{"id":3531,"date":"2023-11-17T08:06:16","date_gmt":"2023-11-17T08:06:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/?page_id=3531"},"modified":"2024-01-03T04:39:52","modified_gmt":"2024-01-03T04:39:52","slug":"airtel","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/operators\/airtel\/","title":{"rendered":"Airtel SIM Card for Tourists"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Airtel is one of the largest mobile network operators in India. With excellent coverage, fast speeds, and affordable rates, Airtel SIM cards are a great option for tourists visiting India. This guide provides key information about using Airtel SIM card and eSIM in India as a foreign traveler.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1.jpg\" alt=\"Airtel SIM card featured image\" class=\"wp-image-3598\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-featured-image-1-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><div><div><a href=\"#i-quick-facts-about-airtel\">I. Quick facts about Airtel<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ii-india-airtel-coverage-and-speed\">II. India Airtel Coverage and Speed<\/a><div><div><a href=\"#1-airtel-coverage-in-india\">1. Airtel coverage in India<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#2-airtel-speed\">2. Airtel speed<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><a href=\"#iii-airtel-connectivity-options-for-travelers-to-india\">III. Airtel connectivity options for travelers to India<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#iv-best-airtel-sim-card-for-tourists-cost\">IV. Best Airtel SIM card for tourists &amp; cost<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#v-does-airtel-india-support-e-sim\">V. Does Airtel India support eSIM?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#vi-where-can-you-buy-an-airtel-sim-card-and-e-sim\">VI. Where can you buy an Airtel SIM card and eSIM?<\/a><div><div><a href=\"#1-where-to-buy-airtel-sim-for-india\">1. Where to buy Airtel SIM for India?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#2-where-to-buy-india-airtel-e-sim\">2. Where to buy India Airtel eSIM?<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><a href=\"#vii-how-to-activate-airtel-india-sim-e-sim\">VII. How to activate Airtel India SIM\/eSIM?<\/a><div><div><a href=\"#1-how-to-activate-an-india-airtel-sim-card\">1. How to activate an India Airtel SIM card?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#2-how-to-activate-airtel-india-e-sim\">2. How to activate Airtel India eSIM?<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><a href=\"#viii-india-airtel-call-sms-rates\">VIII. India Airtel Call &amp; SMS Rates<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ix-useful-ussd-codes-for-airtel-india\">IX. Useful USSD Codes for Airtel India<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#x-how-to-top-up-india-airtel-sim-card-e-sim\">X. How to Top-up India Airtel SIM card\/eSIM<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#xi-alternatives-to-india-airtel-sim-card\">XI. Alternatives to India Airtel SIM card<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#xii-fa-qs-about-airtel-in-india\">XII. FAQs about Airtel in India<\/a><div><div><a href=\"#faq-question-1700207895102\">Q1. Is Airtel good for tourists in India?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#faq-question-1700207898823\">Q2. Is Airtel or Jio better in India?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#faq-question-1700207904257\">Q3. How can a foreign tourist get Airtel SIM card?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#faq-question-1700207910792\">Q4. Does Airtel offer eSIM in India?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#faq-question-1700207918964\">Q5. Is WiFi easily available in India?<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><a href=\"#xiii-final-words\">XIII. Final Words<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-quick-facts-about-airtel\">I. Quick facts about Airtel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Airtel is the second largest mobile operator in India after Jio. Key facts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Founded year<\/strong>: 1995<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Full company name<\/strong>: Bharti Airtel Limited<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Types of services provided<\/strong>: Mobile telephony, Fixed line telephone, Broadband, Satellite television, Payments bank, Digital television, Internet television, IPTV<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Number of subscribers<\/strong>: 496.91 million subscribers worldwide as of June 2022.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coverage<\/strong>: Covers 18 countries across South Asia, Africa and Channel Islands. Countries included are India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Estimated number of network of stores, agents<\/strong>: Not specified in the source, but Airtel being one of the largest telecom companies must have a vast network across its areas of operation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Customer support<\/strong>:\n<ul>\n<li>On-call customer support available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support offered in major local languages of areas of operations like Hindi, English, Swahili, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>24&#215;7 customer support available via call centers and digital channels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Airtel has over 300 million mobile subscribers across India. The network has wide coverage across the country offering 2G, 3G and 4G connectivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ii-india-airtel-coverage-and-speed\">II. India Airtel Coverage and Speed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-airtel-coverage-in-india\">1. Airtel coverage in India<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1190\" height=\"793\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage.jpg\" alt=\"Airtel India Coverage\" class=\"wp-image-3537\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage.jpg 