eSIM India
Best eSIM For India: Complete Guide for Travelers
Nov
Mumbai’s bustling streets, Kerala’s peaceful backwaters, Rajasthan’s historic palaces. India offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Finding Your Perfect eSIM for India
Mumbai’s bustling streets, Kerala’s peaceful backwaters, Rajasthan’s historic palaces. India offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. To share these moments, find your way around, and stay connected, you need internet access.
Public wifi spots are unreliable, and your home carrier’s international roaming fees add up fast. Local physical SIM cards mean wasting travel time in stores, dealing with language barriers, and handling paperwork.
Travelers who know better choose eSIM technology. An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Download a data plan and connect the moment you arrive. It costs less, works faster, and saves time.
Our team tested 11 providers to identify the best eSIM options for India. One esim provider stands out for combining strong performance with competitive pricing.
Our Recommendation: eSIM4
For India travel, we recommend eSIM4. This service delivers reliable connectivity on major networks, transparent pricing, and features designed for international travelers.
Why eSIM4 Leads for India
- Strong Network Partnership: eSIM4 connects through Jio, India’s largest carrier, giving you solid 4G and 5G coverage across cities and rural areas.
- Instant Setup: Get your eSIM QR code by email right after purchase. Install the esim at home before your flight. Your esim plan activates when you land in India.
- Clear Pricing: No surprise charges or hidden fees. Save up to 51% compared to standard roaming rates at affordable prices.
- Proven Track Record: Over 100,000 global travelers trust eSIM4, backed by 24/7 customer support.
- Data Sharing Allowed: All data plans include hotspot support, so you can share data with other devices.
- Multiple Plan Options: Choose from 6 different data packages to match your trip length and data usage needs.
Quick Comparison: Leading eSIM Options for India
Compare the top eSIM providers at a glance to narrow your choices.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Network Partner |
Plans | Starting Price |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.85/5 | Jio | 11 options | $2.98 | Best overall package |
| 2 | Saily | 4.65/5 | Major networks | 6 options | $3.79 | Quick trips |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.6/5 | Major networks | 6 options | $3.50 | Quick trips |
| 4 | Jetpac | 4.6/5 | Multiple carriers | 5 options | $1.00 | Budget travel |
| 5 | Nomad | 4.5/5 | Jio/Airtel | 5 options | $4.00 | Simple setup |
| 6 | Holafly | 4.3/5 | Major networks | Unlimited only | $6.90 | Heavy data users |
| 7 | GigSky | 4.2/5 | Multiple carriers | 7 options | $3.74 | Plan flexibility |
| 8 | aloSIM | 4.2/5 | Major networks | 6 options | $4.50 | Local numbers |
| 9 | Roamless | 4.0/5 | Multiple carriers | Pay-as-you-go | $3.95/GB | Flexible usage |
| 10 | Ubigi | 4.0/5 | Major networks | 4 options | $5.00 | Simple interface |
| 11 | BNESIM | 3.9/5 | Major networks | 5 options | $1.63 | Extra features |
Choosing the Right eSIM for Your Trip
eSIM4 is our top pick, but every traveler has different needs. After 2,400+ hours of testing, here are the factors that matter when comparing eSIM services. All these are prepaid plans.
Key Factors to Evaluate
| Factor | Considerations | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Data Amount | How much data do you need? Light browsing and navigation use minimal mobile data. Video streaming and hotspots consume data quickly. Better to estimate high or pick a provider with easy top-ups. | Better to estimate high or select a provider offering easy top-ups mid-trip if you run low. |
| Plan Duration | Match your plan’s validity (7, 15, or 30 days) to your trip length. A 30-day plan wastes money if you’re only visiting India for a week. | A 30-day plan wastes money if you’re only visiting India for a week. |
| Network Coverage | Check which local carrier the eSIM uses. Services on Jio or Airtel networks offer reliable coverage across India. All work well in cities. Rural coverage varies by network. | Urban areas work well everywhere, but rural reliable coverage varies significantly. |
| Cost Per Gigabyte | Don’t just compare total prices for India. Calculate cost per GB for true value. A $20 plan with 10GB ($2/GB) beats a $10 plan with 3GB ($3.33/GB) substantially. | A $20 plan with 10GB ($2/GB) beats a $10 plan with 3GB ($3.33/GB) substantially. |
| Voice Calls and SMS | Most esims provide data only. Need a real phone number for local calls? Only specific esim providers offer this. Others require apps like WhatsApp. | Only specific esim providers offer this. Others require apps like WhatsApp. |
| Connection Speed | Look for 4G/LTE or 5G support. This ensures fast browsing and smooth navigation throughout India. | This ensures fast browsing and smooth navigation throughout India. |
Top eSIM Services for India
Detailed reviews of our recommended providers, starting with our featured choice.
