{"id":3541,"date":"2023-11-17T08:27:30","date_gmt":"2023-11-17T08:27:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/?page_id=3541"},"modified":"2025-03-28T02:19:43","modified_gmt":"2025-03-28T02:19:43","slug":"bsnl","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/operators\/bsnl\/","title":{"rendered":"BSNL SIM Card for Tourists in India: Best Plans &amp; Where to Buy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>With over 112 million subscribers, BSNL provides affordable connectivity options for locals and visitors alike. Are you planning to go to India and want to get a BSNL SIM card for your travel? This guide will provide a detailed overview of using a BSNL SIM card and eSIM for travel to India.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"BSNL SIM card featured image\" class=\"wp-image-3606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1-510x340.jpg 510w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-featured-image-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/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-bsnl\">I. Quick Facts About BSNL<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ii-india-bsnl-coverage-and-speed\">II. India BSNL Coverage and Speed<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#iii-bsnl-connectivity-options-for-travelers-to-india\">III. BSNL Connectivity Options for Travelers to India<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#iv-best-bsnl-sim-card-for-tourists-cost\">IV. Best BSNL SIM Card for Tourists &amp; Cost<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#v-does-bsnl-india-support-e-sim\">V. Does BSNL India Support eSIM?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#vi-where-can-i-buy-a-bsnl-sim-card-and-e-sim\">VI. Where Can I Buy a BSNL SIM Card and eSIM?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#vii-how-to-activate-india-bsnl-sim-card-e-sim\">VII. How to Activate India BSNL SIM card\/eSIM?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#viii-alternatives-to-india-bsnl\">VIII. Alternatives to India BSNL<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ix-fa-qs-about-bsnl-in-india\">IX. FAQs about BSNL in India<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#x-final-words\">X. Final Words<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-quick-facts-about-bsnl\">I. Quick Facts About BSNL<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"366\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-logo.jpg\" alt=\"BSNL logo\" class=\"wp-image-3818\" style=\"width:838px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-logo.jpg 800w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-logo-300x137.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-logo-768x351.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-logo-510x233.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To know more about BSNL, follow some interesting facts below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Brand Name:<\/strong> BSNL\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Founded Year:<\/strong> October 1, 2000 \u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coverage:<\/strong> BSNL provides services across India, excluding Delhi and Mumbai, offering extensive coverage in both urban and rural areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Subscribers:<\/strong> As of June 30, 2024, BSNL had approximately 56,820 employees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Services Provided:<\/strong> BSNL offers a wide range of telecommunications services, including fixed-line telephone, mobile telephony, broadband, internet services, IPTV, and enterprise solutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Number of Stores:<\/strong> Specific numbers are not publicly disclosed, but BSNL maintains a vast network of customer service centers and retail outlets nationwide.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Service Support:<\/strong> BSNL provides customer support through various channels, including a comprehensive online help center, customer care helplines, and physical service centers across India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ii-india-bsnl-coverage-and-speed\">II. India BSNL Coverage and Speed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-bsnl-coverage-in-india\">1. BSNL Coverage in India<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"BSNL Coverage map\" class=\"wp-image-4097\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map-510x268.jpg 510w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/BSNL-Coverage-map.jpg 1216w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">BSNL Coverage map. Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nperf.com\/vi\/map\/IN\/-\/1991543.BSNL-Mobile\/signal?ll=19.394067895396613&amp;lg=84.70458984375001&amp;zoom=5\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.nperf.com\/vi\/map\/IN\/-\/1991543.BSNL-Mobile\/signal?ll=19.394067895396613&amp;lg=84.70458984375001&amp;zoom=5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nperf.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>BSNL offers extensive coverage across India, making it a reliable option for travelers exploring both cities and remote regions. Unlike private telecom providers, BSNL has a strong presence in rural and mountainous areas, including popular tourist destinations like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and the Northeast. However, its 4G network is still expanding, and speeds may be slower compared to Jio and Airtel in urban areas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For tourists seeking connectivity in offbeat locations, BSNL remains a solid choice, especially for basic calls and internet access where other networks may struggle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-bsnl-speed-in-india\">2. BSNL Speed in India<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"242\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image-1024x242.png\" alt=\"India operators speed\" class=\"wp-image-4079\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image-1024x242.png 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image-300x71.png 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image-768x182.png 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image-510x121.png 510w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/03\/image.png 1434w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>BSNL\u2019s mobile internet speed in India averages around <strong>3.1 Mbps<\/strong>, significantly slower than private providers like Jio and Airtel. While it may not be ideal for high-speed browsing or streaming, BSNL remains a <strong>reliable choice for tourists traveling to remote areas<\/strong>, where other networks may have limited or no coverage. If you\u2019re visiting rural or mountainous regions, BSNL ensures <strong>basic connectivity for calls, messaging, and light internet use<\/strong>, making it a practical backup option for off-the-grid travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iii-bsnl-connectivity-options-for-travelers-to-india\">III. BSNL Connectivity Options for Travelers to India<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As an India traveler, you can choose between these BSNL connectivity options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Connectivity Option<\/th><th>Pros<\/th><th>Cons<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>BSNL SIM Card<\/strong><\/td><td>\u2705 Affordable prepaid plans<br>\u2705 Best coverage in remote &amp; rural areas<br>\u2705 Works well for calls and basic internet use<\/td><td>\u274c Slow 3G\/4G speeds (around 3.1 Mbps)<br>\u274c SIM activation may take time<br>\u274c Limited 4G availability in cities<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Pocket WiFi<\/strong><\/td><td>\u2705 Connects multiple devices at once<br>\u2705 No need to switch SIM cards<br>\u2705 Works where BSNL network is available<\/td><td>\u274c Expensive rental fees &amp; deposits<br>\u274c Requires frequent charging<br>\u274c Limited availability outside major cities<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Roaming on BSNL\u2019s Network<\/strong><\/td><td>\u2705 No need to change your home SIM<br>\u2705 Convenient for short trips<br>\u2705 Works in rural &amp; remote areas<\/td><td>\u274c High roaming charges<br>\u274c May have slow speeds &amp; data limits<br>\u274c Not all foreign carriers support BSNL roaming<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>BSNL SIM card offer the most convenience and value. eSIMs provide flexibility but have fewer plans. BSNL provides nationwide coverage but performance can vary compared to private operators like Jio or Airtel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iv-best-bsnl-sim-card-for-tourists-cost\">IV. Best BSNL SIM Card for Tourists &amp; Cost<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a wide range of prepaid BSNL SIM card for travelers. The main options are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpdt-c row wpDataTableContainerSimpleTable wpDataTables wpDataTablesWrapper\n wdtscroll\"\n    >\n        <table id=\"wpdtSimpleTable-3\"\n           style=\"border-collapse:collapse;\n                   border-spacing:0px;\"\n           class=\"wpdtSimpleTable wpDataTable\"\n           data-column=\"5\"\n           data-rows=\"7\"\n           data-wpID=\"3\"\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:100px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Plan Name                    <\/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:100px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Validity                    <\/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:100px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Data Benefits                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-bc-F5F4FB\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:100px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Calling\/SMS Benefits                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold wpdt-bc-F5F4FB\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:100px;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Price (USD)                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 49 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 day                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1GB data                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls at 50p\/min, 100SMS                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $0.61                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 79 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2 days                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        3GB data                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls at 50p\/min, 2GB data                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $0.99                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 118 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        22 days                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2GB\/day, unlimited calls                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls, 100SMS\/day                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $1.48                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 187 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        28 days                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1.5GB\/day (1GB+500MB)                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls, 100SMS\/day                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $2.34                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 333 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        28 days                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2GB\/day (1.5GB+500MB)                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls, 100SMS\/day                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $4.16                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Rs. 399 recharge                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        84 days                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1.5GB\/day + 6GB extra data                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Local+STD calls, 100SMS\/day                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        $4.99                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                    <\/table>\n<\/div><style id='wpdt-custom-style-3'>\n.wpdt-bc-F5F4FB { background-color: #F5F4FB !important;}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n\n<p>The Tourist SIM offers a good bundle for long tours. World SIM works for short trips under a week. General SIM has the cheapest rate per GB but very limited data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So BSNL SIMs provide sufficient data, calls and SMS for India travel at affordable rates. Validity extends from 1 to 84 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"v-does-bsnl-india-support-e-sim\">V. Does BSNL India Support eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Yes<\/strong>, BSNL launched eSIM support in September 2022. It is available on Google Pixel phones and iPhones via the BSNL SIM App.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, eSIM activation is currently restricted to Indian residents only. International roaming eSIM is not yet open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vi-where-can-i-buy-a-bsnl-sim-card-and-e-sim\">VI. Where Can I Buy a BSNL SIM Card and eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the options to purchase a BSNL SIM card before or after arriving in India:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-where-to-buy-bsnl-sim-for-india\">1. Where to Buy BSNL SIM for India<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"383\" src=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-store.jpg\" alt=\"BSNL sim card store\" class=\"wp-image-3759\" style=\"width:841px;height:629px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-store.jpg 512w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-store-300x224.