1190w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-India-Coverage-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1190px) 100vw, 1190px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Airtel has excellent coverage across India. It covers all major cities, highways, rural areas and tourist destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some key aspects about Airtel&#8217;s coverage in India:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pan-India coverage:<\/strong> Airtel has a presence across all 22 telecom circles in India covering all states and union territories. This gives it widespread coverage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>4G in over 2500 cities:<\/strong> Airtel provides high-speed 4G\/LTE services in over 2500 towns and cities across India. This covers most urban areas and major tourist destinations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Good rural presence:<\/strong> Airtel has invested heavily in improving its rural coverage by installing towers across remote villages. This ensures good connectivity on highways and rural tourist spots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Roaming across India:<\/strong> Airtel offers seamless coverage while travelling across different states and circles without needing to change SIMs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In summary, Airtel has one of the most extensive mobile networks across India covering urban metros, rural villages, highways and popular tourist attractions. Its pan-India coverage is a major advantage for travellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-airtel-speed\">2. Airtel speed<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed.jpg\" alt=\"India Mobile Operators Speed\" class=\"wp-image-3538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/India-Mobile-Operators-Speed-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Airtel offers good data speeds across its coverage footprint:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>4G speeds:<\/strong> Airtel offers 4G with speeds up to 40 Mbps in major cities. In smaller towns and rural areas, average speeds range from 5-12 Mbps which is decent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3G speeds:<\/strong> Its 3G network offers typical download speeds of 1-5 Mbps and upload speeds of 512 Kbps which is enough for basic usage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>2G speeds:<\/strong> 2G speeds are capped at 40-60 Kbps for internet browsing on Airtel&#8217;s network. This allows basic text and voice services only.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Real-world data speeds may vary depending on location, network congestion, device etc. But overall, Airtel provides fairly good data speeds for most tourist requirements across urban and rural areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iii-airtel-connectivity-options-for-travelers-to-india\">III. Airtel connectivity options for travelers to India<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As a tourist traveling to India, you can get connected on Airtel using:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpdt-c row wpDataTableContainerSimpleTable wpDataTables wpDataTablesWrapper\n wdtscroll\"\n    >\n        <table id=\"wpdtSimpleTable-2\"\n           style=\"border-collapse:collapse;\n                   border-spacing:0px;\"\n           class=\"wpdtSimpleTable wpDataTable\"\n           data-column=\"3\"\n           data-rows=\"7\"\n           data-wpID=\"2\"\n           data-responsive=\"0\"\n           data-has-header=\"0\">\n\n                    <tbody>        <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-bc-F5F4FB\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:124px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Connectivity Option                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-bc-F5F4FB\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:241px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Pros                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-bc-F5F4FB\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:249px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Cons                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Airtel Prepaid SIM                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Inexpensive option. No contracts.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Need valid ID proof like passport to purchase. Activation takes time.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Airtel Postpaid SIM                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        No upfront cost. Family plans available. Better network coverage.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Credit checks and deposits required. Monthly bills. Penalties for cancellation.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Airtel WiFi at airports                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Easy plug-and-play access. No documentation required.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Limited to airport areas. Expensive per day rates. Slow speeds.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Airtel Global SIM                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Works in over 150 countries. Data add-ons easily.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Higher upfront cost than prepaid. Plans may not suit all travelers' needs.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Airtel Hotspot device rental                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Convenience of personal hotspot device.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Security deposit required. Daily\/weekly rental fees apply. Device needs to be returned.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Public WiFi zones                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Free basic connectivity option.                