India – derived from the River Indus, is the second-most populated country in the world. By landmass, it is the 7th-largest country in the world.
India does not need an introduction – everyone knows something about this country.
Known for being the largest democracy in the world, having the most tigers in a country worldwide, a big fan of cricket, and home to plenty of official languages.
And let's not forget about the attractions this country has to offer. Of course, the Taj Mahal. The famous Ranthambore, and the Amber Palace.
You could visit the busy cities (sometimes a bit too busy) or the stunning nature in the countryside.
One thing an Indian friend of mine said, which I found funny, is that no matter where you are, even in the middle of the desert, there will always be people around. There is no reason to feel lonely in India ;)
Normally, I made a quick remark about international roaming being expensive in general.
However, India is home to one of the lowest, if not the lowest, mobile data rates in the world. And the Indian operators have another gift for you.
You can get a free Indian SIM card from Jio, Airtel & VI (Vodafone Idea) in their stores. However, you will be required to top-up or buy a plan when obtaining your complimentary SIM card (could be up to 300 INR – 3.60 USD). 1 GB of data will cost you at least 11 INR (0.15 USD).
Free SIM cards AND spending less than a quarter on 1 GB of data – quite unheard of!
But before you go out and try to get your free Indian SIM card, there are many things to be aware of when trying to get SIM cards in India – it can be time-consuming, especially for tourists and travelers.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in India. Let's go.
Original publication: 31st of December 2019. Last updated: 1st of December 2023.
Table of Contents
What is the Best SIM Card in India?
If you want to buy the best SIM card in India, I recommend going with Jio. It is, overall, the best option. VI may have faster average download speeds, but mobile data speeds are already slow in India, making the difference marginal. Jio also offers the most variety in plans.
India has four mobile operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Jio
- Airtel India
- VI (Vodafone Idea)
- BSNL (+MTNL)
In this guide, I will stick to the mobile operators and the most popular MVNOs, all in bold above, to limit the length of this guide (but also not to overwhelm you with all the options available).
But if you are interested in getting a SIM card from one of the unbolded MVNOs, you would have to do the research yourself for the time being. I stopped actively testing and reviewing MVNOs to spend time reviewing travel eSIMs instead, like the ones for India.
Anyone living in or visiting India can buy an Indian SIM card with no real restrictions, but you do have to comply with India's SIM card registration regulations.
Regarding the registration requirements, you must show your passport at the point of sale.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Where Can You Buy an Indian SIM Card (+Prices)?
You can expect to pay the following for Indian SIM cards:
- Jio: free, but (select) plan purchase/recharge required
- Airtel India: free, but (select) plan purchase/recharge required
- VI (Vodafone Idea): free, but (select) plan purchase/recharge required
Be aware that SIM cards sold at airports can be more expensive than the prices mentioned earlier.
Use the Wise Currency Converter tool (free) for up-to-date INR (Indian Rupee) to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) exchange rates.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between INR and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 INR = 0.10 USD
- 10 INR = 0.10 USD
- 100 INR = 1.20 USD
- 1000 INR = 12 USD
- 10 000 INR = 120.10 USD
For any other currency, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
(Travel) eSIMs for India
The use of (travel) eSIMs has exploded in recent years.
Not only do more phones have eSIM capability (some US-sold iPhones are eSIM-only), but the number of providers adopting technology has proliferated as well.
This includes local mobile operators offering eSIM and platforms selling eSIMs (travel eSIMs).
If you want a local Indian eSIM, you are out of luck because the mobile operators do not sell them (to prepaid customers
But remember that you have to comply with India's SIM card registration regulations, even when you get an Indian eSIM.
If you do not wish to deal with registration for whatever reason, like privacy, consider getting a travel eSIM for India.
Many eSIM providers have eSIMs for India only, eSIMs for multiple Asian destinations & even global eSIMs, which I discuss in my India eSIM buying guide.
Here is a quick introduction to your India travel eSIM options:
- Airalo: Indicomm (India only), Asialink (14 countries in Asia) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS)
- Alosim: India
- Holafly: India – all variants include unlimited data
- Nomad: India, APAC (15 or 20 countries, depending on the variant) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant)
- SimOptions: Asia (32 countries)
And I know you love discounts, so use one of these codes when getting a travel eSIM:
- Airalo: DEC15 for 15% off (if you have never bought an Airalo eSIM before). Otherwise, DEC10 for 10% off (for existing users) – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code)
- Alosim: PTW for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Holafly: PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Nomad: ADU123 for 3 USD off (on your first-ever Nomad order only)
If you want to know about all the prices, data options & covered countries (for the regional and global eSIMs), check out my India eSIM buying guide.
