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Best eSIMS
Heading to India? Staying connected has become incredibly easy with the advent of eSIM technology — quick to activate, hassle-free, and easy on your wallet. Here’s what you need to know to pick the perfect eSIM for your Indian exploration.
As more travelers seek a seamless way to stay online, eSIMs are quickly gaining popularity. They eliminate the hassle of swapping SIM cards and help you sidestep complicated roaming fees. As a result, eSIMs are fast becoming the go-to solution for reliable, hassle-free connectivity wherever your travels lead.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best eSIM options for India in 2025, so you can enjoy everything from bustling cities to serene landscapes without worry.
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital alternative to the physical SIM card. It allows you to activate a cellular plan through a QR code or profile download — no need to swap out your existing SIM card.
eSIMs offer the same benefits as SIM cards but can be set up in minutes. You can even activate them before you arrive, streamlining your travel preparations.
In India, an eSIM ensures you stay connected throughout your journey. It’s particularly helpful for:
India boasts widespread 4G coverage across urban and many suburban areas. While 5G is being introduced in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, it is still expanding in rural regions.
Free Wi-Fi is common in urban settings like cafes, restaurants, malls, and public spaces, but connections can sometimes be slow or unsecured. It’s best to avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi to safeguard your data.
Opting for a personal data plan is the safest way to stay reliably connected for navigation, translation, and on-the-go information. Here’s what you might want:
Selecting the right eSIM can greatly enhance your travel experience in India, keeping you connected effortlessly and letting you focus on enjoying your journey.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Based on our research, these are the top eSIM providers in India:
Rating: 4.6/5 (TrustPilot)
Pricing: Starts at $6.90 per day for unlimited data
Coverage: Supported in over 200 countries, with extensive coverage throughout India.
Calls/SMS: No
Holafly is a reliable choice for anyone heading to India. With its unlimited data plans, you can stay connected without the worry of running out of data — perfect for navigating busy streets, sharing your experiences, or streaming your favorite content.
Their plans are highly flexible, letting you select coverage durations from just a day to several weeks, so you can customize according to your trip. Activation is straightforward: once you purchase your plan, your eSIM is ready to use the moment you land. Simply scan a QR code or follow the easy instructions in the app — no technical skills needed.
Rated 4.6/5 on TrustPilot, many travelers appreciate how simple and dependable the service is, with quick setup and helpful customer support. Prices for India start at $9.90 per day for unlimited data.
One thing to keep in mind: Holafly’s plans mainly focus on data. If you need to make calls or send SMS messages, you might want to explore other options. However, if seamless streaming and staying online are your priorities, Holafly is an excellent option.
Plan | Price | Duration |
Unlimited data | $6.90 | 1 day |
Unlimited data | $20.90 | 3 days |
Unlimited data | $31.90 | 5 days |
Unlimited data | $39.90 | 7 days |
Unlimited data | $47.90 | 10 days |
Unlimited data | $61.90 | 14 days |
Pros:
Cons:
Rating: 4.1/5 (TrustPilot)
Pricing: Starts at $3.99 for 1 GB of data over seven days
Coverage: Over 200 countries worldwide
Calls/SMS: No
Though a relatively new name in the eSIM scene, Saily has already earned a reputation for providing great service at competitive prices. Once you purchase a plan, it’s instantly delivered, and activation happens automatically when you arrive in India. Just make sure you’ve installed the eSIM before landing and that data roaming is enabled.
The setup is straightforward: you’ll get a QR code or input a few details manually. Managing your plan is super easy using their user-friendly app, giving you control over your data and plan options.
Unfortunately, Saily doesn't offer unlimited plans for India. However, it provides flexible options ranging from seven to 30 days, with various data allowances that let you stream, browse, and share your connection via hotspot without much hassle.
Many travelers appreciate how simple and fast the service is, with reliable speeds and extra features like virtual location switching for better privacy. Prices start at just $3.99 for a 7-day 1 GB plan. While Saily doesn’t support voice calls or SMS, it’s an excellent choice for those mainly needing dependable data for VoIP apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime during their adventures in India.
Plan | Price | Duration |
1 GB | $3.99 | 7 days |
3 GB | $9.99 | 30 days |
5 GB | $13.99 | 30 days |
10 GB | $23.99 | 30 days |
20 GB | $38.99 | 30 days |
Pros:
Cons:
See also: Saily vs Airalo: which one to choose in 2025?
