When traveling in India, you will find many mobile networks that provide strong connectivity and affordable mobile data services. You can stay connected with friends and family by having a local SIM for the period of your trip. India’s expanding 4G and 5G networks bring fast internet to everyone. Read more to find out about mobile data and internet packages in India for tourists!
Why Get a Local SIM or eSIM in India?
Getting a local SIM is always convenient when traveling to India. You can also avoid expensive international roaming fees. Having a local SIM helps you to use data services freely and make local calls. Additionally, many data and SIM services provide flexible and affordable internet packages.
The main providers, Jio, Airtel, and Vi, offer tailored and affordable packages for tourists for both physical SIM and eSIM.
Top Providers and Their Packages
Jio
Jio has excellent 4G and 5G connectivity, especially in cities and towns. They offer a prepaid plan of ₹299 ($3.50), where you will get 2GB/day + unlimited calls for 28 days. It also provides the facility of eSIM, but you will need your passport, visa, and photo for the KYC process. This plan is best for getting high-speed data and connectivity in urban and rural areas. If you wish to see other plans, you can install the MyJio app on your phone.
Airtel
Airtel has strong coverage in urban and rural areas with great 5G connectivity. They offer a prepaid plan of ₹399 ($4.66), where you will get 2.5GB/day + unlimited local/STD calls + 100 SMS/day for 30 days. They also provide the facility of eSIM if your phone is compatible, but again, you will need documents for the KYC process. If you wish to see more plans, then you can download the Airtel Thanks app on your phone.
Vi
Vi’s network is good in cities, but not in remote areas. Vi has started providing a 5G network, but it’s not that strong. They offer a prepaid plan of ₹349 ($4.08), where you will get 2GB/day for 30 days. They also provide the facility of eSIM for postpaid and for selected prepaid plans. But they will ask for a local proof of address, which you may not have for a postpaid plan. If you wish to see more plans, then you can download the Vi app on your phone.
International eSIM Providers
International eSIMs are convenient for tourists as you can set up your eSIM instantly, and you don’t need an Indian address or do the KYC process. It is perfect for short trips. Here are some of the international eSIM providers. However, these are a bit costlier than the local SIMs.
- Saily: Works with Jio, offers 1GB/7 days ($3.99), 3GB/30 days ($9.99), up to 20GB/30 days ($38.99). Data-only, strong security features, easy app-based setup.
- Nomad: Uses Airtel, 1GB/7 days ($4.50), 5GB/30 days ($13), 20GB/30 days ($39). QR-based installation, data-only.
- Airalo, Holafly, Jetpac: Also popular, offering instant activation and a range of data packages.
Alternatives to Mobile Data
If you don’t have mobile data, then you can rely on free or paid Wi-Fi in public places like railway stations, airports, cafes, etc. Additionally, you can also opt for a wireless router or a pocket Wi-Fi.
Tips for Smooth Connectivity
- Ensure that you always keep your home SIM operational in case of any emergencies.
- If you are heading to remote areas where you will not get connectivity, then download offline maps for navigation.
- Keep your local SIM provider’s contact number in case the SIM activation is delayed or if you are facing any problems.
- Avoid relying on public Wi-Fi, as it can be unsafe. Operating on mobile data is much safer, and you get consistent speed.
Read eSIM Options in India for Foreigners
Getting a local SIM card in India is cheap and reliable, as you will get high connectivity in most areas. 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
Foreigners can obtain mobile data and internet by purchasing a local prepaid SIM card (from providers like Airtel, Jio, or Vi) upon arrival, or by activating an eSIM if their device is compatible. Both options require valid identification, like your passport and visa.
To purchase a SIM card with an internet package, you need your original passport, a valid Indian visa, and a passport-sized photograph. Some vendors might also ask for a local reference or the address of your accommodation.
Yes, major providers like Airtel, Jio, and Vi offer prepaid “tourist” or “visitor” plans. These often include daily data allowances (e.g., 1.5 GB or 2 GB per day), unlimited local calls, and a set number of SMS messages, valid for durations like 28 or 30 days.
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.
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