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-align-left\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Sparse availability outside major cities. Speed\/usage limits.                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                    <\/table>\n<\/div><style id='wpdt-custom-style-2'>\n.wpdt-bc-F5F4FB { background-color: #F5F4FB !important;}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-1dnEYD wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-yellow\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>In summary, a prepaid Airtel SIM card is the easiest and most practical option for visitors to get connected in India. eSIMs are good for Apple device owners wanting greater convenience.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iv-best-airtel-sim-card-for-tourists-cost\">IV. Best Airtel SIM card for tourists &amp; cost<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the best Airtel SIM card options for tourists along with indicative costs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Plan Name<\/th><th>Validity<\/th><th>Data Benefits<\/th><th>Calling\/SMS Benefits<\/th><th>Price (USD)<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Rs. 349 recharge<\/td><td>56 days<\/td><td>6GB Data (1GB\/Day for 56 Days)<\/td><td>Unlimited calling, 100SMS\/day<\/td><td>~$4.4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rs. 399 recharge<\/td><td>56 days<\/td><td>1.5GB per day for 56 days<\/td><td>Unlimited calling, 100SMS\/day<\/td><td>~$5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rs. 479 recharge<\/td><td>84 days<\/td><td>2GB data per day + 6GB extra<\/td><td>Unlimited calling, 100SMS\/day<\/td><td>~$6<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rs. 599 recharge<\/td><td>84 days<\/td><td>2GB data per day<\/td><td>Unlimited calling, 100SMS\/day<\/td><td>~$7.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rs. 1,199 recharge<\/td><td>365 days<\/td><td>1.5GB per day + additional 6GB<\/td><td>Unlimited calling, 100SMS\/day<\/td><td>~$15<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-1JV6Vb wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-blue\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p><strong>Note<\/strong> :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prices can vary depending on different time<\/li>\n<li>1 Rs = 0.012 USD<\/li>\n<\/ul>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Airtel postpaid eSIM for latest iPhones and iPads allow you to use cellular data through eSIM profile. Postpaid billing has monthly rentals and data charges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So tourists have two main options &#8211; Airtel prepaid tourist SIM for short trips or postpaid eSIM for Apple users wanting greater convenience. Costs range from $1 to $5 for initial connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"v-does-airtel-india-support-e-sim\">V. Does Airtel India support eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, Airtel India supports eSIM (embedded SIM) services. Here are some key details:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>eSIM allows users to digitally provision and activate a cellular plan on their compatible device without having to use a physical nano-SIM card.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only certain high-end smartphones and tablets from brands like Apple and Samsung support eSIM connectivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To activate an Airtel eSIM plan, users need to download the Airtel Thanks app and follow the instructions to scan a QR code or enter profile details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Airtel offers both prepaid and postpaid eSIM plans that provide identical benefits as standard nano-SIM plans like data, calling, SMS etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So while Airtel has launched eSIM services, these are not easily available for foreign tourists visiting India currently. Using a physical Airtel prepaid SIM is still the better choice for non-Apple users. iPhone\/iPad owners can activate Airtel postpaid eSIM if they have an Indian address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vi-where-can-you-buy-an-airtel-sim-card-and-e-sim\">VI. Where can you buy an Airtel SIM card and eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-where-to-buy-airtel-sim-for-india\">1. Where to buy Airtel SIM for India?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store.jpg\" alt=\"Airtel Store\" class=\"wp-image-3710\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Airtel-Store-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can easily find prepaid Airtel SIM card at the following places across India:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Airtel stores\/outlets:<\/strong> Airtel has thousands of company-owned stores and outlets across India where you can buy SIM cards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Airport counters:<\/strong> Major airports like Delhi, Mumbai have Airtel counters at arrival terminals for tourists to buy new SIMs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Online delivery:<\/strong> A prepaid Airtel SIM card can be delivered to your hotel in major cities by ordering online.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Multi-brand stores:<\/strong> Most mobile retail stores, supermarkets etc. also sell Airtel prepaid SIMs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So tourists have multiple convenient options to buy prepaid Airtel SIM card on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airtel.in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Airtel website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-where-to-buy-india-airtel-e-sim\">2. Where to buy India Airtel eSIM?