Indian Prepaid SIM Cards Explored
Below, I will guide you through Jio, Airtel India & VI (Vodafone Idea), and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge/top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
Let's see what India can offer us in terms of SIM cards.
Jio
Reliance Jio Infocomm, just Jio, is the largest mobile operator in India. When it entered the market in late 2015 as a 4G/LTE-only mobile operator, its goal was to disrupt the Indian telecom market.
With an aggressive pricing strategy, which led to a price war, significant investments in infrastructure, leading it to be the operator with the most towers, and getting rid of Indian national roaming, it quickly became the most prominent player. So much so that Vodafone India and Idea had to merge into one company to stay competitive.
You could say that Jio's goal to disrupt the Indian telecom market succeeded. It is now the third-largest mobile operator in the world (420+ million subscribers).
Jio uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A
- 3G: N/A
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 850 MHz (Band 5), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
This is what you will learn about Jio:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Jio SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Jio
Jio has the best coverage in India.
Its 4G availability and 4G coverage experience are the highest of all the Indian mobile operators.
Below is Jio's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Jio
You can get a Jio SIM card for free in Jio stores. However, you will be required to purchase a plan or recharge to get your free SIM card.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
You may want to get a travel eSIM for India, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Jio (in some cases).
Especially when getting an eSIM covering popular Asian destinations if you do not stay in just India or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.
My India eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
Here is a quick introduction to them:
- Airalo: Indicomm (India only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: India – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: India – these eSIMs have unlimited data – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: India, APAC (up to 20 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my India eSIM buying guide.
But let's continue with Jio for now.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Jio
Jio top-up vouchers are sold in Jio stores and other stores, including kiosks, phone stores, and grocery stores.
To top up your Jio SIM card, dial *305*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *305*123456#. The same can be done as *368#.
You can tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *333# to check your Jio balance.
You can also use the MyJio to refill and check your balance (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Jio
Jio has sixteen data-featured prepaid plans:
- JioPhone (combo)
- 1 GB/Day Packs (combo)
- Value Pack (data)
- 1.5 GB/Day Packs (combo)
- 3 GB/Day Packs (combo)
- 2 GB/Day Packs (combo)
- JioSaavn Pro Plans (combo)
- Jio Freedom Plans (combo)
- No Daily Limit (combo)
- 2.5/Day (combo)
- Annual Plans (combo)
- Data Packs
- JioLink (data)
- Data Booster (add-on)
- JioPhone Data ADD ON
- 5G Upgrade (add-on)
All Jio plans can be activated on the MyJio app or online.
Moreover, all plans allow you to continue using data after exhausting your data allowance. However, your speeds will be throttled to 64 Kbps.
I will list all the prices in INR (Indian Rupee).
To convert INR to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
JioPhone – Jio
The JioPhone plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following JioPhone plans are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75 INR | 0.1 GB/day + 200 MB (2.5 GB) | Unlimited | 50 SMS | 23 days |
| 91 INR | 0.1 GB/day + 200 MB (3 GB) | Unlimited | 50 SMS | 28 days |
| 125 INR | 0.5 GB/day (11.5 GB) | 300 SMS | 23 days | |
| 152 INR | 0.5 GB/day (14 GB) | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 28 days |
| 186 INR | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 223 INR | 2 GB/day (56 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 895 INR | 2 GB/day (24 GB) | Unlimited | 50 SMS/28 days (15 000 SMS) | 336 days (28 days * 12 cycles) |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
1 GB/Day Pack Plans – Jio
The 1 GB/day Pack plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following 1 GB/day Packs are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 149 INR | 1 GB/day (24 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2000 SMS) | 20 days |
| 179 INR | 1 GB/day (24 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 24 days |
| 209 INR | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
Value Pack Plans – Jio
The Value Pack plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Value Pack are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 155 INR | 2 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 28 days |
| 395 INR | 6 GB | Unlimited | 1000 SMS | 84 days |
| 1559 INR | 24 GB | Unlimited | 3600 SMS | 336 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
1.5 GB/Day Packs Plans – Jio
The 1.5 GB/day Packs plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following 1.5 GB/day Packs are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 199 INR | 1.5 GB/day (34.5 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2300 SMS) | 23 days |
| 239 INR | 1.5 GB/day (42 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 259 INR | 1.5 GB/day (45 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 269 INR | 1.5 GB/day (42 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 479 INR | 1.5 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 529 INR | 1.5 GB/day (84 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 666 INR | 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 739 INR | 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 2545 INR | 1.5 GB/day (504 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (33 600 SMS) | 336 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
