Having a working phone with data is essential for navigating India — Google Maps, WhatsApp (everyone uses it here), ride-hailing apps, and restaurant reviews. Here's how to get connected.
Getting a SIM Card
At the Airport (Easiest)
Most international airports have Airtel and Jio counters in the arrivals hall. You can get a prepaid SIM in 15-30 minutes.
What you need:
- Passport
- Passport-size photo (some counters take a digital photo)
- ₹500–700 for a tourist SIM with 1-2 GB/day data for 28 days
In the City
Visit an Airtel, Jio, or Vi (Vodafone-Idea) store. City stores have more plan options but may take longer for verification.
Which Network?
| Network | Coverage | Speed | Best For | |---------|----------|-------|----------| | Jio | Excellent | Fast 4G/5G | Best value, wide coverage | | Airtel | Excellent | Fast 4G/5G | Most reliable, especially in rural areas | | Vi | Good | Decent | Budget plans |
Recommendation: Airtel for reliability, Jio for value. Both work well in cities and on highways.
Typical Plans
- ₹299: 1.5 GB/day, 28 days, unlimited calls
- ₹449: 2 GB/day, 28 days, unlimited calls
- ₹599: 1.5 GB/day, 56 days, unlimited calls
This is enough for Google Maps navigation, WhatsApp, social media, and light streaming.
WiFi Availability
- Hotels: Most hotels have WiFi, but speed varies dramatically
- Cafes: Good WiFi in urban cafes (Starbucks, local chains)
- Airports: Free WiFi available (usually with OTP verification)
- Rural areas: Don't count on WiFi — your SIM data is your lifeline
Tips
- Get a SIM at the airport — don't wait. You'll need maps immediately.
- Download offline Google Maps for your route — backup for areas with poor signal
- WhatsApp is king — your driver, hotel, and tour contacts will all use it
- UPI payments require an Indian bank account, but most tourists use cash and cards just fine
Staying Connected on Road Trips
With Royal Fleet, your driver knows the dead zones and best signal areas. But with Airtel or Jio, you'll have coverage on virtually every national highway.