Buy SIM Card in New Delhi for Travelers 2024: Guide from Locals

Jessica Taylor

|

Latest update: May 2024

Traveling to New Delhi, India, one of the most essential tasks for any traveler is to buy SIM card in New Delhi to stay connected during your trip.

This detailed guide is here to give you great tips and practical advice when you buy SIM card in New Delhi. It’ll make sure you breeze through the process without any hassle during your stay.

I. Why Buy SIM card in New Delhi?

When you buy SIM card in New Delhi, you get many benefits compared to other connectivity options. With an India local SIM:

• You’ve got reliable and speedy internet wherever you go in New Delhi. So, maps, chats, and staying connected are easy.
• You save some cash since local plans are often cheaper than crazy international roaming fees or renting Wi-Fi gadgets.
• It’s super handy for making calls, texting, and staying connected with people back home.
• You get to pick a plan that fits your needs, whether you’re a big data user or need a mix of talk, text, and data.

Choosing a New Delhi SIM card over free public Wi-Fi or your home country’s roaming is a smoother and budget-friendly way to stay connected on your trip.

II. Which mobile internet carrier is the best in New Delhi?

New Delhi is served by several major mobile network operators, as well as some smaller virtual network operators (MVNOs). The main network providers in the city are:

► Recommendation: Based on the criteria above, Airtel and Jio appear to be the best options for travelers visiting New Delhi, offering extensive coverage, reliable high-speed internet, and competitive prepaid plans designed for tourists’ needs.

III. Best New Delhi SIM Card Plans and Price

Here is an overview of the best SIM card plans and prices from the major telecom providers in New Delhi.

Airtel SIM Card Plans:

• ₹249 (~ $3) plan: 1.5 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 28-day validity
• ₹399 (~ $5) plan: 2 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 56-day validity
• ₹699 (~ $9) plan: 3 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 84-day validity

Jio SIM Card Plans:

• ₹199 (~ $2.50) plan: 2 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 28-day validity
• ₹399 (~ $5) plan: 2.5 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 56-day validity
• ₹599 (~ $7.50) plan: 3 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 84-day validity

Vi (Vodafone Idea) SIM Card Plans:

• ₹299 (~ $3.75) plan: 2 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 28-day validity
• ₹449 (~ $5.50) plan: 2.5 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 56-day validity
• ₹699 (~ $9) plan: 3 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 84-day validity

BSNL SIM Card Plans:

• ₹199 (~ $2.50) plan: 2 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 28-day validity
• ₹349 (~ $4.25) plan: 2.5 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 56-day validity
• ₹599 (~ $7.50) plan: 3 GB/day data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 84-day validity

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card in New Delhi?

The best places to buy SIM card in New Delhi are at the airport and in the city center.

1. Buy a SIM card at New Delhi airport 

The city’s major airports, such as Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), offer several options for travelers to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. To pick up one, keep in mind these things:

• Prepare: Passport, Visa, and passport-sized photo
• Pros: Easy SIM card purchase upon arrival, multiple telecom options
• Cons: Airport SIM cards are pricier than elsewhere and slower activation process

Here is the list of SIM card stores at New Delhi Airport:

• Terminal 1 (Domestic Flights):
  • Airtel Store – Arrival Hall
  • Jio Store – Departure Hall
• Terminal 2 (International Flights):
  • Vi (Vodafone Idea) Store – Arrival Hall
  • BSNL Store – Departure Hall
• Terminal 3 (International Flights):
  • Airtel Store – Arrival Hall
  • Jio Store – Departure Hall

Big telecom companies such as Airtel, Jio, Vi, and BSNL have their stores at various spots in New Delhi airport. Swing by after you land to grab a SIM card. It usually takes around 15-30 minutes for activation and paperwork. Prices and plans are pretty much like what you’d find elsewhere, just a tad pricier at the airport.

2. Buy a SIM card in New Delhi center

While you can buy a SIM card in New Delhi at the airport, it is a convenient option, there are also several places to purchase a local SIM card within the city center. Here are the pros and cons of this method:

Pros:

• Lower prices than airport SIM card stores
• Increased plan options and flexibility
• Compare offerings from various network providers

Cons:

• Time-consuming to find a store and make a purchase
• More paperwork and documentation may be needed
• Risk of language barriers with store staff

The main places to buy SIM cards in New Delhi’s city center include:

• Official Mobile Carrier Stores: Authorized outlets like Airtel, Jio, Vi, and BSNL offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid SIM card plans.
• Convenience Stores: Shops such as Big Bazaar, More, and local retailers may sell SIM cards, usually at a slightly higher price.
• Online Platforms: Purchase SIM cards online from network providers’ websites or platforms like Amazon.

► Recommendation: For a super smooth experience, we suggest you buy SIM card in New Delhi at the airport when you arrive or get an eSIM online before you leave. eSIM providers make it easy peasy – activate the service from afar without stepping into a store. Just check if your phone is eSIM-friendly.

V. India eSIM card for New Delhi – Alternative to SIM Card for Travelers

If your device supports eSIM, using one can be a handy option instead of a physical SIM card when you buy SIM in New Delhi. Some best advantages of eSIM are:

• Quick activation as soon as you arrive, no need to hit up a store
• Easily swap between different eSIM profiles on your device

There are 2 common ways to purchase an eSIM for your trip to New Delhi:

1. Network Carrier eSIM Services

• Airtel, Jio, and Vi (Vodafone Idea) offer eSIM services for tourists visiting India.
• You can typically purchase these eSIMs directly from the carrier’s website, but you may still need to provide identification documents.

2. Third-Party eSIM Providers

Companies like Gigago offer eSIM packages tailored for India, including New Delhi.

• Gigago has various data plans, starting at 3GB for 30 days at $14.50 . 
• The cool thing about Gigago’s India eSIM plans is they range from $14.50 – $29.90 , so there’s an option for everyone, no matter how much data you need or how long you’ll be in India.

The convenience and flexibility of eSIM make it a great alternative to a traditional SIM card when buying a SIM card in New Delhi.

VI. What to Prepare to buy SIM card in New Delhi?

When buying a SIM card in New Delhi, make sure to have these ready:

• Valid Passport: Required for identity verification.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Recent photos may be needed.
• Cash or Card: Payment options vary.
• Unlocked Smartphone: The device should be unlocked.
• India Visa: Check visa requirements.
• Local Address: Provide a local address during registration.

VII. Extra Tips when buying SIM card in New Delhi

Remember these tips while anywhere in India, not only in New Delhi:

• Compare Plans: Check data, voice, and SMS plans from different providers to find one that fits your needs and budget.
• Activate the SIM Immediately: Activate the SIM right away to start using the service.
• Verify the SIM is Working: Test the SIM by making calls, sending messages, and checking internet speed.
• Keep a Backup SIM: Carry a backup SIM from another provider in case of issues.
• Beware of Scams: Watch out for unauthorized sellers or suspiciously cheap offers.
• Download Useful Apps: Get apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and local ride-hailing services.
• Ask About Roaming: Inquire about roaming capabilities and costs if traveling within India.

VIII. FAQs 

IX. Conclusion

When you buy SIM card in New Delhi, everything in your travel will be more convenient than ever. This guide helps you smoothly purchase one, stay connected, and enjoy your time in the city. Whether you choose a traditional SIM card or an eSIM, the tips here will help you decide easily for a great digital experience.