2 +Jio Saavn Pro subscription
3 GB/Day Packs Plans – Jio
The 3 GB/day Packs plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following 3 GB/day Packs are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 219 INR | 3 GB/day (42 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (1400 SMS) | 14 days |
| 399 INR | 3 GB/day (270 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (9000 SMS) | 90 days |
| 999 INR | 3 GB/day (252 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
2 GB/Day Packs Plans – Jio
The 2 GB/day Packs plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following 2 GB/day Packs are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 249 INR | 2 GB/day (46 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2300 SMS) | 23 days |
| 299 INR | 2 GB/day (56 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 533 INR | 2 GB/day (112 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 589 INR | 2 GB/day (112 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 719 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 789 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
2 +Jio Saavn Pro subscription
JioSaavn Pro Plans – Jio
The JioSaavn Pro Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following JioSaavn Pro Plans are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 269 INR | 1.5 GB/day (42 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 529 INR | 1.5 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 589 INR | 2 GB/day (56 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 739 INR | 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 789 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud, JioTV & JioSaavn Pro subscriptions
Jio Freedom Plans – Jio
The Jio Freedom Plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS (max. 100 SMS/day).
The following Jio Freedom Plans are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 296 INR | 25 GB | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
No Daily Limit Plans – Jio
The No Daily Limit plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) minutes & SMS.
The following No Daily Limit are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 296 INR | 25 GB | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
2.5 GB/day – Jio
The 2.5 GB/day plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following 2.5 GB/day plans are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 349 INR | 2.5 GB/day (75 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 2999 INR | 2.5 GB/day (912.5 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
Annual Plans – Jio
The Annual Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) minutes & SMS.
The following Annual Plans are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2545 INR | 1.5 GB/day (504 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (33 600 SMS) | 336 days |
| 2999 INR | 2.5 GB/day (912 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
JioLink – Jio
The JioLink plans are data-only bundles (without 5G NR access). These plans can last from around one month to half a year.
The following JioLink plans are available:
| Price | Plan | Data 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 699 INR | Monthly | 5 GB/day + 16 GB (156 GB) | 28 days |
| 2099 INR | Quarterly | 5 GB/day + 48 GB (538 GB) | 84 + 14 days |
| 4199 INR | Half yearly | 5 GB/day + 96 GB (1076 GB) | 168 + 28 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
Data Booster – Jio
The Data Booster plans are, as the name implies, data booster/add-ons (without 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following Data Booster plans are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 15 INR | 1 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 19 INR | 1.5 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 25 INR | 2 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 29 INR | 2.5 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 61 INR | 6 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 121 INR | 12 GB | based on the registered plan |
| 222 INR | 50 GB | based on the registered plan |
JioPhone Data Add-ONs – Jio
The JioPhone Data Add-ONs are, as the name implies, data add-ons (without 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following JioPhone Data Add-ONs are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 26 INR | 2 GB | 28 days |
| 62 INR | 6 GB | 28 days |
| 86 INR | 0.5 GB/day (14 GB) | 28 days |
| 122 INR | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | 28 days |
| 182 INR | 2 GB/day (56 GB) | 28 days |
5G Upgrade – Jio
The 5G Upgrade plan is a data add-on (obviously, with 5G NR access). It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.
The following 5G Upgrade plan is available:
| Price | Data 1, 2 | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 61 INR | 6 GB | based on the registered plan |
1 applicable on plans Rs119, Rs149, Rs179, Rs199 & Rs209
2 unlimited 5G data applicable only in cities where Jio True 5G has been launched and user has been invited for Jio Welcome Offer
Data Packs – Jio
The Data Packs are data add-ons (without 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following Data Packs are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 181 IN | 30 GB | 30 days |
| 241 INR | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 301 INR | 50 GB | 30 days |
| 444 INR | 100 GB | 60 days |
| 555 INR | 55 GB 1 | 55 days |
| 667 INR | 150 GB | 90 days |
| 2878 INR | 2 GB/day (730 GB) 1 | 365 days |
1 +JioCinema, JioCloud & JioTV subscriptions
APN/Internet Settings – Jio
- Name: JioNet
- APN: JioNet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Airtel India
Bharti Airtel, just Airtel, is India's second-largest mobile operator. It has been a player in the Indian telecom market for more than 25 years.
