.

Choose your plan: Either request the plan you are after or consult with the staff in the store to select the right plan for you. My recommendations at the beginning of this guide are a good starting point, but the staff will usually be able to suggest the best option.

Pay and activate your card: Pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for you.

Test: It’s always a good idea to check that you can access the internet before you leave the store. I always search for something on Google then refresh my Instagram feed to check it’s working fine.

Where to Get a Sim Card in India

At the airport.

Buying a prepaid sim card for India at the airport is usually considered the most convenient option for travellers arriving by plane.

However, airport stores selling sim cards are almost guaranteed to charge inflated prices, so if you are a cost-conscious traveller then you should definitely buy your sim card from a store in the city center.

In addition to this, we would argue that buying physical sim cards at all aren’t particularly convenient now that most people use esim compatible phones. If you are looking for the most convenient option, then buying an esim before you arrive or with the airport wifi is much easier and will save you having to queue up or communicate with staff.

If you must purchase a sim card at the airport in India then you will be in luck. All major international airports in India have stores selling sim cards. Despite the prices being higher than normal, the staff are knowledgable and will be able to get you set up with the correct sim card relatively quickly.

If you want to avoid the inflated sim card prices you’ll find at the airport and your phone isn’t esim compatible, then you’re going to need to head in to a store to buy your sim card.

I recommend visiting one of the official retail stores of the mobile internet operators such as Airtel, Jio and Vi. Your best option is to enter their names into Google Maps and find the branch closest to your hotel or accommodation. Typically the staff in the official stores in India are knowledgable and helpful which means you can ensure you’ll walk away with a functioning sim card.

Despite this, it’s always a good idea to check your internet is working before you leave the store by loading a Google search results page and your preferred social media app. You should also ensure you always bring your passport with you when purchasing a sim card in case they need to register it.

If you like to be prepared and would prefer to arrive in India with your sim card all sorted and your phone ready to connect to the internet immediately then you should look into purchasing a sim card online.

The first option is to buy your sim card in advance via SimOptions, which is a company that will prepare and ship a sim card directly to your door. It’s a reliable and effective service, but with the invention of eSims it’s becoming obsolete.

The better option is to purchase an eSim online. We’ve written more on that below!

An eSim is a digital version of a traditional sim card and is most likely the future of connectivity for mobile devices. The convenience of no longer visiting a store, handing over your passport and purchasing a physical sim card is quickly making physical sim cards obsolete in favour of eSims.

We recommend Airalo’s eSim when travelling to India. The Airalo India eSim offers fast internet speeds, wide coverage and extremely competitive prices making it a far more compelling option than purchasing a physical sim card from any of the local sim card providers.

In order to get set up with an Airalo eSim , all you need to do is visit Airalo here and purchase the eSim online (the $16 USD plan is suitable for most travellers). Once you’ve purchased the sim card Airalo will email you instructions and a QR code. Following these instructions should take just a couple of minutes, then you’ll have a sim card in India without having to venture outside.

Airalo India

Our preferred eSim provider in India is Airalo . We used them, alongside a local sim card on another device, for our most recent trip to India and found the service to be equal to the local sim card but without the hassle of acquiring a sim card in a store.

Airalo’s India eSim uses the Airtel network to provide data and connect users to the internet. You can expect very good coverage and reliability with the Airtel networknetwork as they are amongst the best mobile internet operators in India.

Here are the plans and prices for Airalo’s India eSim:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $4.50 USD 3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $11 USD 5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $16 USD 10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $27 USD

For most travellers we recommend the 5GB data plan for $16 USD which is valid for 30 days. Some travellers may prefer a larger plan, whilst travellers visiting for just a couple of days may be fine with a smaller plan.

Holafly India

An alternative eSim provider we can recommend is Holafly.

Holafly’s eSim is a suitable option for travellers who require large amounts of data, such as digital nomads and people who work online while they travel. All of Holafly’s India eSims offer unlimited data.

Holafly’s India eSim uses the Airtelnetwork to provide data and connect users to the internet. This network will provide reliable speeds and coverage while in India

Here are the plans and prices for Holafly’s India eSim:

6GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $44 USD

What is an eSim?

The eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card embedded within a device like a phone or tablet. Unlike traditional SIM cards, it does not require physical insertion or removal.

Instead, the eSIM is part of the device’s hardware and can be remotely activated and programmed by a mobile network operator. This enables users to switch between different networks or plans without physically changing SIM cards.

eSIM technology offers convenience and flexibility, especially for frequent travelers or those who frequently change networks. It eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, making it easier to manage multiple connections on one device.

To activate an eSIM, users can scan a QR code or enter activation details provided by their network operator. Once activated, the device can connect to the chosen network and access voice, data, and messaging services like a regular SIM card.

Why Use an eSim?

Using an eSIM can be beneficial for several reasons:

– Convenience: No need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when switching networks or plans, which is helpful for frequent travelers. – Dual SIM functionality: Allows for two active mobile numbers on the same device, useful for separating personal and work numbers or managing multiple phone lines. – Space-saving: As eSIMs are embedded within the device, it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card slot, freeing up space for other components or making devices smaller. – Remote provisioning: Activation and management of mobile plans can be done remotely, without needing a physical SIM card or visiting a store, providing flexibility and convenience. – Future-proofing: With increasing support for eSIMs, using an eSIM-compatible device ensures access to new services and offerings as they become available.

In summary, eSIM technology offers flexibility, convenience, and future-proofing for mobile connectivity.

eSim Supported Phones

eSIM technology is becoming increasingly popular and is supported by a growing number of smartphones and other devices. Here are some examples of eSIM-compatible phones:

Apple iPhone series (iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, etc.): Apple was one of the early adopters of eSIM technology and offers support for eSIM on various iPhone models.

Google Pixel series (Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 5, etc.): Google’s Pixel smartphones also support eSIM functionality, allowing users to activate and use eSIMs.

Samsung Galaxy series (Galaxy S22, Galaxy Note 20, etc.): Many of Samsung’s flagship devices now come with eSIM support, enabling users to utilize eSIM technology.

OnePlus devices (OnePlus 7, OnePlus 8, etc.): OnePlus has included eSIM support in some of its smartphone models, offering users the flexibility of using eSIMs.

Motorola Razr (2020): The latest iteration of the iconic Motorola Razr features eSIM compatibility, enabling users to use eSIMs for cellular connectivity.

These are just a few examples, and the list of eSIM-compatible phones continues to expand as more manufacturers embrace this technology. There’s a very strong chance your phone supports eSims so if you’re unsure we recommend looking it up on our list of eSim supported phones .

How to Use an eSim

Using an eSim is new for many travellers, however, the good news is it’s surprisingly easy to get set up – even for the technologically challenged!

Here’s a general guide on how to use an eSIM:

Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Many newer smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other devices are eSIM compatible including all iPhones produced since 2018.

Obtain an eSIM: There are multiple ways to acquire an eSIM. You can purchase an eSIM online from a provider like Airalo (which we recommend) or directly from a mobile network operator. Some devices also allow you to scan a QR code provided by your carrier to download the eSIM profile.

Activate the eSIM: Your eSim provider will send you instructions to activate the sim. This will usually involve scanning a QR code, entering an activation code, or downloading the eSIM profile directly onto your device.

Set up the eSIM: Once activated, your device will guide you through the eSIM setup process. This typically involves selecting the eSIM as your preferred mobile plan, configuring settings like data roaming, and entering any necessary authentication details.

Enjoy the Connection: Once the eSIM is set up, you can use it as you would with a physical SIM card. Make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and use data services as needed. You can also switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. I've travelled all around the world, using and testing countless travel sim cards along the way. I'm the founder of and writer for Travel Sim Expert where I write guides to help travellers stay connected all around the world.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. Travel Sim Expert is a blog dedicated to helping you find the best sim card for you, no matter where you are or what your budget is. 

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Best India SIM Card for Tourists

Quick facts, types of sim cards in india.

• Which Company is the Best and Why

Phone Specifications

• Where can I get an Indian SIM Card
• How Much Does an Indian SIM Card Cost

How to Activate Your SIM Card

How to top up your indian sim card.

If you are traveling to India soon and need to stay connected to friends, family, and fellow travelers while you are out and about then you will need an Indian SIM Card. Getting a local SIM card when traveling grants you access to important services in the country such as shopping, ordering taxis, food delivery, maps, and mobile data.

There are four main phone service providers in India. Among the four, Vodafone-Idea and Airtel are the two biggest providers. SIM cards can be bought in the airport or outside the airport by providing your passport, visa, and passport photo.

• Airtel is the leading carrier in India. Travelers can select a plan that gives 3GB of LTE data and unlimited calls within the country for as low as 300 rupees (US$ 6), with a validity of 28 days.
• In most western countries, mobile phones are locked to the frequency of a single mobile service provider. It is useful to have a dual SIM phone or have your phone unlocked by your provider.
• Buying SIM cards at the airport is the most convenient way to get one. You can typically find kiosks selling SIM cards in the arrival hall which are located almost immediately after you clear customs.
• You will need to show your passport, visa, and passport photo to get a SIM card.
• Indian SIM cards need to be activated by the provider on their network. This can take anywhere from a few hours up to 48 hours.

You can choose between two types of SIM cards. One is the postpaid SIM Card where you pay for the services like calling and data after you have used them, usually at the end of the month. Another is the prepaid SIM card where you should pay first before using the services.

Postpaid SIM Card

A postpaid SIM card is one where the services like calling, data, and texting are paid after they are used. They cost more than prepaid plans and the bill is sent at the end of a month-long cycle. This type of SIM is not available for foreign travelers.

Prepaid SIM Card

A prepaid SIM Card is one where services like calling, data, and texting are paid in advance. Using this type of SIM Card is comparatively cheaper. However, there are some disadvantages such as need constant topping up and getting unwanted text messages.

Also, for Indians, the activation of the SIM card is almost immediate and is done through their ID number called Aadhar. For foreigners, the activation can take a long time. In some cases, it may even take up to 2 or 3 days.

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Which Company is the Best and Why?

There are four main service providers in India. They all offer 4G/LTE, but not all have good coverage across the entire country. The top two providers for network coverage are Vodafone-Idea and Airtel and most travelers should opt for one or the other.

Airtel is the leading carrier in the country, with over 300 million users. Travelers can select a plan that gives 3GB of LTE data and unlimited calls within the country for as low as 300 rupees (US $6). This is valid for 28 days from the time of purchase.

Other carriers have fairly strict requirements such as requiring foreigners needing to submit details of a local reference as well as their residence details within the country. Vodafone-Idea does not offer nationwide LTE coverage. If you use their service, there will be times when the connection will switch to 2G when traveling between states.

In most western countries, mobile phones are locked to the frequency of a single mobile service provider. You will not be able to insert another SIM or use it with another carrier unless you first get your phone unlocked by your provider.

Even if unlocked, your phone may still not work properly unless the GSM bandwidth of your phone is compatible. You will need a dual, tri-band, or quad-band phone that works on 900 MHz to 2500 MHz. Check first to see if your phone is compatible before buying a foreign SIM.

It is also useful to have a phone with dual SIM slots. This way, all you have to do is insert the new prepaid Indian SIM into the additional slot. Most service providers in India now offer micro-SIM cards.

Where can I get an Indian SIM Card?

Buying a SIM card in India is quite an experience. Depending on where you buy it and the person selling it to you, the process may be relatively quick and painless or long and difficult. The best place to buy your SIM is in the arrivals hall of the airport although this is more expensive than buying a card outside.

