If you are traveling to India, you may want to know how to get your cell phone connected in India. Whether you’re here for a short trip or a longer stay, having mobile access is essential for navigating cities, booking rides, staying in touch, and sharing your journey. But with different carriers, SIM card options, and ID requirements, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first.
Iconic sites like the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, and the Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh bring India’s storied past to life. Festivals such as Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, and Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, offer unforgettable opportunities to dive into ancient traditions and feel the pulse of Indian culture.
Whether you plan to explore one region at a slow pace or zip across the country on a packed itinerary, staying digitally connected in India is quite simple, thanks to fast mobile internet, wide network coverage, and affordable data plans. That said, figuring out the best way to stay connected can still be a little tricky.
Here’s everything you need to know about mobile internet, eSIMs, Wi-Fi, network providers, and data plans while traveling in India.
How to get your cell phone connected in India
Will my phone work in India?
You can easily use your existing phone plan while traveling in India. For example, Vodafone Australia offers a $5 per day roaming option with unlimited usage, making it simple to stay connected. While you might experience patchy coverage in some remote areas, Vodafone generally provides strong and reliable service across most parts of the country.
What mobile networks are available in India?
There are four main mobile network operators in India.
- Jio currently offers the widest coverage and strongest 5G services.
- Airtel comes in second.
- Vodafone Idea (VI) offers mainly 4G coverage but has begun to roll out 5G coverage.
- State-owned BSNL offers 4G and 3G coverage, with plans for 5G coverage in the works.
5G coverage is widely available in India, especially in major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Delhi. Nationwide 5G access is expected to grow rapidly, with VI planning to launch its 5G services in March 2025, at prices likely to be more affordable than current plans from Airtel and Jio.
Mobile internet is generally dependable in urban areas, though coverage can be less consistent in more remote regions.
How can I get a local SIM card?
It’s best to buy a local SIM card from a store in any major city, rather than at the airport, where the process can be slow and cause delays on arrival.
Since Jio’s prepaid SIM cards require an Indian address and an Aadhaar card (India’s national ID), Airtel is currently the most convenient option for foreign visitors.
Airtel offers data-only prepaid plans, including one with 50GB of data valid for 30 days.
To get started, you’ll need to provide a local address in the state where you’re purchasing the SIM, and possibly a local phone number to receive an OTP (one-time password) for activation.
These rules, though meant for security, can sometimes confuse travelers. If you know someone in India—such as a friend, relative, or driver—you can ask to use their address and phone number. In some cases, telecom staff might accept your hotel’s address and even offer to use their own number to help with the OTP.
Is eSIM available in India, and how does it work?
Local providers in India do offer eSIM services for compatible devices—but international eSIM services are often easier to use while traveling.
An eSIM is a super convenient option (as long as your phone supports it). Once you choose a provider and purchase a plan, simply follow the setup instructions on your device. You can even install the eSIM before you arrive and activate it as soon as you land, giving you instant access to mobile data.
Major Indian carriers like Airtel and Jio also support eSIMs, but like with physical SIM cards, the registration process usually involves more documentation for foreign travelers. In some cases, you may need to visit a store in person to verify your ID, which can be a hassle.
That’s why international eSIM providers like Saily are often a more convenient choice—they let you skip the paperwork and connect quickly without any in-person steps.