Its first international venture was in Sri Lanka (Airtel Lanka).
Now, Airtel is active in 19 countries in South Asia, Africa, Jersey & Guernsey in Europe.
With all its subsidiaries, Bharti Airtel is the second-largest mobile operator in the world (440+ million subscribers).
Airtel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: Shut down in 2020 for 4G/LTE refarming
- 4G/LTE: 900 Mhz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
This is what you will learn about Airtel:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Airtel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Airtel India
Airtel has extensive coverage throughout India.
Its 4G availability is high, so is its 4G coverage experience. Airtel is the best mobile operator for video calls, voice calls through apps (VoIP), and online gaming.
Below is Airtel's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Airtel India
You can get an Airtel SIM card for free in Airtel stores. However, you will be required to purchase a plan or recharge to get your free SIM card.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
You should consider getting a travel eSIM for India because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Airtel.
Especially if you get an Asia-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.
I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for India in my India eSIM buying guide, which are:
- Airalo: Indicomm (India only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: India – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: India – unlimited data eSIMs – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: India, APAC (up to 20 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
As I said, check out my India eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Airtel for now.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Airtel India
Airtel top-up vouchers are sold in Airtel stores and other stores, including kiosks, phone stores, and grocery stores.
To top up your Airtel SIM card, dial *121*3# or *121# and follow the instructions.
You can tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *121*1# to check your Airtel balance.
You can also use the Airtel Thanks app to refill and check your balance (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Airtel India
Airtel has two data-featured prepaid plans: Truly Unlimited (combo) & Data (data-only).
All Airtel plans can be activated on the Airtel Thanks app or online.
I will list all the prices in INR (Indian Rupee).
To convert INR to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Truly Unlimited Plans – Airtel India
The Truly Unlimited plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) minutes & SMS.
The majority of plans also give you access to Amazon Prime Video (30-day trial), Apollo 24|7 Circle (for 3 months), Airtel Xstream Premium, Hellotunes, Wynk Music, Shaw Academy (1 year).
The following Truly Unlimited are available:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 155 INR | 1 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 24 days |
| 179 INR | 2 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 28 days |
| 199 INR | 3 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 30 days |
| 209 INR | 1 GB/day (21 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2100 SMS) | 21 days |
| 239 INR | 1 GB/day (24 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2400 SMS) | 24 days |
| 265 INR | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 289 INR | 4 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 35 days |
| 296 INR | 25 GB | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 299 INR | 1.5 GB/day | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 319 INR | 2 GB/day (62 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3100 SMS) | 31 days |
| 359 INR | 2 GB/day (62 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3100 SMS) | 31 days |
| 399 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 455 INR | 6 GB | Unlimited | 900 SMS | 84 days |
| 479 INR | 1.5 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 489 INR | 50 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 30 days |
| 499 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 509 INR | 60 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 1 month |
| 519 INR | 1.5 GB/day (90 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (6000 SMS) | 60 days |
| 549 INR | 2 GB/day (112 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 666 INR | 1.5 GB/day (115.5 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (7700 SMS) | 77 days |
| 699 INR | 3 GB/day (168 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 719 INR | 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 779 INR | 1.5 GB/day (135 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (9000 SMS) | 90 days |
| 839 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 999 INR | 2.5 GB/day (210 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 1799 INR | 24 GB | Unlimited | 3600 SMS | 365 days |
| 2999 INR | 2 GB/day (730 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
| 3359 INR | 2.5 GB/day (912.5 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
Data Plans- Airtel India
The Data plans are, as the name implies, data-only bundles (without 5G NR access).
The following Data are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 19 INR | 1 GB | 1 day |
| 29 INR | 2 GB | 1 day |
| 49 INR | 6 GB | 1 day |
| 58 INR | 3 GB | N/A |
| 65 INR | 4 GB | N/A |
| 98 INR | 5 GB | N/A |
| 99 INR | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 118 INR | 12 GB | N/A |
| 148 INR | 15 GB 1 | N/A |
| 149 INR | 1 GB 1 | N/A |
| 181 INR | 1 GB/day (30 GB) | 30 days |
| 301 INR | 50 GB | N/A |
1 access to Airtel Xstream Play for 28 days
APN/Internet Settings – Airtel India
- Name: Airtel Internet
- APN: airtelgprs.com
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
VI (Vodafone Idea)
Vodafone Idea, known as VI, is the third-largest mobile operator in India.
