Planning a trip to India? Whether you’re visiting for business, adventure, or a spiritual retreat, staying connected is a must. And let’s be real—dealing with physical SIM cards can be a hassle. That’s where eSIMs come in.
With an India eSIM, you can enjoy seamless connectivity from the moment you land without the stress of finding a local SIM card vendor or dealing with long activation times. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using an eSIM in India, including the best providers, compatibility, costs, and how to get one.
Why Use an eSIM in India?
India is a massive country with a complex telecom landscape. Traditional SIM cards require registration with a local address and ID, which can be inconvenient for short-term travelers. With an eSIM, you can skip the paperwork and enjoy instant activation. Here’s why an India eSIM is a game-changer:
✅ Instant activation – No need to visit a store or deal with a physical SIM. Just scan a QR code, and you’re online.
✅ No need to swap SIM cards – Keep your primary SIM for calls and use an eSIM for data.
✅ Cost-effective – Many eSIM providers offer cheaper data plans compared to international roaming.
✅ Reliable coverage – eSIMs from top providers offer great coverage across major cities and tourist destinations.
✅ Multiple plans available – Choose a data-only plan or a package that includes calls and SMS, depending on your needs.
Top 6 eSIM Providers for India
| Data Plan | BNESIM | Airhub | UBIGI | Nomad | Saily | GigSky |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | €3.04 | – | €4.00 | €4.10 | €3.46 | €3.99 |
| 3 GB | €8.55 | €5.47 | €8.00 | €9.00 | €9.00 | €7.49 |
| 10 GB | €24.60 | €24.60 | €19.00 | €22.00 | €20.80 | €17.24 |
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How to Choose the Right eSIM for India
When selecting the best eSIM for India, consider these factors:
- Coverage and Speed: Opt for providers with strong partnerships with Indian telecom operators.
- Pricing: Assess the cost-effectiveness of data plans for your duration and usage.
- Ease of Activation: Ensure the eSIM offers instant setup via app or QR code.
- Support for Multiple Countries: If India is part of a multi-destination trip, choose a provider with regional or global plans.
- Data Flexibility: Check for plans that suit light, moderate, or heavy data consumption.
How to Activate an eSIM for India
Activating an eSIM is a straightforward process:
- Purchase your preferred eSIM plan from providers like Saily, Airhub, BNESIM, or Gigsky.
- Download the app or receive a QR code via email.
- Open your phone’s Settings, navigate to Mobile Data, and select Add Data Plan.
- Scan the QR code or follow the app’s instructions to activate the eSIM.
- Choose eSIM as your primary data provider, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout your trip.
Find out more about the top 3 providers:
1. Airhub: Advanced Connectivity Solutions
Airhub stands out with its smart eSIM solutions designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. With a focus on simplicity and reliability, Airhub ensures your connection in India is uninterrupted.
Key Features:
- AI-powered recommendations for tailored data packages.
- Multi-country eSIM plans for regional travel.
- Instant top-up and plan management through the app.
- Voice & SMS features
Airhub’s robust service ensures that whether you’re exploring the streets of Delhi or working remotely from the beaches of Goa, you’re always connected.
2. BNESIM: Unlimited Global Access
For those seeking flexibility, BNESIM provides customizable options that are perfect for India and beyond. Known for its innovative approach to eSIM technology, BNESIM is ideal for heavy data users or digital nomads.
Key Features:
- Unlimited data plans for India and neighboring countries.
- Voice and SMS packages are available.
- Advanced features like VoIP for international calls.
- eSIMs with no expiration
With BNESIM, you can enjoy uninterrupted browsing, video streaming, and communication, making it a reliable companion for every type of traveler.
3. Ubigi: Simplifying Travel Connectivity
Ubigi offers a range of eSIM plans that ensure smooth connectivity across India. Its straightforward pricing and global presence make it a popular choice for travelers who prioritize hassle-free service.
Key Features:
- Flexible data plans
- Coverage on premium Indian networks.
- Pay-as-you-go options for occasional users.
Ubigi’s streamlined approach allows you to focus on your travel experiences without worrying about connectivity issues.
India eSIM Compatibility: Will Your Phone Work?
Most modern smartphones support eSIMs, but not all. Here’s a quick list of eSIM-compatible devices:
📱 Apple – iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and newer.
📱 Samsung – Galaxy S20 series and newer, Note 20, Z Fold, Flip models.
📱 Google Pixel – Pixel 3 and newer.
📱 Others – Many high-end Oppo, Huawei, and Motorola models.
Before purchasing, double-check if your device supports eSIM and if your network carrier allows eSIM activation.
Benefits of Using an eSIM Over Traditional SIM Cards in India
An eSIM offers unmatched advantages compared to physical SIM cards:
- Convenience: No need to hunt for local SIM cards upon arrival.
- Eco-friendly: Reduces plastic waste associated with physical SIMs.
- Secure: Enhanced security features protect user data.
- Flexibility: Easily switch between plans or carriers without removing a SIM card.
For tourists and business travelers, these benefits translate into a hassle-free travel experience.
Coverage and Network Quality in India
India has excellent mobile network coverage in cities and tourist areas, but remote regions may have weaker signals. Here’s what you need to know:
📍 Major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, etc.) – Excellent 4G/5G coverage from Airtel, Jio, and Vi. 📍 Tourist destinations (Goa, Rajasthan, Kerala, Ladakh, etc.) – Good coverage, but remote areas may have limited connectivity. 📍 Rural areas and the Himalayas – Coverage can be spotty. If you’re heading to remote areas, download offline maps in advance.
Still need/want a SIM card for India? Get it here.
Conclusion: Is an India eSIM Worth It?
Absolutely! If you want hassle-free connectivity in India without the complications of buying a physical SIM card, an eSIM is your best bet. Whether you go with an international provider for ease of use or a local provider for better rates, having an eSIM ensures you stay connected throughout your trip.
🚀 Ready to get started? Check out the best India eSIM providers and pick the plan that suits your travel needs! Need help? Contact us.
