Step 4
Power & Connectivity (SIM)
This information is as of 2026/08/11.
Connectivity may vary by region and season.
Voltage & Plug Types
Electrical standards and outlet shapes
⚡230V / 50Hz
🔌Type C / D / M(Large round 3-pin (Indian standard))
🔄Needed from Japan/US
💡European Type C plugs fit most Indian outlets.
Buying a SIM Card
Where to buy, costs, and activation process
📱Jio, Airtel, Vi (Vodafone Idea), BSNL
🏪Airport carrier counters, carrier shops, electronics stores
📋Passport + photo + local address (hotel address works)
💰Tourist SIM from $10-20 for 28-84 days
💡Airtel tourist SIM at airport is fastest; activation takes up to 24 hours.
eSIM & Mobile Wi-Fi
eSIM availability and portable Wi-Fi rental
📶Available
🏢Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, Jio eSIM, Airtel eSIM
💰$5-25 for 1-10GB / 7-30 days
💡Jio and Airtel support eSIM but require Indian ID; use Airalo for tourist access.
Wi-Fi Availability
Public Wi-Fi coverage and security
📡Moderate — available in cities and tourist areas
🏨Available in most hotels; speed varies by price range
☕Free in airports, railway stations, and some cafes
💡Google Station WiFi available at many railway stations; Jio hotspots expanding.
Internet Restrictions & VPN
Blocked services and VPN recommendations
🔒Low — regional shutdowns possible
🚫Some apps banned (TikTok), regional internet shutdowns in Kashmir and during protests
🛡️Not needed — unless in affected regions
💡Internet is open in most areas; Kashmir and northeast may have periodic shutdowns.
Useful Local Apps
Must-have apps for transport, translation, and maps
🚗Uber, Ola, local metro apps
🗺️Google Maps (excellent), MapMyIndia
💬WhatsApp (essential), Google Pay (UPI payments)
💡Google Pay India (UPI) is accepted everywhere; WhatsApp for all communication.
International Calls
How to make international calls and alternatives
📞+91 (India)
🆘112 (Unified Emergency), 100 (Police), 101 (Fire)
📲Dial 00 + country code + number for international calls
💡112 works from any mobile phone even without a SIM card.