eSIM for India: travel data plans (2026)
Travelling to India? Skip pricey roaming. An eSIM puts a local-rate data plan on your phone before you even land — activate in minutes, no physical SIM and no airport queue. Here's how eSIMs work in India, how much data to buy, and the providers to use.
- CapitalNew Delhi
- RegionSouthern Asia
- Mobile networksJio, Airtel, Vi
- Works before you landYes — install in minutes
Best eSIM options for India
The two most popular travel eSIM providers with plans for India are below. Tap through for current data bundles and live prices.
Prices and bundles are set by the providers and change often — figures here are indicative; check the provider for live details. Links may be partner links.
How much data do you need in India?
For a typical trip to India: 1 GB covers a few days of maps, messaging and the odd lookup; 3–5 GB suits a 1–2 week trip with regular browsing and social; choose an unlimited plan if you stream, hotspot a laptop, or rely on video calls. Wi‑Fi in hotels and cafés will stretch any plan further.
Mobile networks in India
India's main mobile networks are Jio, Airtel and Vi. Most travel eSIMs for India connect to one of these, so coverage matches a local SIM — 4G/LTE is widely available and 5G is live in the larger cities.
How to set up your India eSIM
- Check compatibility — most phones since ~2018 (recent iPhone, Pixel, Samsung Galaxy) support eSIM and are carrier-unlocked.
- Buy a India plan from a provider above before you travel.
- Install the eSIM by scanning the QR code or tapping the in-app install — do this on Wi‑Fi.
- On arrival, turn on data roaming for the eSIM line. You're online without hunting for a local SIM.