Rating: 2.6/5 (TrustPilot)
Pricing: Starts at $4.50 for 1 GB of data over a seven-day period
Coverage: Available in over 200 countries and regions
Calls/SMS: Yes, but only on certain plans
Airalo is a popular choice among travelers heading to India, thanks to its easy setup and wide coverage. Available in over 200 countries and regions, Airalo gives you the flexibility to travel across India and beyond with just a single eSIM.
If you’re carrying multiple devices, its hotspot-sharing feature makes it easy to keep everything connected at once.
Getting started is simple and quick. After selecting your plan, you can install the eSIM by scanning a QR code or manually entering the details through the Airalo app. Plans are affordable and flexible, starting at around $4.50 for 1 GB over 7 days. There are options for more data, longer durations, and even an unlimited plan.
Just a heads-up: some users have noted that customer support can be a bit inconsistent. So, if you think you might need assistance during your trip, it’s worth keeping that in mind.
Plan | Price | Duration |
1 GB | $4.50 | 7 days |
2 GB | $8.00 | 15 days |
3 GB | $10.50 | 30 days |
5 GB | $15.00 | 30 days |
10 GB | $25.00 | 30 days |
20 GB | $40.00 | 30 days |
Unlimited | $35.00 | 10 days |
Pros:
Cons:
Rating: 4.6/5
Pricing: From $1.00 for 1 GB of data over four days
Coverage: Available in 200+ countries
Calls/SMS: No
Jetpac is a smart option for travelers heading to India who want reliable internet without breaking the bank. It’s especially great for budget travelers who prefer straightforward, hassle-free plans with quick setup.
Managing your plan is simple thanks to their user-friendly app, with options ranging from just four days up to a full month. Setting everything up takes no time: after you purchase, you'll receive a QR code or activation details that you can input manually. Once installed, your eSIM is ready to go almost immediately.
Jetpac offers coverage in over 200 countries, including India, providing dependable 4G service in both urban centers and more remote regions. Many users praise the responsive customer service team, which replies quickly via live chat and email.
Plans start at just $1.00 for 1 GB of data over four days, with larger data packages available. However, it’s important to note that Jetpac does not support unlimited data plans for India. Jetpac also doesn’t support voice calls or SMS, so most communication will be through VoIP apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime.
Plan | Price | Duration |
1 GB | $1.00 | 4 days |
3 GB | $7.00 | 30 days |
5 GB | $12.00 | 30 days |
10 GB | $18.00 | 30 days |
15 GB | $35.00 | 30 days |
20 GB | $30.00 | 30 days |
30 GB | $40.00 | 30 days |
40 GB | $55.00 | 30 days |
Pros:
Cons:
Rating: 4.3/5 (TrustPilot)
Pricing: Starts at $4.50 for 1 GB over a 7-day period
Coverage: More than 200 countries and regions
Calls/SMS: No
Yesim is a trusted eSIM provider that’s quickly becoming a favorite among travelers heading to India. Known for its straightforward and budget-friendly approach, Yesim offers a variety of plans suitable for short visits or longer stays. These include both data packages and unlimited plans for those who need maximum connectivity.
Getting started is simple: after purchasing your plan online, you activate it by scanning a QR code — no complicated steps involved.
Yesim works with a wide range of devices, making it a versatile choice whether you’re using an iPhone, Android phone, or tablet. Additionally, iOS users can enjoy free VPN access with their plans, providing extra security and privacy.
Yesim’s customer support team is quick to respond and ready to help with any questions or issues, so troubleshooting is hassle-free.
Plan | Price | Duration |
3 GB | $12.00 | 30 days |
5 GB | $16.80 | 30 days |
10 GB | $24.00 | 30 days |
20 GB | $39.60 | 30 days |
Unlimited | $8.40 | 1 day |
Unlimited | $36.00 | 7 days |
Unlimited | $52.80 | 15 days |
Unlimited | $66.00 | 30 days |
Pros:
Cons:
Rating: 4.4/5
Pricing: Pricing begins at $4.50 for 1 GB of data, valid for 7 days.
Coverage: More than 200 countries worldwide
Calls/SMS: No
With a global network of partners, Nomad provides a seamless and reliable experience across more than 200 countries, including India. Whether you're wandering through bustling cities, exploring scenic countryside, or relaxing by the coast, Nomad delivers fast, stable internet backed by top carriers, including LTE and 5G networks.