It formed as a merger between Vodafone India and Idea Cellular.
The agreement of the merger was agreed back in 2018.
However, it took until Q3 2020 before the two companies became one and offered their services under one brand.
VI is the 7th largest mobile operator in the world (280+ million subscribers).
VI has the fastest mobile download and upload speed in the country.
According to Opensignal, the average mobile download speed is 11.9 Mbps, and the average mobile upload speed is 4.5 Mbps.
Speedtest reports an even higher mobile download speed of 15 Mbps.
VI uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 Mhz
- 3G: Being shut down for 4G/LTE refarming
- 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8) & 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 Mhz (Band 1), 2300 Mhz (Band 40) & 2500 MHz (Band 41)
This is what you will learn about VI:
* Coverage
* How to Get a VI SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
VI has extensive coverage throughout India.
Vi does have the worst 4G availability and 4G coverage experience of the big three players.
Below is VI's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
You can get a VI SIM card for free in VI stores. However, you will be required to purchase a plan or recharge to get your free SIM card.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
You can consider getting a travel eSIM for India, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from VI.
Especially if you get an Asia eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported Asian countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).
In my India eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
But I will introduce them here quickly:
- Airalo: Indicomm (India only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: India – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: India – include unlimited data – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: India, APAC (15 or 20 countries, depending on the variant) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
Once again, check out my India eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.
For now, I will continue with VI.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
VI top-up vouchers are sold in VI stores and other stores, including kiosks, phone stores, and grocery stores.
To top up your VI SIM card, dial *199*5# or *199# and follow the instructions.
You can tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *111# or *199*2# to check your VI balance.
You can also use the VI to refill and check your balance (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
VI has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- Unlimited (combo)
- Combo/Validity (combo)
- Disney+ Hotstar VIP (combo)
- Data
All VI plans can be activated on the VI app or online.
I will list all the prices in INR (Indian Rupee).
To convert INR to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plans you are interested in.
Unlimited Plans – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
The Unlimited plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) minutes & SMS.
The majority of plans also give you access to VI mobies and TV. Many also allow you to roll over unused workday data (Monday-Friday) to the weekend (Saturday & Sunday).
The following Unlimited are available:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98 INR | 200 MB | Unlimited | N/A | 14 days |
| 129 INR | 200 MB | Unlimited | N/A | 18 days |
| 155 INR | 1 GB | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 24 days |
| 179 INR | 2 GB 1 | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 28 days |
| 195 INR | 3 GB 1 | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 1 month |
| 199 INR | 1 GB/day (18 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (1800 SMS) | 18 days |
| 209 INR | 4 GB 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 219 INR | 1 GB/day (21 GB) 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2100 SMS) | 21 days |
| 239 INR | 1 GB/day (24 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2400 SMS) | 24 days |
| 249 INR | 1.5 GB/day (31.5 GB) 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2100 SMS) | 21 days |
| 269 INR | 1 GB/day (28 GB) 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 296 INR | 25 GB 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 299 INR | 1.5 GB/day (42 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 319 INR | 2 GB/day (62 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3100 SMS) | 31 days |
| 329 INR | 4 GB 1 | Unlimited | 600 SMS | 56 days |
| 359 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 368 INR | 2 GB/day (60 GB) 2, 3 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 369 INR | 2 GB/day (60 GB) 2, 4 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (3000 SMS) | 30 days |
| 399 INR | 2.5 GB/day (70 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 409 INR | 3.5 GB/day (98 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 459 INR | 6 GB 1 | Unlimited | 1000 SMS | 84 days |
| 475 INR | 4 GB/day (112 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 479 INR | 1.5 GB/day (84 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 499 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 537 INR | 50 GB 1 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (6000 SMS) | 60 days |
| 539 INR | 2 GB/day (112 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day ( | 56 days |
| 599 INR | 1.5 GB/day (105 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (7000 SMS) | 70 days |
| 601 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) 2, 5 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 666 INR | 1.5 GB/day (115.5 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (7700 SMS) | 77 days |
| 699 INR | 3 GB/day (168 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (5600 SMS) | 56 days |
| 719 INR | 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 839 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 901 INR | 3 GB/day (210 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (7000 SMS) | 70 days |
| 902 INR | 2 GB/day (180 GB) 2, 3 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (9000 SMS) | 90 days |
| 903 INR | 2 GB/day (180 GB) 2, 4 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (9000 SMS) | 90 days |
| 949 INR | 12 GB 1 | Unlimited | 1200 SMS | 180 days |
| 1066 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 1449 INR | 1.5 GB/day (270 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (18 000 SMS) | 180 days |
| 1799 INR | 24 GB ! | Unlimited | 3600 SMS | 365 days |
| 1999 INR | 1.5 GB/day (375 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (25 000 SMS) | 250 days |
| 2899 INR | 1.5 GB/day (547.50 GB) 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
| 2999 INR | 850 GB 2 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
| 3099 INR | 2 GB/day (730 GB) 2, 5 | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
1 +Vi movies and TV access
2 +Binge All Night (surf, stream, share all you want from 00:00 – 06:00) & Vi movies and TV data (Vi Movies & TV VIP access-Full access to premium movies, originals, live TV, news & more)
3 +Sun NXT subscription
4 +SonyLiv subscription
5 +Disney+ Hotstar subscription
Combo/Validity Plans – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
The Combo/Validity plans are, as the name implies, combo bundles with credit & data (without 5G NR access).
