🇮🇳 India eSIM

Before you go

• Coverage across the cities and the main tourist circuit is good and data is fast. Rural coverage varies a lot by state.
• Many Indian apps and services verify by SMS to an Indian number. A data-only eSIM can't receive those, so set up anything you'll need (ride-hailing, payment apps) before you travel.
• Trains cross long stretches with weak signal, particularly through central India. Download entertainment and tickets before a long journey.
• These are data-only plans. They don't come with a local phone number, and they don't carry calls or texts, so keep your normal SIM switched on for those and let the eSIM handle data.
• The plan starts when it first connects to a network at your destination, not when you buy it. Buy it weeks ahead if you like; the clock starts when you land.
• Install it before you fly, over your home Wi-Fi. Installing needs an internet connection, which is the one thing you won't have at the airport.
• Don't delete an eSIM to make room for another one. An activation code only works once, and your phone can hold several profiles side by side.

India eSIM questions

Can I use UPI or Indian payment apps with a travel eSIM?

Generally not. UPI is tied to an Indian bank account and an Indian mobile number, neither of which a data-only travel eSIM provides. Cards and cash remain the practical options for visitors.

Will it work in Ladakh and the Himalayas?

Sparsely. High-altitude Ladakh has limited coverage even on local networks, and some border areas restrict it further. Plan to be offline.

How much data for two weeks?

10 GB comfortably covers two weeks of maps, messaging and photos across the main cities.

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