eSIM4
Best Overall Package
For India travel, eSIM4 delivers the best combination of network quality, pricing, and features. Operating on Jio, India’s largest carrier, it offers reliable 4G and 5G speeds in major cities and remote areas.
eSIM4 Plans for India (Current Promotion)
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $8.10 $2.98 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $13.50 $5.98 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $17.10 $8.98 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $25.20 $13.98 |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $36.90 $18.98 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $43.20 $22.98 |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $56.70 $29.98 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $68.40 $37.98 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $71.10 $37.98 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $82.80 $45.98 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $111.60 $68.98 |
Three-Step Connection Process
1. Purchase Your Data Pack: Choose your data plan and buy online from anywhere. Receive eSIM details instantly by email.
2. Get Activation Code: QR code arrives via email and WhatsApp with installation instructions.
3. Install and Activate: Scan the QR code to set up your esim before departure. Enable the data plan in phone settings when you arrive in India.
Advantages:
Pros
- Operates on premium Jio network
- Immediate activation
- Save up to 51% versus roaming
- Round-the-clock support
- Hotspot functionality included
- Wide coverage across India
Limitations
- Data-only plans
- Requires compatible device
Saily
Quick trips
Saily ranks among the most recognized eSIM brands. Known for budget-friendly options and short-term packages, it partners with major Indian networks for 5G access. Local plans are data-only, but global “Discover+” plans support calls and texts, making Saily a flexible choice if you’re traveling beyond India.
Saily India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.79 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $6.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $7.50 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $23.50 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Global plans include calls/texts
- Extensive regional coverage
- Quick installation
- Affordable short-term plans
Limitations
- Local Indian plans lack voice features
- No unlimited options
Airalo
Quick trips
Airalo ranks among the most recognized eSIM brands. Known for budget-friendly options and short-term packages, it partners with major Indian networks for 5G access. Local plans are data-only, but global “Discover+” plans support calls and texts, making Airalo a flexible choice if you’re traveling beyond India.
Airalo India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $6.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $7.50 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $23.50 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Global plans include calls/texts
- Extensive regional coverage
- Quick installation
- Affordable short-term plans
Limitations
- Local Indian plans lack voice features
- No unlimited options
Jetpac
Budget travel
Jetpac focuses on maximum data at minimum cost. New users often get promotional offers (like $1 for 1GB). Provides high-speed 5G access. Data-only service, so you need apps for communication.
Jetpac India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 Days | $5.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $7.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $12.00 |
| 40 GB | 30 Days | $35.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Lowest starting prices
- 5G compatible
- Easy setup process
Limitations
- Data-only service
- No unlimited packages
Nomad
Simple setup
Nomad offers clean, straightforward service. Great for first-time eSIM users. Partners with top Indian networks (Jio, Airtel) for 5G access. Data-only, with flexible options including daily plans. Speeds may throttle after daily high-speed limits.
Nomad India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $12.50 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- QR code activation is simple
- Daily and monthly options
- 5G support included
Limitations
- Data-only plans
- No unlimited or pay-per-use options
Holafly
Heavy data users
Holafly specializes in unlimited data. Perfect for streaming, uploading, or remote work. Never worry about running out of data. Trade-off: hotspot sharing limited to 500MB daily. Data-only service.