Buying an Indian SIM Card at the Airport

If travelers are flying into an international airport, SIM Cards are available at kiosks in the arrival hall which are located almost immediately after you clear customs. Remember that you will need to provide your passport, visa, and passport photo to get a SIM Card.

The downside of this method is that it is more expensive than the SIMs you can get in the city. In the end, travelers will have to choose between cost and convenience.

Buying an Indian SIM Outside the Airport

Alternatively, SIM cards can also be bought from the stores or cell phone vendors in downtown areas and shopping malls. The procedure for activating the SIM is similar with both options. The benefits of buying a SIM card outside the airport are lower prices and more choices.

How Much Does an Indian SIM Card Cost?

When buying a SIM Card at the airport, Airtel typically charges 900 rupees (US$ 13). This price bundle includes 1.5 GB of data and 100 domestic texts per day, plus unlimited domestic calls which are valid for four weeks.

Buying the same bundle elsewhere will cost around 250 rupees. There is also an extra charge for the SIM Card, costing between 50 to 100 rupees. Internet packages are not subject to roaming charges in India. Incoming calls or outgoing calls within the same network do not include extra charges.

If you plan to make a lot of calls, consider purchasing a SIM card in the state where you intend to spend most of your time. Alternatively, there are some packages that include free calls throughout the whole of India.

The Indian SIM Card needs to be activated by the provider on their network. This can take anywhere from a few hours to 48 hours.

To complete the activation process, the owner of the SIM Card needs to call a number and answer several questions including date of birth and the last four last digits of your passport number. Different providers will have different numbers to call. For Airtel, it is 59059.

This process usually requires the phone to be turned on and off several times. This will all be explained at the time of purchase by the vendor.

If you run out of credit on your phone, you might continue to receive incoming calls, but will not be able to make calls or send messages. Topping up the SIM can be done from a kiosk of the service provider at any location in India.

It is always a good idea to check your balance after you buy the top-up and while still at the vendor. Each provider has a code for checking your balance. With Airtel, dialing *123*11# will give you a message showing your remaining data, call, and SMS credit.

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Home » Asia » India » Buying a SIM Card in India – Stay Connected in 2024!

Buying a SIM Card in India – Stay Connected in 2024!

If you’re getting ready to travel to India, you’re probably excitedly planning all the places you’ll visit and drawing up lists of all the things you’ll need to pack – camera, chargers, sun cream, local currency, and your all-important passport.

One thing that’s often overlooked when planning a trip is sorting out a local sim card. Nothing undoes a relaxing holiday like returning home to a phone bill buckling under the weight of roaming charges you incurred without realizing it. Worse still, imagine being stranded in the Indian countryside without a map or GPS to help you because you’ve suddenly lost coverage.

In this post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about choosing and buying a sim card for India. We’ll tackle topics like price, coverage, and the best place to buy sim cards in India.

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Why Buy a SIM Card for India?

We’ve become so dependent on our smartphones to get us through our days – more so when we’re traveling. From using translation apps, navigating bustling cities using your phone’s GPS, and capturing all the sights and sounds and sharing it all on social media, our phones are invaluable tools. So when you pack for India , remember to keep SIM card stuff firmly in mind.

Sure, your native provider will assure you that your SIM card will  probably  work throughout your visit to India . Probably  just isn’t going to cut it when you’re traveling in a foreign country. For a start, when you’re relying on your phone’s GPS to get around, especially through the bustling cities in India or the mountain areas of Northern India, you don’t want to lose connection at a crucial moment. The reality is that from one minute to the next, you run the risk of losing connection or experiencing painfully slow connectivity when using your native SIM in a foreign country.  

Not only that, using your native SIM card internationally can end up being eye-wateringly expensive. Inflated data prices and roaming charges can leave you with a hefty bill after your trip.

Remember, that when you’re roaming using your native SIM, you may be charged every time you receive a call. That’s right, incoming calls cost you as well as outgoing calls!

If you’re from the United States , there’s one crucial step you don’t want to overlook. Before you head off on your travels to India make sure your phone is not locked to a network as is often the case. If you can’t unlock your phone from a network, no international SIM card will work on your phone.  

Because of these things, we would always recommend getting a local SIM card vs an international in India. 

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Buying a SIM Card for India – Things To Consider

Where to buy a sim card in india, best indian sim card providers, what is the best sim card in india for tourists.

Choosing a SIM card for India is quite a personal choice. What makes a SIM card the absolute best for one person might not work as well for another. How much data and call time you need will vary from person to person, and of course, your budget will dictate your choices too.

Here, we cover the major things you need to consider: 

Price is an obvious factor that determines what we purchase and what we don’t. However, when it comes to picking a SIM card for India, cheap is good, but it isn’t always better. Make sure you read the fine print on deals. 

Of course, getting a local SIM is always going to be more cost-effective than using your native SIM with international roaming. 

There are various prepaid SIM card packages in India. With three major networks in the country, competition is pretty stiff, so there’s usually a deal to be had. There are a variety of packages especially aimed at the tourist market too.

The consensus is that Jio offers the cheaper rates, while Vodafone is slightly more costly (costly by local standards as India is cheap to visit ). However, while the price is important, it isn’t the only factor to consider. 

The really great thing about getting a local SIM card in India is that usually, the data in packages are per day. You read that right – per day. Your data bundle will reset every day, so keep that in mind when purchasing your plans to make sure you don’t overspend on data thinking that it needs to last longer. 

One way to make sure you don’t over or underspend on data is to have a good grasp of your average daily usage when you’re at home. Then make allowances for the fact that you’re going to be using more data when you’re traveling, and that should give you an idea of what size data packages you should spring for. 

Coverage in India is a tricky one and something that will more than likely determine which provider you go with. This is one factor you never want to overlook, but when choosing a SIM card in India, this is a critical element to consider, and one worth spending time on. 

Because the country is so large, coverage is not the same across all networks. Therefore, it’s essential to purchase from the best provider for the area you will be visiting once you know where in India you will be staying. The mountains in the north pose a connectivity concern, while some more remote areas will also offer limited connectivity options. If you are staying in Goa , then be pleased to know it enjoys a pretty decent connectivity.

Vodafone and Airtel are reportedly best if you’re traveling to northern India, while Airtel is good in the south. Jio has excellent 4G coverage and is a good option for those more remote areas.

Bureaucracy

India has a reputation for making it difficult for tourists to purchase a prepaid SIM. While this was certainly true in the past, it seems things are getting much easier. You do still need to provide a bunch of documents before you can purchase a SIM card in India, but as long as you come prepared, you should find that the process is not as frustrating. 

As a tourist seeking a prepaid SIM card, you’ll need to provide a photocopy of your visa, your original passport and a copy of your passport, and passport-size photos. The general rule is that you’ll only need one photo, but we recommend taking four along just in case, as some service providers ask for more. 

If you’re wanting a post-paid option, you will need additional documentation including a local reference with proof of identity and local proof of address. 

Always check the lifespan of the SIM card as these can rarely be extended past this date. SIM cards in India that are geared for tourists usually have a validity period of 28 days, but there are options for 60 days, 82 days, and 90 days, and even as few as just two days. 

Your plan options increase when you purchase your SIM card for India at certain locations. For example, the airport will have more options specifically for tourists than a retail store in a remote town. 

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

There are various places to buy SIM cards in India. Usually, convenience will dictate where you buy your SIM card in India, but it’s good to know the benefits and pitfalls of each option. 

In The Airport

Buying a SIM card for India at the airport is the most convenient and highly recommended place to get a SIM card. 

New Delhi Airport and Mumbai Airport offer a quick and easy solution to getting a SIM card for India, and you can expect to be connected within two or three hours. The only provider that has stores in the airport is Airtel. Considering they have a wide network, good coverage, and great tourist packages, this is pretty much all you need. 

Buying your SIM card for India at the airport is the easiest option for sure – you don’t need to bring along all the documentation and photographs. The staff at the stores will do all of that for you. 

Vodafone and Airtel are the biggest networks with stores well represented in most cities. You’d think it would be a great idea to get a SIM card here, but it’s best to avoid this option. 

The reason for this is that staff at these stores will most likely request a local number and a local address before they will register a new SIM card, and as a tourist, you’re unlikely to have these. The biggest chunk of business for these stores is usually locals getting their SIM cards, so they’re not totally up to speed when it comes to tourist options. 

At Your Hotel or Hostel

Another really convenient option for getting a tourist SIM card in India is to ask for assistance from your accommodation. They’re usually well geared up to help tourists and so can offer the best advice and solution for anyone visiting India. 

While this is a much more convenient option, it is also slightly more expensive as the hotel or hostel will likely add on some kind of commission. 

You will still need the photocopies of your passport and visa, as well as passport photos, but if you’re stuck the hotel can help you get these sorted. Then, someone from the network will visit you at your lodgings and finalize the application. 

Because you are required to provide so much documentation, buying a SIM card from one of the local operators isn’t always possible. Some local providers offer a delivery service for SIM cards in the bigger cities, but this won’t circumvent the need to supply the relevant documentation. 

There are still plenty of non-destination-specific options on sites like Amazon that are a good option too. Just make sure to place your order with enough time for delivery before you leave.

Finding the best option among all the options can be overwhelming and confusing, but lucky for you, we’ve done all the leg work to make preparing and packing for your trip a little easier. 

There are several different options for SIM cards for India. Providers range from local to international, each offering a range of options that are ideal for tourists to India. 

These are some of the best deals for SIM cards in India. 

Established in 2010 and based in Palo Alto, California, GigSky is a mobile technology firm that specialises in providing e-SIM and SIM card data services to travellers across the globe. Distinguishing itself from the majority of eSIM providers , GigSky operates as an independent Network Operator, collaborating with over 400 carriers worldwide

GigSky offer a range of packages for India including a tasty ‘try before you buy’ deal that gives you 100MB of data for 7 days.

• 1GB – $5.49 – 7 Days
• 3 GB – $15.49 – 15 Days
• 5 GB – $25.99 – 30 Days
• 10 GB – $49.99 – 30 Days

As our world gets smaller, staying connected while travelling becomes not just a luxury but an absolute necessity. Enter Jetpac, a cutting-edge travel eSIM provider promising seamless connectivity at low costs, across the globe.

Based out of Singapore Jetpac offers packages, designed primarily for travellers and Digital Nomads. They offer various data plans that can be used across many countries, and the service includes features like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed.

Good news, Jetpac eSIMs are compatible with a range of devices, including many models from Apple, Samsung, and Google. If you’re wondering what the heck is an eSIM , don’t panic, it’s simple and straightforward to activate a Jetpac eSIM. Users need to sign up on the Jetpac website or app, choose a plan that fits their travel needs, and then scan a QR code to install the eSIM on their device.

We love Jetpac for its ease of setup and reliable connectivity. JetPac makes it a handy tool for international travel, ensuring continuous access to mobile data across multiple destinations. While they don’t offer local numbers, we love that most of their packs last for 30 days by default so you can just concentrate on how much data you need.

Sim Options

SimOptions is a reputable global marketplace that specialises in offering high-quality prepaid eSIMs for travellers in over 200 destinations worldwide. The platform has been dedicated to providing the best possible eSIM and international sim options at the most competitive rates for travellers since 2018. They rigorously test and select eSIMs to ensure that you receive the best connectivity and service wherever you travel.

As well as effectively acting as a broker from a number of the best eSIM providers, SimOptions also offer their own eSIM products too.

Basically, SimOptions is kind of like a market comparison website for helping you find the best sim for your travels . You simply type in your destination and they bring up the different eSIM options from a wide number of prospective providers and suppliers

Irish based Sim Local specialise in providing eSIM services, primarily targeted at global travellers to help them stay connected without incurring expensive roaming charges. Based in Dublin and London, Sim Local sells local SIM cards and eSIM profiles through their retail outlets, vending machines, and online platforms.

