In this blog post, we will explore the best SIM cards available for tourists in Sri Lanka, including both physical prepaid SIM cards and eSIM options. We will provide information on different mobile networks, available data packages, pricing details, and where you can purchase these SIM cards. Stay informed and connected during your trip to Sri Lanka.
In this article
As a tourist visiting Sri Lanka, you have several options for purchasing a SIM card or eSIM:
Many mobile operators in Sri Lanka allow you to order a prepaid SIM card online and have it delivered to your address prior to your trip. This ensures that you have a Sri Lanka SIM card ready to use as soon as you arrive.
Major airports in Sri Lanka, such as Bandaranaike International Airport, have kiosks or shops where you can buy a prepaid SIM card upon your arrival. This option is convenient if you prefer to get your SIM card immediately after landing.
If you prefer to wait until you are in the city, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card from various mobile operator stores, convenience stores, and supermarkets throughout Sri Lanka.
eSIMs can typically be purchased online through the mobile operator’s website or mobile app. Some providers may also offer eSIM sales at airport kiosks or stores. The advantage of an eSIM is that you can instantly activate it on your compatible device without the need to physically change the SIM card.
Note: When purchasing a SIM card or eSIM in Sri Lanka, remember to have your passport or another form of identification ready, as providers may require it for registration purposes.
1 USD = 302 LKR
There are 4 operators offering Sri Lanka for tourist to choose:
Budget Packs – Dialog Sri Lanka
The Budget Packs are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
| Price | Plan | Data | Nighttime Data 1 | 4G/LTE Data | On-Net Minutes | On-Net SMS | Validity |
| 120 LKR | 200 Min Pack | 200 MB | 200 MB | 100 MB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 7 days |
| 240 LKR | 400 Min Pack | N/A | N/A | N/A | 400 minutes | N/A | 30 days |
Daily Rental Packages – Dialog Sri Lanka
The Daily Rental Packages are data plans (without 5G NR access).
| Price (excl. tax) | Data | Nighttime Data 1 | 4G/LTE Data | Validity |
| 6 LKR | 40 MB | 40 MB | 20 MB | 1 day |
| 12 LKR | 90 MB | 90 MB | 45 MB | 1 day |
| 24 LKR | 200 MB | 200 MB | 100 MB | 1 day |
30 Day Pocket Pack – SLTMobitel (Sri Lanka Telecom)
The 30 Day Pocket Pack are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following 30 Day Pocket Pack are available:
| Price (incl. Tax) | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
| 166 LKR | 512 MB | 250 minutes | 250 SMS | 30 days |
Mobitel Max – SLTMobitel (Sri Lanka Telecom)
Mobitel Max plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Mobitel Max plans are available, which get automatically activated if you top-up 123 LKR or 295 LKR:
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | On-Net SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
| 159 LKR | 1024 GB | 250 minutes | 250 SMS | 7 days | Top up 123 LKR |
| 377 LKR | 1000 MB | 1000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days | Top up 295 LKR |
Day & Night Plans – Hutch Sri Lanka (+former Etisalat Sri Lanka)
The Day & Night Plans are data plans (without 5G NR access).
Dial the Activation Code to activate Day & Night Plans:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data 1 | Validity |
| 9 LKR | 40 MB | 45 MB | 2 days |
| 25 LKR | 140 MB | 100 MB | 4 days |
| 66 LKR | 360 MB | 150 MB | 7 days |
| 131 LKR | 770 MB | 550 MB | 14 days |
| 259 LKR | 1.7 GB | 1 GB | 30 days |
| 301 LKR | 3 GB | 2.5 GB | 30 days |
| 510 LKR | 6 GB | 5 GB | 45 days |
| 849 LKR | 7.7 GB | 7 GB | 45 days |
My Plan – Hutch Sri Lanka (+former Etisalat Sri Lanka)
My Plan is a customizable plan that allows you to set how much data and how many minutes and SMS you want.
The combinations are basically endless, making it impossible for me to list it all in an understandable overview.
Basic Packs (Freedom Packs) – Airtel Lanka
The Basic Packs, falling under the Freedom Packs category, are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Basic Packs are available:
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | On-Net SMS | Off-Net SMS | Validity |
| 99 LKR | 1 GB | N/A | 25 minutes | 1000 SMS | 50 SMS | 30 days |
| 133 LKR | 100 MB | Unlimited | 50 minutes | 1000 SMS | 50 SMS | 30 days |
Unlimited Data Plans – Airtel Lanka
The Unlimited Data Plans are unlimited data bundles (without 5G NR access) at restricted speeds (1 Mbps, 2 Mbps & 4 Mbps).