Getting started is simple — after purchasing your plan, you'll receive the eSIM profile. Just scan a QR code or manually enter the details using their user-friendly app. Once installed, it’s ready to use immediately, keeping you connected as soon as you land.
Nomad offers flexible plans, starting at just $4.50 for 1 GB of data over a week. The app helps you monitor your data usage and recharge effortlessly, so staying connected remains stress-free.
Keep in mind that Nomad doesn’t support traditional calls or SMS directly. However, it works perfectly with VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, allowing you to stay in touch.
Plan | Price | Duration |
1 GB | $4.50 | 7 days |
3 GB | $9.50 | 30 days |
5 GB | $13.00 | 30 days |
10 GB | $24.00 | 30 days |
20 GB | $39.00 | 30 days |
Pros:
Cons:
This table provides a quick overview of what each provider offers — covering data plans, prices, coverage, and key features. It makes it much easier to find the perfect eSIM for your trip to India.
Provider | Data Plans Available | Pricing | Calls/SMS | Duration Options | Coverage |
Holafly | Unlimited data | Starts at $6.90/day | No | Flexible (1 day to several weeks) | Over 200 countries, extensive coverage in India |
Saily | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, unlimited | Starts at $3.99 (1 GB, 7 days), up to $49.99 (unlimited, 15 days) | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Over 200 countries worldwide |
Airalo | 1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, unlimited | Starts at $4.50 (1 GB, 7 days) | Yes (select plans) | 7, 15, 30 days | 200+ countries and regions |
Jetpac | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 15 GB, 20 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB, unlimited | Starts at $1.00 (4 days, 1 GB), up to $47.99 (unlimited, 15 days) | No | 4, 7, 15, 30 days | Available in over 200 countries, including India |
Yesim | 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, unlimited | Starts at $4.50 (7 days, 1 GB), up to $66.00 (30 days, unlimited) | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Over 200 countries and regions |
Nomad | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, unlimited | Starts at $4.50 (7 days, 1 GB) | No | 7 days, 30 days | Supports 5G, 4G, LTE across more than 200 countries |
To ensure you have a seamless connectivity experience during your travels in India, we considered several important factors:
Using an eSIM in India offers numerous advantages that can truly enhance your travel experience. With an eSIM, you can enjoy instant connectivity right upon arrival, eliminating the need to wait for Wi-Fi or search for local shops to buy a physical SIM card.
Managing your plan digitally means you don’t have to worry about losing or damaging a physical SIM, and you can easily switch between multiple profiles on a single device — perfect for keeping your work and personal numbers separate.
The consistency and reliability of an eSIM ensure your navigation, social media, and communication stay uninterrupted wherever you are across the country. Plus, with flexible data plans tailored to your trip’s duration and needs, you can avoid the high costs of roaming, making your journey smoother and more affordable.
Checking if your device is eSIM compatible is simple, and just a few quick steps can tell you if you’re good to go. Here’s how to find out:
For iPhone:
For Android:
Getting your eSIM is a simple process, and it's best to set it up before you travel. You can purchase it directly from the provider’s website or through their mobile app, which is usually simple to navigate.
Most providers let you create an account and pick a plan that suits the length of your stay, whether you’re here for a few days or planning a longer visit.
Once you've bought your plan, activating the eSIM is quick and hassle-free:
Picking the right eSIM can really elevate your travel experience in India. It helps you stay connected effortlessly while you explore bustling cities, scenic landscapes, or relax by the coast. With several providers to choose from, each has its own strengths suited to different travel styles.
Based on thorough research and user reviews, we recommend Holafly as the best eSIM for India in 2025. Its unlimited data plans, easy activation, and dependable customer support make it a top choice for staying connected without any hassle during your Indian adventure.
Yes, tourists can purchase eSIMs in India. Many eSIM providers offer plans specifically tailored for travelers, allowing you to buy and activate your eSIM online before you even arrive. This ensures you have seamless connectivity as soon as you land.
The best eSIM for India depends on your specific needs, such as data usage and length of stay. However, Holafly comes highly recommended for its unlimited data plans, easy activation process, and excellent customer service.
To activate an eSIM before arriving in India, simply purchase a plan from your chosen provider online. Most providers will allow you to activate your eSIM immediately after purchase. This is usually done by scanning a QR code or entering details provided by the provider.
Once activated, ensure that data and roaming are enabled on your device settings for seamless connectivity when you reach India.