Sim Local offers a variety of eSIM plans that can be activated instantly and are designed to provide a convenient and secure way to stay connected in numerous countries. Their services are beneficial for those who travel frequently, as they provide the option to switch between multiple eSIM profiles on a single device, depending on the user’s location and needs.

They also offer pretty comprehensive customer support and a range of payment options, including Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, all processed securely via Stripe.

Airtel isn’t just the third-largest provider in India, it’s also the largest operator in the more remote places, offering better coverage in these places than its competitors. If you’re heading outside of the major cities and tourist destinations, then definitely consider Airtel.

Their plans and packages are generally not the cheapest, and many users have complained about their internet speeds, they do have some great deals and offers geared specifically for tourists. 

• 1.5BG per day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS per day
• Valid for 28 days

Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea is the biggest provider in India, formed when Vodafone India and Idea Cellular merged. Their offering includes high-speed internet and great coverage, although it isn’t the best option for the more remote areas. 

Their plans tend to be slightly more expensive than other options, but if you’re staying in and around the cities and metropolitan areas and are seeking 4G and great coverage, then it might be worth it. 

If you’re looking for a plan that doesn’t include call time or text messages but is designed for people who spend most of their time on social media, then look into their Internet Packs. 

• 1.5GB per day, unlimited local calls, 100 SMS per day

Jio is the second-largest network in India and offers up to 4G coverage across the entire country. While they do offer unlimited nighttime data, no roaming charges, and free voice calls, the word on the street is that their voice quality isn’t great, and calls tend to drop fairly often. 

• 2GB data per day, unlimited calls, and 100 SMS

This European-based eSim provider offers packages that connect to the best networks in India to provide a fast and reliable connection. Though it does only offer internet, it does allow you to keep your WhatsApp number for seamless integration. What’s more, your own Sim card will still work for calls in case of an emergency.

We’ve found HolaFly to be super easy to set up on your own with a simple scan of a QR code and step-by-step instructions to follow. A real bonus here is that you can set up before you travel, meaning you’re all set as soon as you land. The only real downside is that it is significantly more expensive than a local sim.

• Unlimited data for 5 days
• No expiration date.

Final Thoughts on Getting a SIM Card For India

India is an incredible destination of vibrant colors, rich culture, aromatic cuisine, and deep spiritual connections. Wherever you go in India – whether you’re kicking back on the beaches of Goa, navigating the thronging streets of Mumbai, or soaking up the peaceful setting in the Himalayan foothills – your experience will be infinitely easier with a local SIM card that won’t let you down when you need it most. 

Want another kind of sim card? Check out the revolutionary new Nomad e-sim , an app-based sim card covering over 100 countries that can be organised before you leave home!

Was this article helpful? We love to hear from you, so please share your experiences with us in the comments below. 

Suzanne Borders

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Best Prepaid Sim Cards For India (The Ultimate Guide)

India is a magical place to travel around. The country is so diverse in so many ways from the cultures of each region to the landscapes – you have beaches, jungles, mountains, and deserts.

If you are reading this, chances are you have booked a trip to India or are at least thinking about it, and lucky you, I would love to go back.

So, how are you going to stay connected while you travel around India? One of your best options is to get the top prepaid sim card India has to offer, but which one is at the top? That is what I am here to help with.

Join me as I run through the best-prepaid sim cards for India so that you can choose the right one for your travels.

Top Product Overview

Best prepaid sim cards for india.

Airtel is one of the largest local mobile operators in India and is a great operator to buy your Indian sim card from.

With an Airtel local sim card you will have excellent 4G coverage all over India allowing you to stay connected at all times.

Airtel has a number of different prepaid sim card plans but the best ones are featured below and they are incredibly affordable.

For 299 rupees ($3.66) you will get unlimited calls 100 sms per day and 1.5GB of data per day for 28 days.

If you are staying in India for a while, simply pay 479 rupees ($5.86) and you will get the same Indian sim card plan for 56 days.

You can also order your Airtel sim online if you want to.

• Very affordable
• Long and short-term plans
• Great coverage
• Fast 4G connections
• Unlimited calls
• Order online or buy in store
• Heavy users might want more data

Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea is the largest local mobile operator in India and this means with their Indian sim cards you will get better coverage than with any other sim card in India.

Vodafone Idea has a number of prepaid sim cards you can choose from to be your Indian sim card. The deals are amazingly affordable and very similar to Airtel’s above.

If you plan on being in India for a while, grab the 569 rupee plan ($8.19) as it lasts for 84 days and gives you unlimited calls in India, 100 SMS per day, and 3GB of data per day.

For anyone staying in India for 28 days or less, this is the Vodafone Idea Indian sim card for you. For just 549 rupees ($7.90) you will have 3.5GB of data per day, 100 SMS per day, plus unlimited local calls for 28 days.

• Fast 4G connection
• Best coverage in India
• Incredibly affordable
• Short and long plans
• Lots of data
• SMS and calls included
• None I can find

BSNL is a government-owned mobile operator in India. Using a BSNL prepaid sim card in India is certainly a pretty good option but their coverage and connection speeds are not as good as Vodafone India or Airtel India.

BSNL has been trying to roll out 4G and is doing a good job but you may find you drop to a 3G connection in some parts of the country.

They have a few India sim cards to choose from and I have highlighted the best two for you below.

For 187 rupees ($2.29) you get unlimited voice calls and unlimited data for 28 days, but your connection speed is reduced to 40 kbps after 1.5GB per day.

If you are there for over a month, a good India sim card for you is 347 rupees ($4.25) and comes with unlimited voice calls and unlimited data for 54 days, but your connection speed is reduced to 40 kbps after 2GB per day.

As you can see, these are very affordable rates but they are similar to Vodafone and Airtel, and it is worth having a more reliable connection with faster speeds.

• Unlimited data available
• Pretty good coverage
• Unlimited calls available
• Slower speeds than others
• Some 3G connections

Trabug doesn’t offer you a sim card and instead, they rent you a phone or a WiFi hotspot for you to travel with.

The reason for this is that getting an India sim card requires jumping through a few hoops and this service removes that hassle altogether.

You have to order it online on their website and you still have to provide all the documentation needed for India travel sim cards, but online instead of in person.

Once you land, they will deliver the phone/hotspot to you and you just activate the sim card. The service is a lovely idea but it is way too expensive in my eyes.

Phone rentals are $5.99 per day and you get 2.5GB of data, 250 mins daily India calling, and 10 daily India SMS / Texts.

WiFi Hotspot rentals are $3.99 per day for 2.5GB per day and you can connect up to 5 devices.

If you are in India for 30 days, you are spending up to $180 to stay connected and have to learn a new phone or walk around with a hotspot all the time.

• Easier registration
• Delivered to your hotel
• 4G connection
• Enough daily data
• Way too expensive

Jio is one of the newest providers and has taken over a huge share of the Indian Telecom Market with over 400 million users to date.

They have done this by offering the best deals but they have caused a problem whereby their 4G network is overloaded at times. This means it is not as reliable as a Vodafone Idea or Airtel sim card.

But, Jio does have some very affordable plans and lots to choose from. Here are 3 of their best:

299 rupees ($3.66) for 2GB per day (56GB total), 100 SMS per day, and unlimited calls for 28 days.

719 rupees ($8.80) for 2GB per day (168GB total), 100 SMS per day, and unlimited calls for 84 days.

As you can see, their plans are cheap but I would recommend sticking with Vodafone and Airtel for its reliability

• Good coverage
• Fast speeds
• Free calls and SMS
• Network is overloaded
• Not as reliable as others

Is A Sim Card Essential When Traveling to India?

I would say that yes, having a sim card is essential when traveling to India. India is a chaotic place at times and you are going to want to use your phone to make plans, call taxis, and keep in touch with loved ones at home.

It will also come in handy to be connected so that you use apps for translation, navigation, and trip planning.

Considering that sim cards are so affordable in India, you may as well go get one and be connected rather than trying to live off WiFi.

Things to Know Before Buying A Sim Card in India

Is your phone unlocked.

Your phone has to be unlocked from a network provider in order to use sim cards in other countries, and India is included. Call your home mobile provider and ask them to unlock your phone before you go to India.

Are You Using A GSM Phone?

There are two types of mobile networks in the world, GSM and CDMA. Most of the world uses GSM including India and chances are you have a GSM phone that will connect to it.

Some networks in the USA and Canada, namely Verizon and a few others are still using CDMA. If you bought your phone from one of these providers, it could be a CDMA phone and will not work in India.

How to Buy A Sim Card in India

Buying a sim card before traveling to india.

You can not buy an India sim card outside of India as they require a lot of information to register the sim card which needs to be given in person.

If you want a sim card before you go to India, look into an International Sim Card or an eSim that covers India .

Buying A Sim Card in India

Buying a sim card is easy if you are prepared. Simply go to an Airtel or Vodafone Idea shop with these documents:

• Copy of photo/name page of your passport
• Copy of the Indian visa page in your passport
• Passport size photo
• Proof of where you are staying in India (hotel reservation or contact details of host)
• Driving License with home address if your passport does not have it

Once you hand all this over, you will be given your sim card with your selected plan activated on it very quickly.

How Much Does A Sim Card in India Cost?

Most sim cards are free in India but some providers may charge, but it will not cost that much. At most, you might have to pay $5 for a sim card, but that is the worst-case scenario.

How to Activate & Top Up Your Indian Sim Card

Your sim card will be activated for you when you buy it in the provider’s shop. Just make sure to test it when you are there and ask them to fix it if the activation was not successful.

Topping up your sim card in India is easy. You can do it in a number of ways including:

• Dial the mobile network provider’s recharge number
• Visit their website/app to top up your SIM card.
• Buy recharge vouchers, which are widely available at local stores in India

Internet Speed & Coverage in India

The internet speed and coverage in India are generally excellent and you should have access to 4G in most of the country.

But, as India is such a large country, you may drop down to 3G in some of the more rural areas and perhaps even 2G – that is part of the charm of going rural in my eyes.

Managing Your Mobile Data in India

Managing your data in India isn’t so necessary and you get a daily allowance so you never truly run out. But, it would be nice to avoid running out of data in the middle of the day, so here are some tips.

Choose the right plan: Before purchasing a SIM card, compare different plans offered by different mobile network providers to find the best one that suits your data usage and budget. Make sure to also check the terms and conditions of the plan, including any data limits and overage charges

Use Wi-Fi when available: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots at hotels, cafes, and public places to conserve your mobile data.

Monitor your data usage: Most smartphones have a built-in data usage tracker that lets you monitor your data usage. Set up alerts or warnings when you approach your data limit to avoid overage charges.

Disable automatic updates: Disable automatic updates for apps and operating systems to conserve your mobile data. Instead, manually update them when you have access to Wi-Fi.

Use airplane mode: This stops any background use of data and you can still use GPS and photos with it on.

Download Google Maps for Offline Use: This way you can use Google Maps to navigate without using any data, just make sure you do the download on WiFi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest prepaid sim card in india.

The cheapest prepaid SIM card in India is one of Jio’s. Their most affordable plan is 119 rupees for 1.5GB of data per day for 14 days.

Can foreigners buy a sim card in India?

Yes, foreigners can buy a sim card in India so long as they bring the right documentation with them to the store. The right docs to bring are featured in the “Buying A Sim Card in India” section above.

Can you buy a SIM card for India from the USA?

