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India eSIM
Staying connected across India doesn't need to be complicated. An India eSIM from Prepaid SIMs gives you mobile data on local Indian networks from the moment you arrive. Install it on your phone before you leave Australia, activate when you land and you're online. No roaming fees, no SIM card registration and no hunting for a mobile shop at the airport.
Travelling somewhere else?
How does prepaidsims compare?
- AUD Pricing
- No Roaming Fees
- Flexible Data Options
- Local Phone Number
- Easy Setup
- Aussie Support
- Money Back Promise
Int’l Roaming &
Others
- USD/EU Pricing
- Daily Fees & Charges
- Limited Data Options
- Restricted Number
- Complicated Setup
- Limited Support
- No Guarantees
Which India eSIM travellers need
India is vast and varied. A week in Rajasthan looks nothing like a fortnight in Kerala or a business trip to Mumbai. Your data needs depend on where you're going and what kind of trip you're taking. Here's how different travellers use their India eSIM on the ground.
The first-timer doing the Golden Triangle
Delhi, Agra and Jaipur form India's most popular tourist route. If this is your first time in India, you'll lean heavily on your eSIM for navigation, translation and ride-hailing. Google Maps works well in all three cities and is essential for navigating Delhi's sprawling layout and finding your way between monuments.
Uber and Ola both operate across the Golden Triangle. Having your India eSIM active means you can book rides without relying on hotel Wi-Fi. Both apps show upfront pricing, which removes the need to negotiate with auto-rickshaw drivers, though bargaining is part of the experience if you're up for it.
Google Translate's camera feature is handy for Hindi signage at train stations, restaurants and markets. Download the Hindi language pack before you leave Australia so it works faster on the go.
The backpacker heading south
If you're doing the backpacker trail through Goa, Kerala and Karnataka, your India eSIM keeps you connected for hostel bookings, train schedules and beach recommendations. Coverage in Goa is strong across the main beach areas from Anjuna down to Palolem. Kerala's cities like Kochi and Trivandrum have excellent signal, and the houseboat routes through the backwaters maintain coverage for most of the journey.
For train travel, the IRCTC app or Trainman handles bookings and live train tracking. Indian trains are the backbone of budget travel here and having a data connection at stations helps you find your platform, check delays and pull up e-tickets. Your eSIM keeps these apps running throughout the journey, though signal can thin in the most rural stretches between cities.
Hostel booking apps like Hostelworld and Goibibo work well on Indian networks. Being able to book your next stop from the current one, rather than planning everything in advance, gives you the flexibility that backpacking India is all about.
The business traveller in Mumbai or Bangalore
Mumbai and Bangalore are India's two biggest business hubs. Coverage in both cities is excellent. Your India eSIM keeps email, calendar and video call apps running between meetings. The main business districts in Mumbai (Bandra Kurla Complex, Lower Parel, Nariman Point) and Bangalore (Whitefield, Koramangala, MG Road) all have strong 4G signal.
For getting around, Uber and Ola are the most reliable options in both cities. Mumbai's local trains are fast but extremely crowded during peak hours. Your eSIM keeps the m-Indicator app running, which shows real-time Mumbai train schedules and platform information.
If you need to hop between cities, domestic flights and trains both require a data connection for e-tickets and check-in. Your India eSIM handles all of this without needing to connect to airport or station Wi-Fi.
Before you fly
- Download Uber and Ola before you arrive. Both work across India's major cities for cars, auto-rickshaws and bike taxis. Your India eSIM keeps them connected for rides.
- Get the IRCTC app for train bookings. Train travel is the best way to cover long distances in India. The app handles bookings, live tracking and e-tickets.
- Download the Hindi language pack in Google Translate. The camera feature helps with menus, signs and station information. It works offline once downloaded.
- Keep your Aussie SIM active for banking codes. Your India eSIM runs alongside your existing Australian number. Switch your Aussie SIM's mobile data off to avoid roaming charges.
How much India eSIM data do you need
India is a moderate data destination. Navigation, messaging, ride-hailing and photo sharing are the main uses for most travellers.
- 5GB covers a short 3-5 day city trip to Delhi or Mumbai with light browsing and messaging.
- 10GB suits a 1-2 week trip across multiple cities, including daily navigation, Uber rides and social media.
- 20GB is best for longer stays, heavy photo sharing or anyone relying on video calls and streaming.
India eSIM FAQs
Will my India eSIM work in smaller towns and rural areas?
Coverage is strong in cities and major tourist destinations. In smaller towns and rural areas, signal varies. The main routes between popular destinations like Delhi-Agra, Goa's beaches and Kerala's backwaters all have coverage, but very remote areas may have weaker signal.
Can I use Uber and Ola with my India eSIM?
Yes. Both ride-hailing apps work across India's major cities. Your India eSIM provides the data connection they need for booking, tracking and payment. Having both apps installed gives you more options, especially during busy periods.
How do I set up my India eSIM?
After purchasing, you'll receive an email with a QR code and step-by-step instructions. Scan the code on your unlocked, eSIM-compatible device to install the profile. We recommend doing this before you leave Australia.
Is an India eSIM cheaper than roaming with my Aussie carrier?
Significantly. Australian carriers charge high daily rates for roaming in India. An India eSIM is a flat, prepaid cost with no surprise charges. You know exactly what you're paying before you leave.
Can I make phone calls with an India eSIM?
Our India eSIM plans are data-only. For calls and texts, use WhatsApp, FaceTime or Messenger over your eSIM data connection. These apps all work well on Indian networks.
Do I need a VPN in India?
Most apps and websites work normally in India. Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and social media platforms are all accessible. There are no major internet restrictions for tourists.
Will my India eSIM work on Indian trains?
Yes, your eSIM works on India's rail network. Coverage is strong at major stations and on routes between popular cities. Signal can vary on some long-distance rural stretches, but you'll have connectivity at most stations and in built-up areas.
Exploring more of Asia? Our Japan eSIM plans cover Tokyo, Osaka and beyond. We also have a Thailand eSIM for Bangkok and the islands, a Singapore eSIM and an Asia eSIM covering 13 countries on a single plan. If your phone doesn't support eSIM, our India SIM card ships to your door before you fly.