India is home to multiple mobile networks providing strong connectivity to tourists. While the telecom industry is huge and competitive, Jio, Airtel, and Vi are the top SIM and data service providers. When travelling to India, having a local SIM card helps you stay connected through affordable calls and get good data. Read more to understand the best mobile networks in India for tourists!
Why Buy a Local SIM Card?
While you are exploring different parts of India, having good network connectivity to make calls and send messages is essential. Having a local SIM card helps avoid high international roaming charges. Even in remote areas, you can get a wide network coverage at a cheap price as these data plans provide unlimited calls and SMS in India.
Where to Buy a SIM Card?
You can buy a SIM card at airports, authorised resellers, and retail stores. Buying SIM cards from airports is convenient, however, the price would be higher than the usual rates. Retail stores are another option where you can get a SIM card for a cheap price. There are two kinds of card services, prepaid and postpaid. However, most outlets ask for a local proof of address, which you may not have for a postpaid plan. At most of the Airtel stores, you can get a SIM card by showing your ID and local accommodation address.
How to Buy a SIM Card?
For a SIM card process, you need your passport, visa, and a passport-sized photo for documentation. Your card will get activated within 24 hours after a KYC verification.
Jio, Airtel & Vi Comparison
Jio, Airtel, and Vi are the top data and SIM service providers in India. Take a look at the table to see the best option that suits your data coverage needs.
| SIM Card | Jio | Airtel | Vi |
| Coverage | 4G/5G coverage both in urban and rural areas | 4G/5G coverage both in urban and rural areas | Good in cities, less in remote areas |
| Speed | Both 4G & 5G are fast | Both 4G & 5G are fast | Good 4G speed |
| Tourist SIM | Easy to get, popular among tourists | Easy to get, popular among tourists | Available, but less popular |
| eSIM Facility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Jio and Airtel are the best SIM and data service providers for tourists. They provide 4G and 5G high-speed internet connectivity. Jio and Airtel also offer international roaming services, allowing tourists to stay connected. If you wish to go for an affordable option, then we recommend BSNL. It is owned by the government of India and provides good internet speed in rural and urban areas.
Tips for Foreigners
- You should be 18+ years of age to get a new number or SIM. For people below 18 years, they can get a SIM under the name of the guardian.
- Phones brought in the US are usually locked, due to which you can’t insert a SIM card. By contacting your carrier, you can request an unlock before arriving in India, so that you can insert another SIM.
- Keep your passport, visa, and photo handy for the KYC process.
- If your device supports eSIM, then opt for the eSIM facility for instant activation.
- For convenience, you can buy a SIM from the airport, but the price will be slightly higher.
Read more about How to get a Local SIM Card in India for Foreigners.
India’s mobile networks make it easy and affordable to stay connected throughout your journey. At India Someday, we plan customized trips to India for you based on your interests and requirements. Contact us and we will help you plan your perfect trip to India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jio and Airtel are the best data service providers with the most extensive network coverage across India, including rural areas.
Airtel and Jio have smooth processes for SIM card activation for foreigners, often available at major airports. You will typically need to present your passport, visa, and a passport-sized photograph.
Jio, Airtel, and Vi all offer prepaid plans catering to tourists with varying data allowances, calling minutes (including international calls in some plans), and validity periods.
About Rabhya Maini
Rabhya Maini is a writer at India Someday. Her passions are reading, writing, and exploring different parts of India. She loves to capture the beauty of India through photos and words.
helping you travel your way
Everything you need to know about India is here We have tried writing about everything you may need help with for your trip to India, If you need help in planning a trip to India Get in touch with us to to plan your trip of a life time.