No, it is not possible to buy a prepaid sim card for India in the USA as you have to buy them in India with the right documents. You can, however, buy an eSim for India or an international sim card in the USA before going to India.

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SIM Cards in India: How & Where to Purchase Them — And Best Alternatives in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Regardless of whether you're visiting India to unwind in an Ayurveda resort or admire the iconic Taj Mahal at sunset, you'll probably be wondering how to connect your smartphone to the internet as soon as possible after you arrive.

That's where getting a local SIM card comes into the picture. Fortunately for you, in most cases, finding and purchasing a Indian SIM card should be a breeze, and in this short guide, we show you the two major ways in which you can get the job done affordably and effortlessly!

Facts About SIM Cards in India

• Local SIM cards in India are widely available, even for tourists. However, at tourist locations such as airports, you can expect to pay a surcharge.
• We recommend opting for an eSIM instead of a local SIM card. eSIMs can be purchased and installed at home before you leave for India, giving you mobile data from the moment you arrive in the country.
• Airalo is a market-leading eSIM provider known for its attractive per-gigabyte rates. The cheapest eSIM bundle to India costs just $8 and gives you a speedy and reliable connection via local networks like Jio and Airtel.

Best SIM Card in India

• 01. How to get a SIM card in India scroll down
• 02. What are the major Indian networks? scroll down
• 03. Where can I buy SIM cards in India? scroll down
• 04. eSIMs as a SIM card alternative in India scroll down

How To Get a SIM Card in India

If you're planning your trip to India, it shouldn't be a surprise to learn that you won't be able to call, text, or access the web on the go with your smartphone as you usually would at home. And if you do manage to get connected via roaming, it can result in hefty additional charges. That's where SIM cards come into the picture. By getting yourself a local Indian SIM card (or, as we'll see, a digital eSIM), you'll be able to connect to the internet via mobile data while on the move and, depending on the bundle you choose, even send SMSes or make local phone calls.

To get a SIM card in India, you basically have two options:

Option 1: Local Physical SIM Cards

Buying a local SIM card in India works in much the same way as buying a SIM card does in your home country : you purchase a small microchip with a fixed prepaid amount of data loaded onto it for a once-off fee. (Especially as a tourist visiting the country for a shorter period, you probably won't need a recurring monthly contract or a more advanced bundle with additional minutes or text, but the option is normally available too, if you like.) You then insert this chip into your smartphone — and away you go!

These physical SIM card microchips come in three main sizes:

• Standard SIM: 25x15mm (about the size of a standard postage stamp)
• Micro SIM: 15x12mm (a bit smaller than a dime)
• Nano SIM: 12.3x8.8mm (about the size of a peanut)

The image below illustrates the differences in size, with the three smaller SIM cards on the right side representing standard, micro, and nano SIMs respectively, and the larger SIM card on the left (known as 1FF) no longer being used these days:

Most SIM card retailers offer only nano SIMs these days, including in India. But if the retailer you visit doesn't offer nano SIMs (or in case the SIM cards sold don't fit into your phone), you can ask for a SIM card adapter, which is normally very cheap and available in most cell phone shops or kiosks.

If you run out of data, you can normally recharge your SIM with ease, too. To do this, visit your network provider's website or go to the counter of pretty much any cell phone shop, convenience store, kiosk, or tourist information in India and ask about data recharge. Many Indian retailers countrywide offer data packages for major networks like Jio and Airtel, making it a quick and accessible option.

If you don't plan on using your Indian SIM for a future vacation after you arrive home, make sure you cut your SIM card chip in two with a sturdy pair of scissors to prevent fraudsters from pulling any personal data from your card, and, if possible, recycle it with other electronic waste.

Option 2: eSIM Cards

A digital alternative to physical SIM cards, eSIMs are regular SIM cards that don't require inserting an actual microchip  into your device while providing the exact same benefits. Newer smartphones (but also smartwatches, tablets, and other devices) can be equipped with eSIMs, and since you don't need a physical microchip to install an eSIM, you can also get one before you even take off on your trip to India. To do this, you just need to visit an online eSIM service, purchase the eSIM you want, and follow the instructions to download and install it onto your device.

Like regular SIM cards, prepaid eSIMs come bundled with a certain fixed amount of data (or, more rarely, SMSes or telephone minutes) which you can use at your leisure while traveling in India. You get to choose the package you want, and you can generally also extend your eSIM's validity easily right from an app.

In general, eSIMs cost about the same as physical Indian SIMs or are slightly more expensive per gigabyte, but in our opinion, their accessibility and eco-friendliness make them the better option for most travelers. We delve into why a bit later in this article.

Network Providers in India

Whether you use a physical SIM or eSIM, it's good to keep in mind that Indian telecommunications are dominated by a handful of network operators. These networks provide the infrastructure that allows you to use mobile data on the go. In India, the biggest players are listed below, so be on the lookout for their names on storefronts (if you're looking for a physical SIM card) or on the top right-hand corner of your smartphone (which shows you which network you're currently connected to):

• and others...

In general, network connectivity for mobile data in India is reasonably good , meaning that you shouldn't have any problems accessing the web from one of the major networks, but in more rural areas of the country, the connection can sometimes still be a bit spotty here and there.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Indian Cities

In general, it's very easy to buy a Indian SIM card. Normally, you can buy a SIM once you arrive at the airport, but you can typically also do so at shops, convenience stores, and kiosks in city centres, malls, or business or market districts. (Don't forget that SIM cards aren't only sold in brick-and-mortar outlets and sometimes in pop-up booths or temporary stalls, depending on where you are.)

In India, you'll easily find SIM card dealers in the following locations:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport,
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport,
• Many hotels and hostels,
• City centres (Delhi, Mumbai, etc.).

Digital eSIMs: A Better Option in India

As we saw earlier, eSIMs generally have numerous advantages and are often a better alternative to using a regular SIM card for most tourists. In our opinion, the most significant advantages include:

• internet immediately upon arrival in India,
• no negotiating with SIM card sellers at the airport,
• transparent and fair pricing,
• online extension is often possible,
• credit card payment is possible,
• local telecom provider networks are used.

However, there is one potential issue around compatibility. Not all devices support eSIMs. If your device was released before late 2019, we recommend double-checking on the internet or contacting a representative from an eSIM service to confirm whether your device is compatible before you purchase an eSIM. In general, the following devices will support eSIMs though:

Airalo  is an excellent eSIM provider for India . Its online platform offers global access to eSIMs through collaboration with big local telecom providers. In India, for example, Airalo works directly with Jio and Airtel to provide you with high-speed coverage directly from their networks, wherever you are in the country.

Once-off prices for eSIMs for India range from $8 to $40 and include between 1GB and 20GB of data. Most travellers should be able to get by with these amounts without any problems.

We recommend Airalo in general, and especially if you travel often, the service provides an excellent connectivity companion while you're abroad.

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Traveling to India? Here's how you can pick up a local SIM card

India's handset market is seeing a meteoric rise thanks to a wave of affordable devices and wide availability of 4G data, and with the country becoming a mobile-first market, having a local SIM card is mandatory for accessing the plethora of digital services available.

A local number comes in handy not just for staying connected, but also for undertaking basic tasks like payments and money transfers. The Indian government ran an initiative last year where it offered a SIM card from state-run BSNL for free for tourists entering the country with an e-visa, but that program was halted last December.

The best recourse for tourists visiting is to purchase a SIM card directly from a retailer in the city. But before we get to that, a primer on LTE bands in India.

LTE bands in India

If you're looking to use LTE in India, you'll need to make sure your phone has the following LTE bands: Band 3 (1800MHz), Band 40 (2300MHz), and Band 5 (850MHz). Band 5 is predominantly used by Jio, a recent entrant in the segment that has amassed over 65 million customers in the space of eight months.

Even if you don't have Band 5 support, you will be able to access LTE from Airtel, Vodafone, and others. BSNL — the service provider with the free SIM card on arrival — delivers LTE on Band 40 (2300MHz). Coverage varies wildly across states, so if you're looking for a detailed breakdown of the state of LTE in India, you should take a look at our detailed guide:

LTE in India: Everything you need to know

Be an expert in 5 minutes

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Picking up a SIM card from a retailer

Airtel is the leading carrier in the country, with a userbase of over 300 million subscribers. The carrier also has the most robust network for LTE, 3G, and calls. To pick up an Airtel SIM, you'll need to head to a retail store near your location with a copy of your passport, visa, and a photograph. You'll be able to walk out with a SIM card in under 10 minutes, and the number will be activated in an hour or two.

The carrier has very affordable tariffs , but not all plans are available in all regions. That said, you'll be able to select a plan that gives you 3GB of LTE data and unlimited calls within the country for as low as ₹300 ($6), with a validity of 28 days from the time of purchase.

Airtel is your only viable option for a local SIM card, as other carriers have fairly stringent requirements. Jio, for instance, requires you to submit details of a local reference as well as your residence details within the country. You won't be able to get a SIM card unless you submit these details.

Then there's Vodafone and Idea, which aren't worth your time. Neither carrier offers nationwide LTE coverage, so if you're looking to travel from one state to another, there will be times when you'll switch over to 2G.

Got any questions or queries? Let us know in the comments below.

Updated in April 2018 with information on Airtel's documentation requirements.

Harish Jonnalagadda is a Senior Editor overseeing Asia at Android Central. He leads the site's coverage of Chinese phone brands, contributing to reviews, features, and buying guides. He also writes about storage servers, audio products, and the semiconductor industry. Contact him on Twitter at @chunkynerd .

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Best SIM Cards for Using Your Smartphone in India

If you’re travelling to India, having the right SIM card can save you time and money. We review the best value SIM cards for using your mobile phone in India.

Thankfully, it’s now really easy to use your UK phone in India as there’s inclusive roaming available on the plans from Lebara Mobile and Lyca Mobile . This means there’s no need to get a local SIM card on arrival. On Lebara, you can use the KEN3 voucher code at checkout to get 3 months half price, making it possible to get a one-month plan from just £2.50 .

In this article, we’ll look at the multiple ways to use your smartphone in India and the best value SIM cards for use whilst you’re there.

• 1 Using Your Mobile Phone In India
• 2.1 Best India Roaming Deals
• 2.2 Standard Roaming Rates
• 3 Buying A Indian SIM Card On Arrival
• 4 eSIMs For India
• 5 Handset & Network Compatibility
• 6 More Information

Using Your Mobile Phone In India

• You can roam on a UK-based SIM card. This is the easiest and the most straightforward way to use your phone in India. You’ll have a UK-based phone number (+44) and you’ll pay your UK mobile network for usage.
• You can buy a local SIM card upon arrival in India. This will come with an Indian phone number (+91), along with a larger allowance of data. However, it’s more hassle as you’ll need to buy your SIM card on arrival. You’ll also need to register and activate the SIM card, which normally takes about 24 hours.
• You can buy a data eSIM for India. You can get an eSIM for use in India, either from the UK-based Lyca Mobile or from a specialist provider like Airalo . You’ll be able to use this alongside your current UK SIM card.

The following table shows a side-by-side comparison of the three options:

For most people, we’d recommend roaming on a UK-based SIM card as this will be a lot less hassle than buying a local SIM card in India. However, it might be worth getting a local SIM card in India if you need a local Indian phone number (+91).

Get Lebara Mobile SIM card →

It can take a couple of days for your Lebara Mobile SIM card to arrive in the post. If you need a faster solution, consider getting a Lyca Mobile eSIM instead. This comes with instant online delivery. You’ll also be able to use it alongside your current SIM card.

Through the rest of this article, we’ll look at the three options in more detail.

