Which SIM card is best for India? Should you buy one in Israel, or is it better to buy one in India?
Many companies take advantage of travelers who are nervous about spending several months in India. There is little information online, and even sites with some advice will eventually try to sell you a SIM card from Israel at an inflated price.
So we're here to clear things up.
The best and cheapest option: Buy your phone SIM card in India. Most travelers buy a SIM in India and top it up with a data plan, so they can call family back home using Skype, WhatsApp, Messenger and other apps.
All ESIM options cost 4 times as much as local plans in India. We recommend buying a plan in India rather than before you arrive.
SIM plans in India: how much do they cost, and what do you get?
The recommended plan includes 2.5 GB per day and costs 299 Indian rupees for 28 days. That is plenty for all kinds of browsing, and it also includes unlimited local calls and texts.
Airtel offers unlimited 5G data throughout India. If you have 5G reception, just log in to your Airtel account and tap 5G unlimited to enjoy unlimited data.
Generally, the SIM is valid for 84 days, or until you leave India.
The SIM is registered to you personally. If you pass it on to someone else after returning home, it will most likely stop working a few days after you leave India.
Kashmir and Ladakh
For security reasons, an Indian SIM bought outside Ladakh and Kashmir will not work in Ladakh or Kashmir.
Important to know:
SIM cards in India now start working immediately after setup. Previously, it took about 24 hours for a SIM bought in India to be activated for calls and data.
To buy a SIM in India, all you need is your passport.
Airtel
India's most popular SIM provider. Works very well across most of India. A typical plan costs 300 - 400 rupees for 28 days.
BSNL
Good coverage around Hampi, Karnataka.
VODAFONE
The second-largest provider after Airtel. Also good for Goa.
TATA
Very good for South India.
IDEA
Usually works very well in Goa. (Other providers are not great in Goa.)
We highly recommend an Airtel SIM. Advantages: Works almost everywhere in India.