Holafly India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 1 Day | $6.90 |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $12.90 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $36.90 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $74.90 |
| Unlimited | 90 Days | $139.90 |
Advantages:
Pros
- True unlimited data packages
- 1 to 90 day options
- 5G connectivity
Limitations
- Restricted hotspot sharing
- No voice calls
- Higher cost
GigSky
Plan flexibility
GigSky provides wide plan variety from fixed data to unlimited options. Free 100MB trial for new users. Unlimited plans throttle after 2.5GB daily use, but no data-sharing limits like Holafly.
GigSky India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.99 |
| 3 GB | 15 Days | $9.34 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $14.02 |
| Unlimited | 1 Day | $3.74 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $21.74 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $56.24 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Fixed and unlimited choices
- Free trial available
- Cruise and flight plans offered
Limitations
- Unlimited plans have throttling
- Data-only
aloSIM
Local numbers
Like certain providers, aloSIM offers call and text functions. Each plan includes a phone number via partner app Hushed with starting credit. Strong alternative if local numbers matter.
aloSIM India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $7.50 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $14.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $23.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $36.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $35.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- All plans support calls/SMS
- 5G available
- Fair pricing
Limitations
- Requires separate app for calls
Roamless
Flexible usage
Roamless works as true pay-as-you-go. Add credit to your account and data never expires. Perfect for uncertain usage or multiple trips yearly. Not ideal if you want bundled unlimited packages.
Roamless India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 500 MB | Never expires | Free (New Users) |
| 1 GB | Never expires | $3.95 |
| 5 GB | Never expires | $10.95 |
| 10 GB | Never expires | $17.45 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Non-expiring data
- Pay only for usage
- In-app calling supported
- Free trial included
Limitations
- No unlimited bundles
- Calls through app only
Ubigi
Simple interface
Ubigi focuses on simplicity. Clean interface makes it accessible for first-time eSIM users. Partners with major Indian networks. Data-only service with straightforward plan selection.
Ubigi India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 30 Days | $5.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $12.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $18.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $32.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Clean, easy interface
- All plans 30-day validity
- Reliable network partners
Limitations
- Data-only
- Limited plan variety
- No unlimited options
BNESIM
Extra features
BNESIM goes beyond basic eSIM service. Besides cheap data plans (both fixed and pay-as-you-go), it offers physical SIMs, international numbers, built-in VPN, and portable WiFi devices.
BNESIM India Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 30 Days | $1.63 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $4.71 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $7.65 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $14.65 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $28.64 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Very low pricing
- 30-day validity standard
- Many extra features (VPN included)
Limitations
- Interface might overwhelm new users
Our Final Recommendation
For the vast majority of travelers planning a trip to India, we recommend eSIM4.
It delivers the perfect balance of high-speed data on the top-tier Jio network, a wide range of plans to suit any itinerary, and the unique, powerful ability to add calls and SMS via the Yabb app. You get the best esim functionality without compromising on speed, support, or value.
Get eSIM4 For India →How To Make Calls With eSIM In India
Most travel esim options like eSIM4 provide data-only plans, which means you’ll use internet-based calling apps like whatsapp to make phone calls while heading to India. However, there’s also a dedicated solution specifically designed for calling with your eSIM: Yabb.
Using Yabb for International Calls with Your eSIM
Yabb is owned by eSIM4 and provides a seamless way to make international calls using your eSIM data connection. With Yabb, you can:
Yabb Calling Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase calling minutes as you need them with flexible calling packages.
- Clear Call Quality: Enjoy crystal-clear quality connections for your calls.
- Call Anywhere: Make calls using your data to friends and family on any landline or mobile, no matter where you are in India.
- Multiple Countries: Call to 200+ countries worldwide to stay in touch with family.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing with no surprise charges or contracts.
- Download the App: Available on both iPhone App Store and Google Play.
Yabb integrates perfectly with your eSIM4 data plan, allowing you to make calls using your data plan without relying solely on WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other apps. This is especially useful if you need to call local Indian numbers for bookings, reservations, or emergencies while travelling in India.