Roaming On Your UK SIM Card

• You can set it up before you depart. When you roam on a UK-based SIM card, there’s no need to find a phone shop on arrival and to negotiate with the staff there. You’ll also know your phone number in advance, making it easier to stay in touch with others.
• There’s no need to register your SIM card with the authorities in India. When you buy a local SIM card in India, you’ll need to register it with the government authorities. This involves providing a copy of your passport and your visa for India. You’ll also need to provide proof of your UK address, along with proof of your address in India (e.g. a letter from the hotel to confirm your stay there, or a letter of invitation if you’re staying at a private address). This registration process isn’t necessary when you roam on a UK-based SIM card.
• There’s no need to wait around for your SIM card to be activated in India. It normally takes about 24 hours for a new locally-purchased SIM card to be activated in India. In contrast, a UK-based SIM card will work straight away.
• You’ll be able to call both UK and Indian phone numbers using your plan. In contrast, most local SIM cards in India will only give you an inclusive allowance of minutes for calling inside of India.

Best India Roaming Deals

Lebara Mobile

As a special offer for May 2024, you can get 3 months half price on all Lebara Mobile plans. To benefit, you’ll need to enter KEN3 as your voucher code at checkout. With this offer, you’re able to get the following plans from just £2.50 per month:

The international minutes on your Lebara Mobile SIM card can be used for calling India and 41 other countries .

When you’re using your UK allowances in India, there’s a fair use limit of 30GB data per month. This only applies if you’re on Lebara’s unlimited data plan. You can see the full terms and conditions on Lebara’s website for more information.

Lyca Mobile

The following table shows Lyca Mobile’s best SIM-only deals:

Get Lyca Mobile SIM card (from 99p) →

Although you aren’t able to use your minutes or texts in India, you’ll still be able to use WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime and similar apps to stay in touch with friends and family.

Other Networks

You can also get special rates for international roaming in India on the following UK mobile networks:

• VOXI: On VOXI, you can buy a Global Roaming Extra which will allow you to use your mobile phone in India at a discounted rate. It costs £15 for an 8-day Global Roaming Extra (with 2GB data, 100 minutes & 100 texts included) and £25 for a 15-day Global Roaming Extra (with 4GB data, 200 minutes & 200 texts included). If you buy the 15-day Global Roaming Extra, this will allow you to use your mobile phone in India from just £1.67 per day. There’s no contract and no credit check required when you join VOXI .
• Vodafone UK Pay As You Go: Like VOXI, Vodafone UK also offers an 8-day and 15-day Around The World Extra if you’re a Pay As You Go customer. It’s exactly the same as what you’ll get on VOXI, but you’ll get less data included on your UK plan. You can order a Vodafone Pay As You Go SIM card online . To buy the Extra, text ROAMEXTRA8 to 2345 (for the 8-day Around The World Extra), or ROAMEXTRA15 to 2345 (for the 15-day Around The World Extra).
• Vodafone UK Pay Monthly: If you’re a Vodafone UK Pay Monthly customer, you’ll pay £6 per day to use your allowances in India.

Standard Roaming Rates

If your current provider doesn’t have any roaming offers for India, the following table shows the standard rates you can expect to pay for using your phone in India:

Comparison of roaming charges when using your UK-based SIM card in India. The costs shown are for calling the UK and sending a text message to the UK. It’s always free to receive a text message wherever you are in the world.

In the UK, the average smartphone user can normally expect to use around 100MB (0.1GB) of data each day. Therefore, the costs of roaming in India can add up very quickly unless you have a suitable deal for roaming.

Buying A Indian SIM Card On Arrival

Here are the key things to know about buying a local SIM card in India:

• You’ll need to buy your SIM card on arrival, with prices varying based on location and negotiation. You’ll need to pay an upfront fee when you buy a local SIM card in India. This will vary based on the location and store. For instance, in the city centre, you might be able to get a SIM card for about 100 Indian rupees (about £1). However, this might be 1000 Indian rupees at the airport (about £10). On the contrary, it’s normally a lot less hassle getting a SIM card at the airport as they’re more used to dealing with foreign visitors.
• You’ll need to register your SIM card with the Indian authorities. When you buy a local SIM card in India, you’ll need to provide a copy of your passport and your travel visa for India. You’ll also need to provide proof of your UK address, along with proof of your address in India (e.g. a letter from the hotel to confirm your stay there or a letter of invitation if you’re staying at a private address). You may also need to provide a passport-sized photo.
• It takes around 24 hours to activate a local SIM card in India. In contrast, a UK-based SIM card will work straight away. If you’re buying a local SIM card, it’s still worth bringing your UK-based SIM card to use on the first day of your trip. Alternatively, you can get an eSIM for use on your first day.
• You won’t get inclusive calls to the UK. When you get a local SIM card in India, this will only give you inclusive minutes for calling other phone numbers in India.

• Vi (Vodafone Idea)

All three providers offer fairly similar plans so it’s mainly a matter of the coverage available in the places where you’re visiting. There’s also the convenience of finding a location where you’re able to actually buy the SIM card.

Once you’ve purchased your SIM card, you can expect to pay between 239 Indian rupees (about £2.40) and 299 Indian rupees (about £2.80) for a 28-day plan. This will come with unlimited minutes, 100 texts and 1.5GB data per day:

Alongside the three main providers, there are also a number of smaller providers such as the state-run BSNL and MTNL networks. However, these networks tend to have much poorer coverage so most people will choose one of the big three networks instead.

For more information about the plans available, see the official websites for Jio , Airtel and Vi .

eSIMs For India

With eSIM, there’s the convenience of instant online delivery to your phone, and there’s no need to register your eSIM with the authorities in India. However, the disadvantage is that you won’t be able to make any phone calls on it (you’ll need to use your regular SIM card for calling, for which additional fees may apply).

If you’re based in the UK, the best option is to get a Lyca Mobile eSIM. That’s because you’ll pay as little as £1.29 for 5GB data per month , with the ability to use this in India at no extra cost.

All of the following Lyca Mobile plans are available on eSIM:

See Lyca Mobile eSIM deals →

As a special offer for May 2024, you can enter the KEN10 voucher code at checkout to get a 10% discount on your Indicomm eSIM (new customers only). Existing Airalo customers can use the KEN5 voucher to get a 5% discount.

See Indicomm eSIM deals →

For more information, see our Indicomm eSIM review .

Handset & Network Compatibility

The following table shows the bands and frequencies that are used by the mobile networks in India:

You can check your handset manufacturer’s spec sheet to see a list of bands supported by your phone.

If you’re using a different SIM card for the duration of your trip abroad, you’ll need to make sure your handset is unlocked .

More Information

At present, our recommended networks for roaming in India are Lebara and Lyca Mobile UK . For more information about their roaming offer, please refer to their individual websites.

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Your Comments 4 so far

We'd love to hear your thoughts and any questions you may have. So far, we've received 4 comments from readers. You can add your own comment here .

Roshan Vedi said:

I have just spoken to Lebara and they have confirmed that you can use ALL of your data allowance (max of 30GB) whilst roaming in any of locations including in India. The link above confirms this.

https://www.lebara.co.uk/en/help/roaming/roaming-in-india.html

Lebara have also confirmed that it is possible to make unlimited calls and texts to the UK whilst abroad, including in India. It is also possible to use all your international minutes whilst abroad.

Vince said:

I have been reading about Lebara and their customer service. Looks like they are a real headache to deal with when something goes wrong. And they have issues with coverage throughout India. You would be very lucky if it actually works.

I would like to hear from some of your readers about their experience on using Lebara roaming in India.

Krish replied:

Hi Vince, I bought a Lebara SIM 15GB citing £10 at our local corner shop as I was travelling the following day in January 2023. I slotted the the SIM in my iPhone 12. The SIM was activated and it worked in UK. However, when I tried to use it in India, I could neither make or receive calls – the reason I bought the SIM! Tried the Lebara online helpline which promised to respond in 24-48 hours but they never did. I called at a Vi centre for help but they couldn’t resolve it , instead suggested I contact Lebara UK customer services in spite of my informing them I had failed to get any help. Eventually a friend loaned me an lical Airtel SIM for the duration of my stay.I don’t know if others had similar problems but based on my experience I will not be buying a Lebara SIM again. Cheers Krish

Dilip Patel said:

Very informative and in simple language. 1. Can you add something about how long are pre-paid SIMM’s valid for? For example is there a Pre-paid SIMM for 2 months (60 days) rather than the standard 28 days? 2. When you mention STD calls, does this mean land lines numbers only or it covers calling mobile numbers as well

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Your Worry-Free Trip to India Starts With a TravelSim Prepaid SIM Card

Talk, text, data with international prepaid sim card for india.

The International Prepaid SIM Card for India is the most convenient and economical solution for staying in touch.

Chat to your friends and family back home by easily connecting to a local Indian Vodafone or Airtel network. Your SIM can also be used in over 135+  countries  across  340 networks . Make a call as if you were back home, saving you up to 85% on roaming charges.

TravelSim provides a physical sim card and eSIM for India, choose which one suits better for you. An international sim card is more secure than public Wi-Fi and is a great alternative to a local SIM card (please remember that you must register and provide your passport copies to buy local sim cards). In addition, you can activate TravelSim before you travel to India and get connectivity right after you land. You can select the physical sim card below and to buy an eSIM click here.

The one-size-fits-all International Prepaid SIM Card for India is suitable for use in any unlocked cell phone or wifi device. Simply add prepaid credit anytime online. We’ve got you covered across India + more.

Configure Your TravelSim

Universal SIM size — Mini, Macro & Nano Size

Choose credit for calls & texts

Unlimited USA calls voice package includes unlimited calls from USA to USA and European Union numbers. It does not include calls to voicemail and other TravelSim numbers. You can make unlimited calls from USA to following countries: USA, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech.Rep., Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, St. Barthelemy / St. Martin Island, Sweden, United Kingdom.

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo Democratic Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Philippines
• Russian Federation
• South Korea
• Cook Islands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Netherlands Antilles
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• St Kitts and Nevis
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Bosnia And Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Faroe Islands
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City
• Afghanistan
• Saudi Arabia
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates
• Puerto Rico
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United States
• United States Virgin Islands
• El Salvador
• Falkland Islands
• French Guiana

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Find your zone, add extra number.

Your SIM card phone number starts with +372 by default. In addition to that, you can choose to purchase a UK phone number (+44) or a US phone number (+1).

If you purchase a US number, it will become your primary phone number for outgoing calls. Your default +372 number will still work for incoming calls. Data usage is not affected by phone numbers. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min. Incoming SMS is free. US numbers can only receive calls, no SMS service available for US numbers. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min

Here are all the countries you can travel to when you select this data plan:

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The Best Prepaid SIM Cards for India in 2023

India is an amazing country full of interesting traditions, colorful festivals, and incredible spiritual beliefs. This Asian country offers plenty of beautiful landscapes to enjoy and touristic places to visit during the whole year. Apart from these important things, Indian cuisine is one of the most varied and exotic in the world, so travelers love to go to India and try delicious food.

Everything seems easy when planning a trip to India, but your trip can become difficult when talking about telecommunication if you do not have the proper SIM card . Maybe you are wondering “which is the best SIM card in India?” , right? That is why we have prepared this great article for you!

Looking for an alternative solution? We have eSIMs for India available!

What Are The Top SIM Cards Offers for India?

What is the best sim card for india, best mobile networks in india.

India has four main mobile networks that help 1161.81 million wireless subscribers in the country to keep connected with the rest of the world. However, just three of those providers are the most famous ones. These telecommunication companies provide Indian SIM cards for foreigners so they can stay in touch with their friends and families and even with their bosses in case they are in a business trip.