| Price | Data | Speeds | Validity |
| 1883 LKR | Unlimited Data Plans | 1 Mbps | 30 days |
| 3357 LKR | Unlimited Data Plans | 2 Mbps | 30 days |
| 6388 LKR | Unlimited Data Plans | 4 Mbps | 30 days |
Absolutely yes, you should get the Sri Lanka SIM Card due to several benefits below:
When it comes to staying connected while traveling in Sri Lanka, there are several options available to tourists, including local SIM cards, free WiFi, roaming with your current plan, or renting a pocket WiFi device. Here’s a comparison:
| Option | Costs | Coverage | Convenience |
| Local Sri Lanka SIM | Low cost calls/data. | Works anywhere in Sri Lanka. No hunting for WiFi. | Easily make calls/use maps/messaging anytime. |
| Free WiFi | No data costs. | Only works at locations that offer WiFi, like cafes. | Have to be in range of WiFi hotspots. |
| Roaming | May cost a lot extra per day in roaming fees. | Works, but roaming fees can add up quickly. | Still using your regular phone number and plan. |
| Pocket WiFi | Rental fees every few days. | Portable hotspot but limited to one device at a time. | Have to remember to charge it daily. |
As you can see, a local Sri Lanka SIM card offers the most cost-effective solution, providing flexible coverage throughout your travels without unexpected charges.
To purchase a prepaid SIM card in Sri Lanka, you will need to present a valid form of identification. This can be either your passport or, if you are a Sri Lankan resident, your National Identity Card.
When it comes to SIM cards in Sri Lanka, tourists have two main options: prepaid physical SIM cards and prepaid tourist eSIMs.
Prepaid Sri Lanka SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards are the traditional choice for tourists. They come in standard, micro, and nano sizes to fit various phone models. These SIM cards offer voice, text, and data packages that can be easily topped up as needed.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a mobile data plan directly on your compatible smartphone without the need for a physical SIM card. Some Sri Lanka mobile operators offer prepaid eSIM options specifically designed for tourists.
eSIMs present a convenient alternative to traditional physical SIM cards, offering numerous advantages for tourists visiting Sri Lanka:
To utilize an eSIM in Sri Lanka, you will require a compatible device that supports eSIM technology.
You can choose to buy Sri Lanka eSIM from eSIM provider like Gigago. With their eSIM plans, you will have:
For Sri Lanka, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $7.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Sri Lanka eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $7.90 – $16.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Sri Lanka, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
Once you have purchased your prepaid SIM card or eSIM for Sri Lanka, it is important to know how to set it up and use it effectively. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Insert the SIM Card
If you have purchased a physical prepaid SIM card, power off your device, remove the existing SIM card (if applicable), and insert the new Sri Lanka SIM card.
Step 2: Set up the SIM Card
Power on your device and follow the on-screen instructions to set up and activate the SIM card.
Step 3: Top up and Activate the Plan
Most prepaid SIM cards come with a small amount of credit preloaded. To activate your chosen data package and enjoy its benefits, top up your SIM card with the required amount.
Step 4: Manage and Monitor Usage
Once your prepaid SIM card is set up and activated, you can use it for voice calls, text messages, and mobile data. Monitor your usage to avoid unexpected charges or service interruptions due to running out of data or credit.
Step 1: Check Device Compatibility
Before purchasing an eSIM, ensure that your smartphone or device is compatible with eSIM technology. Most recent iPhone and Android models support eSIM, but verify with your device manufacturer or the mobile operator’s website.
Step 2: Purchase and Activate the eSIM
Purchase an eSIM plan from the mobile operator’s website or through a dedicated app. Follow the instructions provided to scan the QR code or enter the activation code to install and activate the eSIM on your device.
Step 3: Configure the eSIM
After activating the eSIM, configure it as your primary or secondary SIM, depending on your device and preferences. Refer to your device’s manual or the mobile operator’s instructions for guidance on setting up and managing the eSIM.
Step 4: Start Using the eSIM
Once the eSIM is activated and configured, you can use it for voice calls, text messages, and mobile data. Monitor your usage and manage your account through the mobile operator’s app or online portal.
You will typically need to provide a valid passport or national identification card (NIC) along with your personal details. Some mobile network providers may also require proof of address, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
There are several ways to recharge or top up your SIM card in Sri Lanka:Scratch Cards, Mobile Apps, Online Recharge or USSD Codes.
To block unwanted calls or SMS on your Sri Lanka SIM card, you can usually follow these methods: Call/ SMS Blocking Feature or using Mobile Network Provider Services
If you are experiencing SIM card or network connectivity issues in Sri Lanka, you can try the following troubleshooting steps: Restart your phone, Check network coverage, Check SIM card compatibility or Contact customer support
Having a local SIM card or eSIM in Sri Lanka can greatly enhance your travel experience, ensuring you stay connected, access important information, and share your adventures with loved ones back home. To make the best choice for your needs and budget, consider factors such as network coverage, data packages, and prices.
In this guide, we will explore where and how to purchase a SIM card for Sri Lanka at this airport, provide information on the best plans and current prices, and present the optimal option for a smooth and cost-effective trip.
Dialog is a leading network carrier in Sri Lanka, providing extensive coverage throughout the country along with competitive SIM card plans and high-speed 4G/5G networks.
Here is a comprehensive guide that outlines the process of purchasing Airtel SIM cards and eSIMs in Sri Lanka.
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This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need to know about data roaming with your cell phone in Sri Lanka.
In this guide, we will provide you with all the essential information about renting pocket WiFi in Sri Lanka.