Learn More About Yabb Calling →How To Send Text Messages With eSIM
Sending text messages internationally is easy with eSIM, and if you’re using eSIM4, you have the option to use Yabb for SMS messaging as well. Most esim providers offer data-only plans, but Yabb provides a dedicated SMS service that works perfectly with your travel esim setup.
Yabb SMS Messaging Service
Yabb allows you to send and receive text messages to 200+ countries, making it ideal for staying in touch with family while you’re using data from your eSIM in India. Here’s what you need to know:
Yabb SMS Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase different esim data packages as needed – from 100 SMS credits to 5000+ credits.
- Flexible Packages: Choose from various SMS credit options without committing to contracts.
- Global Coverage: Send text messages to friends and family across 200+ countries.
- Text Anywhere: Send and receive SMS messages from anywhere in India using your eSIM.
- No Hidden Fees: No hidden charges or surprise fees – what you buy is what you get.
- Receive Messages: Get text messages to your Yabb number included with your SMS credit package.
When you’re travelling in India with an eSIM4 data plan, having Yabb SMS as a backup ensures you can always reach out to friends, family, or make important reservations via text message. This combination of esim data and SMS service gives you complete connectivity without relying solely on data-dependent messaging apps.
Learn More About Yabb SMS →Why eSIMs Work Better in India
If you have traveled to India before, you know that buying a physical SIM card is not a simple process. Due to strict security regulations, obtaining a local SIM involves submitting passport copies, visa details, and photographs, followed by a verification process that can take hours or even days to activate.
The eSIM advantage: Travel eSIMs bypass this bureaucracy completely. Because you are roaming on a partner network (like Jio or Airtel), no local identity verification (KYC) is required. You simply scan, activate, and connect the moment your plane touches down.
Additionally, keeping your main SIM active allows you to receive One-Time Passwords (OTPs) from your bank or email accounts back home, which is essential for safe travel.
Making Phone Calls with Your eSIM
Most travelers are surprised to find that travel eSIMs for India are typically “data-only.” This means you do not get a local Indian phone number (+91) for voice calls. However, this is rarely an issue for modern travelers.
How to stay in touch:
- WhatsApp: This is the primary mode of communication in India. From tuk-tuk drivers to 5-star hotels and tour guides, almost everyone in India uses WhatsApp for calls and messaging.
- VoIP Apps: Use FaceTime Audio, Skype, or Facebook Messenger for calling home.
- Emergency Calls: Even without a data plan or active SIM, mobile phones can typically dial emergency services (112 in India).
Sending Text Messages
Since most eSIM plans do not come with a phone number, you cannot send traditional SMS text messages via the mobile network.
The Solution: relying on iMessage (for iPhone users) or WhatsApp/Telegram allows you to text seamlessly over your data connection. If you absolutely need to receive SMS verification codes from home, ensure your home country’s physical SIM is enabled (but data roaming is turned OFF) to receive texts for free, depending on your carrier.
Common Questions Answered
Will my phone work with an eSIM in India?
Most smartphones manufactured after 2018 support eSIM technology. This includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer. You can check your phone settings or dial *#06# to see if an EID number appears, indicating compatibility.
Can I use WhatsApp with a new eSIM?
Yes. When you switch to an eSIM for data, WhatsApp will ask if you want to keep your existing number. Select “Keep” and you can continue using your original account and contacts seamlessly.
Which network is best in India?
Jio currently offers the most extensive 4G and 5G coverage across India, followed closely by Airtel. Our top recommendation, eSIM4, operates on the Jio network, ensuring you have coverage in both major metros and more rural tourist destinations.
Can I share my data (Hotspot)?
Yes, most providers including eSIM4, Airalo, and Nomad allow tethering/hotspot usage. However, Holafly (Unlimited plans) restricts hotspot usage to 500MB per day.
Do I need to register with my Passport?
No. Unlike buying a physical SIM card at an Indian airport kiosk, purchasing a travel eSIM online does not require submitting passport copies or undergoing KYC verification.