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Airtel postpaid eSIM activation for iPhones\/iPads is more complex for tourists:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Requires Indian address proof which tourists won&#8217;t have<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Activation and profile download happens through Airtel Thanks app<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limited to certain corporate-owned stores in metro cities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your best option is to try contacting Airtel India customer service to check feasibility of eSIM activation without local address proof as a foreign tourist with valid passport. But there are no clear tourist-friendly channels to buy Airtel India eSIM currently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vii-how-to-activate-airtel-india-sim-e-sim\">VII. How to activate Airtel India SIM\/eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-how-to-activate-an-india-airtel-sim-card\">1. How to activate an India Airtel SIM card?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card.jpg\" alt=\"Airtel SIM card\" class=\"wp-image-3573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-SIM-card-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow these steps to activate your prepaid Airtel SIM card after inserting into your phone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>Turn on mobile data on device<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Open browser and go to Airtel self-care portal: www.airtel.in\/selfcare<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose prepaid as your account type<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enter the prepaid SIM number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete verification process by entering personal details and OTP<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accept terms and conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose your preferred recharge pack<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make payment to activate SIM<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>That&#8217;s it! Your Airtel prepaid SIM will activate within minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-how-to-activate-airtel-india-e-sim\">2. How to activate Airtel India eSIM?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To activate Airtel India postpaid eSIM on your iPhone\/iPad:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>Download Airtel Thanks app from App Store<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Register and log in to the app with your credentials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under the eSIM tab, click on &#8220;Get eSIM&#8221; and follow prompts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete eKYC verification and upload your address proof<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make payment for your preferred postpaid plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once approved, the Airtel eSIM profile will be sent to your device over-the-air<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>However, tourists without Indian address proof will not be able to complete eSIM activation via the app. You need to contact Airtel customer service directly in such cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"viii-india-airtel-call-sms-rates\">VIII. India Airtel Call &amp; SMS Rates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the latest calling and messaging rates on Airtel prepaid for tourists:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Call Type<\/th><th>Rates for prepaid plans (in USD)<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Local\/STD calls to any network<\/td><td>$0.019\/minute<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Calls to other Airtel numbers<\/td><td>$0.0094\/minute<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Income SMS<\/td><td>$0.013\/SMS<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Outgoing SMS<\/td><td>$0.019\/SMS<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Calls to landline<\/td><td>$0.016\/minute<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Airtel to Airtel USSD service<\/td><td>Free<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Wings service<\/td><td>$0.13\/month<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Local VAS<\/td><td>$0.025-0.063\/service<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>VALUE ADDED SERVICES<\/td><td>$0.063-0.19\/service<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Popular outgoing International destinations<\/td><td>$0.038-0.088\/minute<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Popular incoming International destinations<\/td><td>$0.013\/minute<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Zero connectivity charge<\/td><td>Calls within 200 minutes &#8211; Free<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Zero connectivity charge 2<\/td><td>Calls within 200 minutes &#8211; $0.63<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>So overall, local and national calling is quite affordable on Airtel prepaid at \u20b90.50 to \u20b91.15 per minute. ISD calls have higher rates starting at \u20b95 per minute. SMS costs \u20b91-1.5 per message within India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ix-useful-ussd-codes-for-airtel-india\">IX. Useful USSD Codes for Airtel India<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>USSD codes allow you to access useful settings and account info directly on Airtel. Some handy codes include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>*123# &#8211; Check balance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*123*11# &#8211; Check data balance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*123*4# &#8211; Check last 5 calls details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*123*5# &#8211; Quick recharge menu<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*121*6# &#8211; Check Airtel Money balance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>*121*2# &#8211; Activate caller tunes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply dial these codes directly on your Airtel mobile to use USSD based services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"x-how-to-top-up-india-airtel-sim-card-e-sim\">X. How to Top-up India Airtel SIM card\/eSIM<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Airtel Kiosk\" class=\"wp-image-3533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk-510x340.jpg 510w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/Airtel-Kiosk.