SimOptions – Prepaid SIM Cards for India

SimOptions offers different SIM cards, mobile phones, and travel accessories so you can stay connected throughout your trip at the lowest prices! This company definitely provides the best international SIM card for India. They work with the best mobile operators and worldwide delivery. This means you do not have to worry about searching the best prepaid SIM card in India, you just have to receive it at your hotel and that’s it!

With SimOptions you will avoid 100% roaming charges; it does not have complicated contracts, no surprises, and no hidden costs. See their prepaid SIM cards for India and what they offer:

SIM2FLY | $ 19.90 - 6GB

• Calls/SMS: No
• Credit Validity: 10 days

Travel SIM World | $ 39.90 - 6GB

• Credit Validity: 15 days

SimOptions has many other SIM cards for more than 200 countries all over the world, check them out here .

Are you looking for travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram!

Vodafone – SIM Card Deals for India

Officially Vodafone Idea Ltd, this is the main and largest mobile operator in India. Although it was officially created in August 2018, its popularity has been growing since then. Vodafone Idea is the result of the union between Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, resulting in the creation of the largest telecommunication company in India (394.93 million active subscribers) and the third-largest company in the world (after China Mobile and Bharti Airtel).

Vodafone Idea offers excellent internet speed (up to 4G/LTE) and coverage in both urban and rural areas; however, it is not the best option for more remote places. Although some users consider Vodafone Idea is kind of expensive, some others consider they have some of the best prepaid SIM cards in India, so now we will show you some of the options this company has for you as a traveler:

Plan 1 (Rs. 569 – ≈ US$8.19)

• Calls: Unlimited local calls within India
• SMS: 100 SMS per day
• Data: 3GB 4G/3G Data per day
• Validity: 84 days

Plan 2 (Rs. 549 – ≈ US$7.90)

• Data: 3.5 GB 4G/3G Data per day
• Validity: 28 days

Plan 3 (Rs 511 – ≈ US$7.35)

• Data: 2 GB 4G/3G Data per day

They also offer Internet Packs for those travelers who spend more time on social networks sharing pictures and videos of their trip. These packs only include mobile data, no calls – no SMS. Check out the Internet Packs that Vodafone Idea offers:

Internet Pack 1: 6GB (Rs 98 – ≈ US$1.11)

Internet pack 2: 3gb (rs 49 – ≈ us$0.70), internet pack 4: 500 mb (rs 33 – ≈ us$0.47).

• Data: 500 MB

Internet Pack 5: 3GB (Rs 47 – ≈ US$0.68)

• Validity: 1 day

Visit Vodafone Idea to find more information about these and other packages.

Jio – Pay As You Go SIM Cards for India

Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, or just Jio, is the second-largest mobile network in India. It was founded 12 years ago and it currently has 306.72 million users. This company offers 4G/LTE in the whole country and users consider their tariffs and plan to be the best ones in the telecom market. Jio provides unlimited night data, no roaming charges, and free voice calls. However, users complain about poor voice quality, unstable connectivity, and call drops.

Apart from all these things, Jio offers many free apps that help you to save money without losing entertainment during the whole trip. Do you want more information about Jio’s plans? Keep reading and discover them!

150 MB/Day Pack (Rs. 52 – ≈ US$0.75)

• Calls: Unlimited calls
• SMS: 70 SMS per day
• Data: 150 MB Data per day
• Validity: 7 days

1.5 GB/Day Pack (Rs. 149 – ≈ US$2.14)

• Data: 1.5 GB Data per day

2 GB/Day Pack (Rs. 198 – ≈ US$2.85)

• Data: 2 GB Data per day

3 GB/Day Pack (Rs. 299 – ≈ US$4.30)

• Data: 3 GB Data per day

4 GB/Day Pack (Rs. 509 – ≈ US$7.32)

• Data: 4 GB Data per day

5 GB/Day Pack (Rs. 799 – ≈ US$11.50)

• Data: 5 GB Data per day

2 GB Pack (Rs. 98 – ≈ US$1.41)

• SMS: 300 SMS
• Data: 2GB Data

Jio has many other plans and different options for you to choose the best one.

Airtel – One of The Best Mobile Network Providers in India

Airtel India is part of Bharti Airtel Limited, which is an Indian global telecommunication company. Airtel India is the third-largest provider in India with 325.18 million subscribers. However, this company is the largest operator in rural India, so it provides better coverage in those remote places where the other mobile companies do not work very well.

Airtel offers good connectivity, a solid network and very good customer service that will help you whenever you need it. But, some users have complained about the Internet speed, which is not the fastest in the country. Although it has many offers and plans, they are not the cheapest compared to the ones offered by other mobile networks.

Now we are going to show you some of the best options they have for you. Airtel has SIM cards for foreigners in India at a good price, continue reading and discover their offers!

Combo 3G/4G Data Pack (Rs 19 – US$0.27)

• Data: 150 MB.
• Calls: Unlimited Local, STD & Roaming calls
• Validity: 2 days

Combo 3G Data Pack (Rs 19 – US$0.27)

• Data: 200 MB.

Combo 3G Data Pack (Rs 9 – US$0.13)

• Data: 100 MB.

These are not the only options they have – you can find more offers visiting their official webpage.

Visiting India will be one of the best experiences in your life, so do not waste time, money and valuable time of your trip looking for the best prepaid SIM card in India. Choose one of the options we already gave you before and enjoy your trip!

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Buy Your India SIM Cards In USA. Best Prepaid Sim For Travel

Buy your India Sim Cards from SimCorner and stay connected without worrying about hefty international roaming fees. Best value Indian Travel Sim Card With Data Before You Fly! Perfect For American Tourists.

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Article: Stay Connected Abroad with International SIM Cards

The Benefits of Using International SIM Cards Traveling abroad can be a thrilling adventure, filled with new experiences and cultural wonders. However, staying connected with your loved ones or accessing essential services while abroad can be challenging due to high roaming charges. Fortunately, ...

Article: 8 unforgettable places to celebrate New Years Eve

How are you spending your New Years Eve this year? Whether you’re into chilling at home and not making it a big deal, or heading out on the town, you’ll want to spend at least one new years experiencing a a new travel destination. From epic firework displays, to iconic street parties, and all-nig...

Stay Connected During Your Trip to India with SIMCorner's Travel SIM Card — Data Included

Of all the destinations on Earth, few offer the same incredible array of different experiences as India does. From the smell of spices on the wind to streets thronged with people and reminders of ancient history everywhere, it's truly an incredible country with a rich background. Of course, it is also a growing centre for technology and global commerce. Whatever reason you have for travelling to India, it's important to ensure that you prepare adequately for the journey. From arranging your visa to the receiving immunisations and finally packing your bags, there's plenty to do. One thing you shouldn't let yourself forget about, is one of your most basic needs: communication. How will you stay in touch and access relevant information like your email while abroad?

With the India travel SIM card offered by SIMCorner, staying connected throughout your journey is straightforward and easy. Through years of experience in providing travel SIM cards to international travellers, we've streamlined the process and taken the hassle out of preparing your mobile device for use in another country. Providing you with access to voice is not all offered through our shop, however; we'll equip you with an India data SIM that allows you to continue to access the Internet and web-enabled services.

An India Travel SIM that's easy to activate

What advantages are available to you with our India travel SIM? Plenty! Because our India Data SIM uses either the Airtel or Vodafone network, you'll know you can trust the Data connection quality throughout your stay. That's because Airtel and Vodafone is among the largest telecom providers in the country.

Our India data SIM card comes with six gigabytes of data included for either 10 Days or 15 Days — plenty for your primary mail and web browsing habits. Why miss the latest stock prices or news headlines because you're on holiday? We have SIM cards with data plans for everything from older phones to newer models such as the iPhone 11 or newer. 

Order online today

Ordering is easy, and your new sim card will be delivered straight to your door for your convenience. Just place your order right here on our website. We provide express shipment across USA enabling you to prepare rapidly for your trip without a worry. To learn more about how our India travel SIM cards work, please don't hesitate to visit our contact page and contact our team.

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The Best eSIM in India

Get eSIM to travel in India with no roaming fees. 5G data plan available. It is very easy to install as an additional SIM. Don't pay extra money for roaming anymore.

Quick Guide: Best eSIM in India

#1. airalo - Prepaid data plans, cancel Anytime. 27 live chat in India

#2. knowroaming - Offers local eSIM (India) for a low price. Trusted mobile operators, cut roaming data fees

#3. airhubapp - India eSIM, from $1.95/gig. Safer than public Wi-Fi, check our eSIM installation guides

#4. holafly - Lightning Fast 5G, get more with eSIM. Stable Internet connection in India

#5. keepgo - Plans start at 1 GB and stretch up to 50GB. No additional charges, see all data plans

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eSIMs vs India Prepaid SIM Cards

In today's modern world, staying connected has become a necessity. Especially in a country like India, where communication is a vital aspect of daily life, accessing the internet and making phone calls is crucial.

Most sightseers prefer buying a prepaid travel SIM India to stay connected. Regardless, buying and activating a SIM card can be quite tedious. This is where eSIMs come in, providing a hassle-free way of staying connected. It"s because when you buy eSim for India, you leave all the worries behind.

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan without needing a physical SIM card. eSIMs are rewritable and can store multiple operators' profiles simultaneously , making switching between them convenient.

Best Prepaid Sim Cards in India

Prepaid SIM cards require buying a physical SIM card, submitting documents for verification, and activating the SIM. You"ll find the following carriers in the country:

• Bharti Airtel
• Reliance Jio
• Vodafone Idea

But you"d better consider eSIMs. They offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for individuals traveling to and within India.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy eSIMs in India?

eSIMs are becoming more popular worldwide and gaining traction in The Subcontinent. The cost of an eSIM is generally lower than buying a physical SIM card.

With eSIMs, you don't need to worry about purchasing an additional SIM card every time you visit the country. It saves you time, effort, and money in the long run , making it the most convenient solution for travelers to stay connected.

See the table below to get all proofs that eSIMs India are less expensive (only the best eSim for India travel are suggested):

Using eSIMs comes with additional perks, such as not needing to carry a physical SIM card, which can be lost or damaged. You can easily switch between different network providers to choose the best network coverage and data plan that suits your needs.

Compared to physical SIM cards, eSIMs offer better security and are less prone to fraud and identity theft. eSIMs are rewritable, making it nearly impossible for others to clone or copy your SIM card. Another advantage is the faster activation time of eSIMs , which is just a matter of scanning a QR code or downloading and installing an app from your device.

Each eSIM for India is the future of staying connected. They are convenient, cost-effective, and can be activated quickly. By getting an eSIM before crossing, you can save yourself the hassle of buying a physical SIM card and have peace of mind knowing you're always connected.

Try AirAlo now! Validity: 7 to 30 days, starts from $1.66/GB

2. knowroaming

Price Range: $4 - $55.93

Knowroaming offers local eSIM for a low price

3. airhubapp

Price Range: $1 - $58

Try Airhubapp for yourself it's fast and safe

Price Range: $19 - $99

Instant activation, there are a couple of good data plans for travelers - 5GB, 15GB and 50GB. Sometimes it is really hard to buy a local sim. Try Holafly it provides eSIM with a local data plans for (country), the most expensive plan costs around $75. Supported devices: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, Samsung Galaxy S20 and more . Stay connected while international travel with eSIM .

Take advantage of this offer now and save on roaming

Price Range: $3 - $740. Special offer: 2GB free

Get your eSIM now. Trusted carriers only!