The following Combo/Validity are available:
| Price | Credit | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 99 INR | 99 INR | 200 MB | 15 days |
| 198 INR | 198 INR | 500 MB | 30 days |
| 204 INR | 204 INR | 500 MB | 1 month |
Disney+ Hotstar VIP Plans – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
The Disney+ Hotstar VIP plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) minutes & SMS. You also get 3-month access to Disney+ Hotstar in one plan.
Do note that if you are a tourist and get one of these plans, you will also get access to Disney+ Hotstar. However, you will not be able to use your subscription back home (perhaps you can if using a VPN and setting the location to India may work, but that is not something I can confirm yet).
The following Disney+ Hotstar VIP are available:
| Price | Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 151 INR | 8 GB 2 | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 399 INR | 2.5 GB/day (70 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 499 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 601 INR | 3 GB/day (84 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (2800 SMS) | 28 days |
| 901 INR | 3 GB/day (210 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (7000 SMS) | 70 days |
| 1066 INR | 2 GB/day (168 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (8400 SMS) | 84 days |
| 3099 INR | 2 GB/day (730 GB) | Unlimited | 100 SMS/day (36 500 SMS) | 365 days |
1 +Binge All Night (Surf, stream, share all you want from 12 midnight to 6am without pack deduction, at no extra cost!), Vi movies and TV (Vi Movies & TV VIP access-Full access to premium movies, originals, live TV, news & more) & Hotstar Subscription (Get 3 Months access to Disney+ Hotstar Mobile & enjoy online streaming of exclusive TV shows, serials, live sports, dubbed Hollywood movies)
2 +3 months of Disney + Hotstar subscription only
Data – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
The Data plans are, as the name implies, data-only bundles (without 5G NR access).
The following Data are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 17 INR | Unlimited 1 | 1 day |
| 19 INR | 1 GB | 24 hours |
| 24 INR | Unlimited | 1 hour |
| 25 INR | 1.1 GB | 1 day |
| 29 INR | 2 GB | 2 days |
| 39 INR | 3 GB | 7 days |
| 49 INR | 6 GB | 24 hours |
| 57 INR | Unlimited 1 | 7 days |
| 58 INR | 3 GB | 28 days |
| 75 INR | 6 GB | 7 days |
| 82 INR | 4 GB 2 | 14 days |
| 108 INR | 6 GB 3 | 15 days |
| 118 INR | 12 GB | 28 days |
| 151 INR | 8 GB 4 | 30 days |
| 181 INR | 1 GB/day (30 GB) | 30 days |
| 298 INR | 50 GB 5 | 28 days |
| 418 INR | 100 GB 5 | 56 days |
| 698 INR | 10 GB 2 | 28 days |
| 999 INR | 50 GB | 365 days |
1 unlimited night data between 00:00 – 06:00
2 28 days of SonyLIV mobile
3 3 months of ad free music
4 3 months of Disney+ & Hotstar VIP
5 with Vi movies and TV (Vi Movies & TV classic access to premium movies, originals, live TV, news & more)
APN/Internet Settings – VI (Vodafone Idea India)
- Name: VI
- APN: www
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in India
Getting a SIM card from Jio would do you well when considering an Indian SIM card.
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my SIM card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
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If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
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Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
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