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Adding balance\/data to your prepaid Airtel SIM card is easy and convenient through multiple recharge options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Online payments<\/strong> &#8211;&nbsp;Recharge online using Airtel Thanks app or Airtel online portal using your credit\/debit card, PayPal etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offline payment<\/strong>s &#8211;&nbsp;Top-up offline through Airtel retail stores, multi-brand outlets or local payment points. Just provide your number and choose your pack.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vouchers<\/strong> &#8211;&nbsp;Purchase top-up vouchers from stores, vendors, etc. and enter the code to recharge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SMS\/USSD<\/strong> &#8211;&nbsp;Dial *121# and follow menus for secure payment and instant recharge through SMS.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For Airtel postpaid, monthly bills can be paid conveniently through the Airtel Thanks app by card\/netbanking. So tourists have multiple convenient channels for mobile\/data recharges while travelling in India on Airtel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xi-alternatives-to-india-airtel-sim-card\">XI. Alternatives to India Airtel SIM card<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some alternatives travellers can consider instead of Airtel in India:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/\">India eSIM<\/a> now is one of the top Jio eSIM&#8217;s suppliers, from $6-$29.9 you can own an eSIM with 1-10GB data during your travel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Jio<\/strong> \u2013 Leading operator with pan-India 4G coverage and affordable data. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BSNL<\/strong> \u2013 State owned telco, limited 3G connectivity, affordable voice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vi<\/strong> \u2013 Private player, excellent connectivity in metro cities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Local SIM<\/strong> \u2013 Get a pay-as-you-go SIM of local operator in each city for cheaper calls<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>However, Airtel remains the most preferred choice for tourists because of its excellent nationwide coverage, high speed 4G network, and competitive rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xii-fa-qs-about-airtel-in-india\">XII. FAQs about Airtel in India<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700207895102\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q1. Is Airtel good for tourists in India?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Airtel is an excellent choice for tourists visiting India because of its wide 4G coverage, good speeds and affordable prepaid plans. Airtel has good rural coverage and connectivity across India.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700207898823\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q2. Is Airtel or Jio better in India?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Jio leads in 4G availability and data prices. But Airtel scores on overall network quality and coverage in rural areas and highways. For tourists, Airtel is recommended over Jio for seamless connectivity across India.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700207904257\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q3. How can a foreign tourist get Airtel SIM card?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>International tourists can easily buy a prepaid Airtel SIM in India by providing passport as identity proof at Airtel stores, airport counters or other mobile retail outlets.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700207910792\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q4. Does Airtel offer eSIM in India?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Airtel has launched eSIM service but it is currently limited to postpaid plans on iPhones and iPads. eSIM activation requires Indian address proof which tourists can&#8217;t provide.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700207918964\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q5. Is WiFi easily available in India?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, WiFi is commonly available at hotels, cafes, restaurants and public places in major tourist cities. Airtel also has over 1 million public WiFi hotspots across India offering alternate connectivity.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xiii-final-words\">XIII. Final Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Airtel offers the best cellular connectivity for tourists in India with its extensive high-speed 4G coverage, affordable prepaid plans and easy SIM availability. Just activate an <strong>Airtel SIM card<\/strong> on arrival and stay connected across your travels within India through Airtel&#8217;s nationwide mobile network.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Airtel is one of the largest mobile network operators in India. With excellent coverage, fast speeds, and affordable rates, Airtel SIM cards are a great option for tourists visiting India. This guide provides key information about using Airtel SIM card and eSIM in India as a foreign traveler. I. Quick facts about Airtel Airtel is [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":3598,"parent":3525,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-right-sidebar.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3531"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3531"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3531\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3525"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3598"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3531"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}