Using an eSIM India can save sightseers time and hassle by eliminating the need to purchase a physical SIM card and undergo the registration process before use. Additionally, eSIMs offer the flexibility to switch between different network providers as needed, which can improve coverage and lower costs.

No, not all mobile devices are equipped with eSIM technology. However, many new smartphones and smartwatches do have eSIM compatibility.

Yes, many mobile network operators offer eSIM services for tourists. The process typically involves purchasing an eSIM package online and downloading the digital SIM card to a compatible device.

eSIMs are often more affordable than traditional SIM cards, especially for international wayfarers. With an eSIM, you can avoid high roaming fees and use local rates.

Yes, eSIMs are encrypted and secure for use in the country and worldwide. Roamers can rest assured that their personal data is protected using an eSIM.

Travelers can search online or check with their home mobile network operator to see which companies offer eSIM services. Alternatively, drifters can visit a mobile phone retailer to purchase an eSIM package in person.

Keepgo offers the longest validity period for their data plans, with 365 days.

Holafly offers the shortest validity period for their data plans, with only 5 days.

Other eSim Providers

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Written by: Eric Costilia

Eric Costilia is an experienced writer, editor and researcher. His writing focuses mostly on tech, gaming. He wrote dozens of eSIM carriers reviews, which makes him an expert of this technology.

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Ease of Purchase

Hassle-free online purchase with a few clicks. Enjoy seamless connectivity on your adventures with just a few clicks, simplifying your travel experience.

Retain Existing SIM

Keep your existing number and enjoy the convenience of staying connected without the hassle of notifying everyone about a new one by retaining your Whats app number. Seamless communication and familiarity are at your fingertips wherever you go.

Save on Roaming

Unlock the freedom of international travel with Matrix SIM/eSIM, saving you from excessive international roaming charges while ensuring constant connectivity. Seamlessly switch between local networks and enjoy affordable and hassle-free communication wherever you roam.

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✅ if yes, your phone is eSIM compatible.

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Hello Matrix team, Thank you so much for your excellent service. I recently visited Thailand for a family vacation and needed a SIM for Thailand. I would like to congratulate Ms. Pooja for her support, clear communication and solving the queries in a timely manner. Looking forward to using your SIMs in the future international tours as well. Thank You ! 1 Jan 2023

Dear Ms. Soniya, feedback - It was a very wonderful experience with your guidance to procure matrix sims. I have received many calls and offers from matrix and other dealers, but the way of customer handling was great. I want to award points as 10, out of 10. 16 Dec 2022

Hello Soniya, Thank you for providing excellent support and clarifying all my queries regarding the phone models etc. Appreciate excellent support provided by you. 5 Nov 2022

Hi Pooja, This positive feedback is regarding the support you provided on my query. It's really great to experience such a support from skilled professionals like you. To people like us who have less knowledge on the subject, it feels good to be supported by skilled personnel like you. Its people like you who are ensuring that customer are getting complete information every time. Only after such experiences, we keep the faith in your company as well ! 31 Oct 2022

Hi Yashashvi, I am writing in to thank you for providing seamless and transparent customer experience. In last few months I have had couple of interactions with you and both of them have been extremely satisfying. You have gone extra mile to ensure best customer service is provided in a very short span of time. You have been very flexible to customer requirement. Thank you for this wonderful experience. I truly appreciate it and would always recommend Matrix and you as a point of contact! 28 Oct 2022

I ordered the matrix SIM for my recent visit to Dubai. I placed the order online prior to my travel. I took help from the customer service locally - from Ms. Soniya Sachwani. She provided me all info prior to my purchase and true to what she explained, the entire process of getting the sim activated as soon as I landed, was very smooth and seamless. I surely recommend the product for anyone travelling overseas and do not wish to activate international roaming on their existing sim. Special thanks to Ms. Soniya for her excellent support. Posted on 27 Oct 2022 on Google

Dear Yashashvi I would like to take this moment to thank you for all the support and help you provided on behalf of MATRIX Sim services for my travel to Thailand. I would also like to state that this was my first international travel, and I was really worried about how I was going to be in contact with my family members. I knew Matrix does provide international sim cards, but with no knowledge of its procedure, I called the Matrix helpline and with grace of god I got connected to you 🙂. After that everything went so smoothly, from buying the sim, getting it delivered within 24 hrs. and it automatically got activated once I reached Thailand. I am really happy with the Matrix services and its top-notch quality standard. Thank you so much for everything. Surely, I will always be buying from Matrix. I surely know now, There is no need to worry in this aspect in my future travels. Once again, Thank you so much. Really appreciated. 24 Oct 2022

Dear Ritika I have been using Matrix services from 2010 (I got my first UK student SIM thanks to my father) Ever since I have only been using their packages for international travel. I had THE MOST PLEASANT EXPERIENCE interacting with one of your agents called Ritika she was extremely supportive throughout and very very very proactive. I wanted to personally drop in a good word for her! 21 Oct 2022

I was facilitated by Soniya Sachwani for Matrix travel insurance and matrix sim. Really happy with her dedication and services. She assisted me with all my queries and made the process very smooth. Posted on Google on 27 Sep 2022

Delhi Airport Team I would like to appreciate 👍 and thank you 🙏 for your International departure sim card package service. I found your outlet at International departure useful and worthy. The customer service staff is very informative and useful. They have great product knowledge. Your product is worth buying for a short term travel, transit or stay outside indian territory. Please convey my thanks to concern team members. 5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for your service. ❤️ 18 Sep 2022

Dear Ujjawal Kumar “I wanted to take some time out to personally pen down a note of appreciation about your engagement in my case. Your attention to detail and personal ownership with the E2E process from procurement, delivery and post-delivery engagement is impeccable and a trait that will take you places in the customer service industry. Keep up this attitude and Thank You! again for this experience and making me an ‘evangelist’ about your company and services”. 29 Aug 2020

I was planning to travel to the US for a long vacation. I was very confused while selecting the SIM. One of my cousins suggested buying Matrix SIM. And it turns out to be a very good choice. It has strong signals almost everywhere. Also, it lets me be connected with my loved ones without worrying about burning a hole in my pocket.

I used a Matrix SIM card for an event streaming in Greece. Worked seamlessly and without ant network issues.Highly recommend for working professionals flying abroad frequently.

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• South Africa
• South America
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City

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Explore plans with coverage in

Asia Travel SIM Card

• 20 countries

Tourist Travel SIM Card

• 120 Countries
• China (including Tibet)
• Congo (Democratic Republic of)
• Congo Republic
• Madagascar Republic
• North Ireland
• Northern Cyprus
• Papua New Guinea
• Puerto Rico
• Slovak Republic
• Svalbard and Jan Mayen

India Travel SIM Cards

When you’re travelling to India from Australia, you need to know you can easily stay connected to the people you care about back home. Thanks to SimsDirect, it’s easier than ever before with an India travel SIM card that meets all your needs.

We offer a range of prepaid India SIM card options. Whether you’re getting romantic in Paris, or partying hard in Ibiza, you’ll have all the data you need to upload all those Instagrammable moments and keep your Australian family and friends updated on your India adventure!

The India SIM card you shouldn’t leave home without

You can use our international SIM card India wide so you won’t have to worry about finding a SIM provider when you reach your destination. Everything is prepaid before you go and there’s an Aussie support team here to provide you with help should you need it. Even better, it doesn’t matter what phone you have as our India SIM card fits all makes and models of mobile phone.

You’ll enjoy loads of data so you can stay in touch without having to worry about expensive roaming charges. You can also use your India travel SIM card for anything up to 30 days. This makes it easy to document and upload your memories as you go for the whole of your trip.

We’re happy to answer all your questions so please get in touch if you’d like to know more about our various India SIM card options. Or order your SIM today and start your India trip with complete peace of mind!

We recommend visiting Smart Traveler before you take off on your journey.

Where It Works

The best sim card for nz.

You have booked your trip to NZ and now you're thinking... What's the best NZ SIM card for my trip?

Well you're in the right place 👍

Here, you can find the best value NZ SIM cards that are super easy to use so when you land you will connect instantly and avoid the chaos of buying a SIM at the airport.

Keep reading or watch our video with all the available options so you can make the right choice.

All your options, compared.

Best bang for your buck: The 10GB New Zealand SIM

Other Aussie travellers like you rated the 10GB option the best with over 800+ 5 star Reviews.

Below are our options compared with Vodafone and Spark mobile, the major providers in New Zealand.

Small Plans

For the budget traveller looking to save money.

• Best suited for minimal data users
• Research restaurants, places and sites on the go
• Use google maps for your travels

• 200 mins & texts in NZ
• 100 mins & texts to Aus
• 30 day validity

• 300 mins to NZ & Aus
• Unlimited texts to NZ & Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here.

Medium Plans

The 'all rounder'. There's a reason that Aussie travellers love this one.

Get this one if you:

• Want best bang for your buck
• Need access to a lot of apps including maps, social media etc.
• Unlimited mins & texts in NZ
• 200 mins & texts to Aus
• 60 day validity
• Unlimited calls to NZ & Aus
• 300 mins & texts to Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here .

Large Plans

For the traveller who needs heavy internet usage on the go for 1 or multiple devices.

• Don't worry about running out of data
• Can hotspot to multiple devices
• Great for videos, maps, social media and big downloads
• Unlimited calls & texts in NZ

Bottom Line

You are looking for the right SIM for your needs and want to make the right choice so you can travel around New Zealand easily.

By choosing one of the SIM cards through SimsDirect you are avoiding the hassle when you land and getting the best value SIM cards for Aussie travellers.

Plus you get free delivery and 100% money back guarantee with every purchase.

You can't go wrong with the SimsDirect 10GB SIM that comes with unlimited calls & texts to NZ and Australian numbers.

Shipping and Delivery

Frequently asked questions.

Delivery times vary depending on your location, please use the table below for estimated delivery times.

Shipping Method:

Standard - Free Express - $7.99

All orders are shipped from our Sydney office using the Australia Post Domestic Letter Service.

Same-day dispatch is available on orders placed before 3pm AEST/AEDT Monday - Friday. Any orders placed after 3 pm will be dispatched the next day.

Once we've shipped your order, you will receive a tracking number via email. Click the View Order button in the email to monitor the status of your delivery with Australia Post.

If you're leaving soon and your order hasn't arrived, please contact us so we can arrange to have it delivered to you with free express shipping. It is important to us that we ensure your SIM card(s) arrive well before you take off.

Product Information

Yes! We offer 3 different sizes for each SIM card - Standard, Micro, and Nano. All you need to do is make sure that you pop out the correct size that is compatible with your device.

The SIM will only activate once you have inserted it into your device, which, in most cases, is when you have arrived at your destination.

You can find more specific activation steps here .

Zero. We're here to help you save money whilst abroad. With our SIM cards, you'll get all the data and outgoing calls that you pay for without any added surcharges or hidden costs. For as little as $2 a day, we offer the cheapest way of staying online while you're travelling.

If you purchased your device outright then it is most likely unlocked. Devices purchased alongside a contract are usually locked. If you are unsure, contact your service provider, they may even be able to unlock it for you (usually incurring a fee).

You’ll be able to track your data usage directly from your device, please click here for an in-depth guide on how to do so.

Travel easily & safely!

Travel tips for 2023, traveling the globe, check out the explorer collection.

Explorer Travel SIM Card

• 71 Countries
• Balearic Islands
• The Czech Republic
• French Guiana
• French West Indies
• Isle of Man
• Northern Ireland
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Martin
• United States
• US Virgin Islands

Recently viewed

Why is the activation date important.

• We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use  it when the SIM is inserted into your device.
• For a seamless experience, make sure the date you insert at checkout is the exact date you want to start using the SIM, not earlier or later.
• Activation can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Not sure on your dates yet?

