eSIM India: Effortless Travel Connectivity with Our Top-Rated Plans

An embedded SIM card, or eSIM, is a digital version of a physical SIM card. There are two main types of prepaid eSIMs available:

1. Data-only eSIMs provide mobile internet access but do not come with a local phone number. They allow using data services like maps, messaging apps, web browsing, etc. However, you cannot make regular calls or send SMS texts without a phone number.
2. Full-service eSIMs work just like a traditional SIM card. They provide a local India phone number plus data connectivity. This allows making calls, sending texts, and using mobile internet.

For tourists traveling to India, most eSIM options are data-only plans. They give you mobile data to stay connected online, use travel apps, maps, and contact people via Internet messaging. But they do not support voice calls or SMS without a local number.

Travelers can use a India data eSIM to access useful apps and services during their trip, like Google Maps, WhatsApp, Skype, travel sites, email etc. While not a full replacement for a SIM card, data eSIMs meet the needs of most tourists who just need connectivity and internet access in India. They can be purchased conveniently online before the trip starts.

There are two main categories of eSIM providers that offer plans for travel to India:

1. Local Indian mobile operators: The major cellular networks in India are Jio, Airtel, Vi (Vodafone Idea), and BSNL. They each offer eSIM plans directly to tourists visiting India.
2. Global eSIM providers: These companies provide eSIMs for multiple countries worldwide, including India travel plans. They are not affiliated with specific Indian networks.

The local Indian mobile operators offer eSIM plans on their own networks - Jio, Airtel, Vi, or BSNL. This provides direct access to their network coverage and speeds.

The global eSIM providers generally resell or lease capacity from Indian mobile networks. They can offer India connectivity on Jio, Airtel, Vi, or BSNL depending on their agreements.

Next, we can explore the specific eSIM plan options, pricing, and features offered by the local Indian mobile operators versus the global eSIM providers for travel to India. This will help compare the pros and cons of the two provider categories.

Purchasing eSIM directly from Indian mobile operators has some advantages but also disadvantages for tourists:

Pros:

• Purchasing an eSIM straight from an Indian operator provides faster internet speeds since you use their network infrastructure directly rather than routing indirectly through a reseller.

Cons:

• Buying an eSIM directly from Indian mobile operators requires submitting your passport details to comply with local telecom regulations.

1.1 Jio India eSIM

Jio is the leading mobile network operator in India. Their eSIM service allows tourists to access high-speed 4G data across India.

Jio eSIM plans for travelers include:

• 5GB data valid for 7 days
• 10GB data valid for 15 days

The benefit of Jio's India eSIM is direct connectivity on their widespread 4G network. However, submitting your passport details is required when purchasing.

1.2 Airtel India eSIM

Airtel is another top mobile carrier in India providing eSIM connectivity. Their tourist eSIM packs offer:

• 5GB data for 7 days
• 10GB data for 15 days

To use Airtel's India eSIM, you need to provide your passport details when purchasing. Activation is done through their app.

Benefits of the Airtel eSIM include:

• Local Indian number provided
• Strong 4G coverage across India
• Easy activation process

1.3 Vi (Vodafone Idea) India eSIM

Vodafone Idea, branded as Vi, is a leading telecom operator in India. Their eSIM for travelers allows connectivity across India.

You can directly purchase a Vi tourist eSIM pack and activate it through their app by submitting your passport details.

Advantages of Vi India eSIM:

• Provides local Indian number
• Reliable 4G speeds
• Easy to activate and use

In summary, the major Indian operator eSIMs offer direct network access but require passport registration. They provide fast 4G connectivity compared to reseller eSIMs.

Buy and Receive in 5 minutes.

Method 2: Check your phone setting

Check whether your devices support eSIM following these steps.