• You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
• Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time. 

What if you need to change the dates?

• You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your order number so we can change it for you.

• New Prepaid SIM
• International Roaming
• Switch Prepaid to Postpaid
• Port to Airtel Prepaid
• Buy New Connection
• Port to Airtel
• Free Sim Delivery
• Buy New DTH Connection
• Upgrade Box
• Buy Second DTH connection
• View Account
• Get New Account

AIRTEL BLACK

Airtel finance.

• Credit Card

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How to get a new sim with same old number.

We switch phones all the time. But what happens when you want to get a new SIM card but still keep the same old phone number? With advances in mobile porting technology, it is now very easy to get a new SIM with the same old number.

Buy Airtel Postpaid with exciting benefits!

Here’s how this process works and how you can get a new SIM card with an old number, with the help of mobile number porting .

What is SIM Porting?

SIM porting, commonly known as mobile number portability (MNP), is a service that allows you to switch your mobile service provider while retaining your existing mobile telephone number. However, SIM porting can also refer to obtaining a new SIM card from the same provider while keeping your old number. This might be necessary if your current SIM is damaged, lost, or if you need a different size SIM for a new phone.

How to Get a New SIM Card with the Same Number

Getting a new SIM card with the same number is a straightforward process, whether you’re dealing with loss, theft, upgrade, or any other reason. Here’s how you can go about it:

• Download the Airtel Thanks bill payments app on your phone
• Login to the app with the credentials wherever required
• On the Shop tab, select Postpaid
• Now choose the button that says port to a new number
• Select the postpaid plan that you want
• Complete the payment for the postpaid plan
• An Airtel agent will visit you soon and complete the process

You can also follow this same process through the Airtel website.

Therefore, porting your number to Airtel or keeping your older phone number on a new SIM card is very easy. However, while selecting a new postpaid plan from Airtel, be sure that you are choosing the right plan. There are plans that offer various OTT benefits with Airtel postpaid, data rollover, higher data allowance, extra SIM cards and more.

Read more: Benefits of having an Airtel postpaid SIM card

Benefits of Keeping the Same Number on a New SIM

1. continuity:.

Keeping your existing number ensures continuity in personal and professional communications. It eliminates the need to update your contact information with friends, family, clients, and service providers.

2. Convenience:

It’s much more convenient to maintain the same phone number, especially in today’s digital age, where your number is linked to multiple accounts and services such as WhatsApp, online banking, and shopping sites.

3. Security:

Using the same number on a new SIM reduces security risks associated with updating phone number details on important accounts and potentially missing out on crucial notifications.

4. Saves time:

Transferring all account verifications and subscriptions to a new number can be time-consuming. Keeping the same number simplifies the management of your digital life.

5. Network Benefits:

If you are satisfied with your current network’s coverage, customer service, and cost, it makes sense to stay with the same provider and maintain all the benefits while simply updating the physical SIM card.

Read more: Best postpaid connection plans for heavy users

What You Need to Know Before SIM Replacement

Backup your data:.

Before swapping your SIM card, ensure that your contacts, messages, and other important data stored on the SIM are backed up. You can back up data using Google Drive or any other app that provides account backup services.

Report Loss/Theft immediately:

If your SIM replacement is due to loss or theft, report it immediately to your service provider to prevent unauthorized use and possible fraud. Caution and immediate action are key during such cases. 

Verify Compatibility:

Check that the new SIM card is compatible with your mobile device, especially regarding SIM size (standard, micro, or nano). You can also switch to an eSIM from Airtel if you want to experience the magic of next-gen connectivity.

The ability to retain your old phone number when getting a new SIM card is more than just convenience—it’s a way to ensure that your digital life continues uninterrupted. Whether you’re an Airtel user looking to get a new SIM with the same number or you’re with another provider, the process is designed to be user-friendly and secure. 

Want to get a new Airtel SIM card while keeping the same old phone number? Port your number to the Airtel postpaid network today and get the best of benefits. 5G network internet connectivity, multiple plans to choose from, various OTT benefits, added data benefits, and more.

You might also like

Beginner’s guide on how to choose the best postpaid plan in India

How To Make Sure Your Phone Isn’t Hacked?

What To Do If You Lost Your Sim Card While Travelling Abroad?

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Sim card suggestions for Europe - Travel Gadgets and Gear Forum

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Hi Everyone!

I will be travelling to Europe next month from India. I will be visiting Austria, Italy, Switzerland & France and will be requiring internet most times for navigation. Can anyone please suggest a sim card that works all over Europe? Additionally, should I buy local sim or should I get it beforehand?

Thanks in advance!

8 replies to this topic

If me , I would just buy a local SIM card. In what ever country you stop at 1st.

Will that be in international roaming when I move to the next country?

if you can wait until after you arrive, buy where ever you want. If not, then buy at the airport or at home.. Its all up to you.

in th EU they did away with roaming for the most part.

and ask those questions to the providers. NO ONE on TA is VETTED !

Thanks for your input but I am asking this question on TA forum so that fellow travellers can provide their experience or suggestions which the provider will not disclose.

The forum is meant for advices and suggestions, if you don’t feel like it is an important question to be answered then please feel free to skip

"...Hey R C,

The forum is meant for advices and suggestions, if you don’t feel like it is an important question to be answered then please feel free to skip..."

Sorry, but you dont get the idea that you can do what you want, within reason.

you are thinking in the now.

ever hear of the word TRY? Ever hear of the concept "give a man a fish, and they eat for a day, TEACH a man to fish and they eat for a lifetime?" you want the fish.

So, again, TRY.

What if someone said to you, go out and buy XYZ brand. But XYZ brand was gobbled up last month by 123 brand. So you will end up looking for something that isnt out there anymore. Its why i say what i did.

And you and others want the EASY answer. Its out there and again TRY.

its how i LEARNED how to do things. you will find providers out there.

by the way, if you or others dont like my reply, feel free to report. this goes for this and any other reply you may not like.

It’s a new country that I have never visited, so I am open to suggestions from people who have. I will do research about the suggestions I get and make a decision. That’s the reason I have posted this question.

Thank you but I am not open to criticism for asking questions in a forum specifically designed for it so that I can make an informed decision.

We’ve had a really good experience using an Airalo e-sim all over Europe. Affordable and excellent coverage as it connects to local networks.

Using a local SIM card would be a lot cheaper than Airlo or any other 3rd party roaming SIM cards. In sone cases it can even be slower than a local SIM.

The local SIM card from one EU country should work for another EU country.

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State Bank of India Launches Its First Travel Credit Card – India Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 29th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

While there are several co-branded credit cards offered by airlines and hotels, banks releasing travel-focused core credit cards indicates a shift in consumer preference and the rising popularity of travel credit cards in India.

Bulbul Dhawan

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

India’s largest bank State Bank of India (SBI) has launched its first-ever travel focused credit card. ‘SBI Card MILES’ has been launched in three variants to cater to different types of travelers, from beginners to frequent flyers. 

“Indian travelers are large global spenders and with increased and more robust travel plans, consumers are looking for curated benefits to enhance their travel experiences,” said Abhijit Chakravorty, CEO of SBI Card. 

Rise of travel credit cards in India: Travel credit cards are rising in popularity in India. Card services company Visa in its report released in December 2023, stated that 95% of Indian travelers select credit cards for international travel, driven by features such as travel miles, cashback, rewards, and high limits on spending. Travel credit cards were the fastest growing category in 2023, with a year-on-year demand increase of 27%, according to a report by fintech platform ZET. 

Several brands are coming up with travel credit cards. Last year, Marriott launched India’s first-ever co-branded hotel credit card in collaboration with HDFC Bank. SBI also has seven co-branded travel credit cards including those with railway company IRCTC, Air India, and online travel platform Yatra. IndiGo has partnered with Kotak and HDFC Bank for co-branded credit cards, while online travel company EaseMyTrip has a co-branded card with Standard Chartered. 

Mahindra Holidays Records Highest-Ever Annual Performance in 2023-24

Mahindra Holiday and Resorts has recorded its highest-ever annual performance in financial year 2023-24. It recorded a 12% year-on-year increase in total income, which stood at INR 14.2 billion ($171 million). During the year, the company added nearly 400 keys to its inventory, with resorts in locations such as Sikkim, Assam, Turkey, Thailand, and Georgia. 

The group has also reached a member base of nearly 300,000 after adding more than 20,000 members in the 2023-24 fiscal year. 

Mahindra Holidays and Resorts has set a target to double its inventory from the current over 5,000 rooms to 10,000 rooms by 2030. For this, it is planning to invest up to INR 45 billion ($539 million) over the next three to four years.

IHG Hotels to Double Presence in India in 5 Years

IHG Hotels and Resorts is planning to double its portfolio of operational hotels in India to 100 properties in the next five years. In 2023, IHG launched its voco brand in India, and signed hotels across luxury, premium, midscale, and upper midscale segments. In a statement, the company said that it is targeting high-growth secondary markets such as Amritsar, Lucknow, Kasauli, and Katra. 

IHG’s India, Middle East and Africa managing director Haitham Mattar said, “India’s hospitality sector is experiencing a dynamic transformation, driven by a confluence of factors including increased disposable income, a growing middle class with a taste for travel, and the development of new tourist destinations.”

The company also signed an agreement to debut the InterContinental in the southern state of Telangana. The 300-key InterContinental Hyderabad Neopolis is scheduled to open in 2029. 

ITC Hotels Forays Overseas With ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo

ITC Hotels has entered the international market with the opening of its first property outside India. ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo, Sri Lanka features 352 keys and is the biggest hotel in Sri Lanka. It also marks the biggest investment made by an Indian company in the island nation. 

The hospitality company is looking to open more international hotels, said ITC Limited chairman Sanjiv Puri. In order to diversify its hotel portfolio, ITC Hotels is looking at neighboring countries and the Middle East region as the primary target markets. It is, however, seeking to continue its expansion momentum in India, aiming to add 70 hotels in the domestic market over the next five years. 

Schengen Countries See 100% Jump in Indian Senior Citizen Indian Travelers

There has been a 100% increase in Indian senior citizen travelers to Schengen countries this year, according to insurance company Policybazaar. The company noted that there was a slight uptick in users booking travel insurance policies exceeding 45 days in April this year. This trend is further expected to rise in view of the updated Schengen visa norms. 

There is a 15% increase in travelers declaring pre-existing diseases while traveling to Europe and travelers are also selecting add-ons for their travel insurance. These add-ons include baggage loss, trip cancellation, adventure sports coverage, and pre-existing disease coverage. 

The European Commission has introduced a new visa regime for Indian nationals , which allows them longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas based on the applicant’s travel history. With this visa, they would be able to enter 29 European countries with travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals. 

Radisson Hotel Group Signs Svelte Delhi

Radisson Hotel Group has signed Svelte Delhi as a member of its Radisson Individuals brand. The 108-key hotel adds to the company’s portfolio of more than 24 hotels in the Delhi national capital region. It is expected that the hotel will become operational by the third quarter of 2024. 

The company is expanding its presence in the country, and earlier this month, debuted its luxury lifestyle brand Radisson Collection in India . In an interview with Skift, executive vice president Elie Younes said that multiple hotels will be opened under the brand over the next five years. 

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: air india , airlines , credit cards , earnings , hotels , ihg , india outbound , india travel , itc hotels , marriott , radisson hotel group , schengen , skift india report , tourism , travel credit card , Travel Trends , traveler , traveler behavior , vacation ownership

Photo credit: 95% of Indian travelers select credit cards for international travel. Leeloo The First / Pexels