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2024\/01\/BSNL-store-510x382.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Online<\/strong> &#8211; On Amazon India, Flipkart, Paytm and other sites<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Airport<\/strong> &#8211; At arrival halls of major airports like Delhi and Mumbai<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BSNL Stores<\/strong> &#8211; Over 2000 company owned stores across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Authorized Retailers<\/strong> &#8211; Larger general stores or phone shops<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We recommend buying online before arrival for faster activation. E-SIMs can only be activated after reaching India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-where-to-buy-india-bsnl-e-sim\">2. Where to Buy India BSNL eSIM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently, BSNL eSIM is not available for international tourists. When enabled, you may be able to activate BSNL eSIM via:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>BSNL Website<\/strong> &#8211; Hopefully allow eSIM activation for foreign tourists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BSNL App<\/strong> &#8211; Expected to provide eSIM activation for iPhones\/Pixel phones<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So for now, eSIM is not an option. Physical SIM cards are the only choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vii-how-to-activate-india-bsnl-sim-card-e-sim\">VII. How to Activate India BSNL SIM card\/eSIM?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Activating the BSNL SIM and eSIM are fairly easy processes:<\/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\/BSNL-SIM-card.jpg\" alt=\"BSNL SIM card\" class=\"wp-image-3543\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/11\/BSNL-SIM-card-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-how-to-use-india-bsnl-sim-card\">1. How to Use India BSNL SIM Card?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Buy the preactivated BSNL SIM card online or offline<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insert SIM in unlocked phone<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dial *123*1# to check main balance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start using internet and calling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recharge as needed via app or vouchers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-how-to-activate-bsnl-india-e-sim\">2. How to Activate BSNL India eSIM?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>eSIM currently not available for tourists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When enabled, use BSNL App to scan ID and activate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follow onscreen prompts to download eSIM profile<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>May need Indian resident status proof<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So SIM card activation is simple while eSIM has a few more steps. But eSIM is not an option currently for tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"viii-alternatives-to-india-bsnl\">VIII. Alternatives to India BSNL<\/h2>\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\/Jio-SIM-card.jpg\" alt=\"Jio SIM card\" class=\"wp-image-3707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Jio-SIM-card.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Jio-SIM-card-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Jio-SIM-card-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Jio-SIM-card-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2023\/12\/Jio-SIM-card-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For tourists visiting India, <strong>Jio and Airtel<\/strong> are the top alternatives to BSNL, offering <strong>faster 4G and 5G speeds, better urban coverage, and easy SIM activation<\/strong>. Jio, known for its affordable data plans, provides widespread 5G availability, while Airtel offers reliable network quality and strong nationwide coverage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, a more <strong>modern and convenient option for travelers<\/strong> is using an <strong>India eSIM<\/strong>, which allows tourists to get instant connectivity without needing a physical SIM. With <strong>no registration hassles or store visits<\/strong>, eSIM India provides flexible prepaid plans, making it an ideal choice for short-term visitors who want a smooth and reliable internet experience.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-cta01-highlight-228hvJ wp-block-lazyblock-cta01-highlight\">\n<div class=\"cta01-highlight mb-6\">\n    <div class=\"cta01-content\">\n        <div data-page-id=\"JaJjdNzPdoRFspxLTWzltcvLgsf\" data-lark-html-role=\"root\" data-docx-has-block-data=\"false\">\n<div class=\" old-record-id-doxlgSuUOJF5xSPbdtqIKDqLhec\" style=\"text-align: center\"><strong>esimindia.net offers the best near-local price eSIM starting at just $5.50<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"cta01-button\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/\">\n            Buy Now        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ix-fa-qs-about-bsnl-in-india\">IX. FAQs about BSNL 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-1700208935904\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Does BSNL work in Kashmir\/Ladakh?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, BSNL has fairly good coverage in J&amp;K and Ladakh with 2G\/3G. Backup roaming on Airtel if needed.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700208940098\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I use BSNL SIM overseas?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, BSNL SIMs will not work outside India. You can get an international roaming pack activated.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700208946261\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How to check BSNL number?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Dial *123*3# to check your own BSNL mobile number.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700208952912\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Is BSNL 4G unlimited?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No BSNL 4G plans have FUP limits. Only 2G is unlimited after pack validity.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700208958699\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Does BSNL need passport?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>A passport or other ID may be required while purchasing a new BSNL SIM.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"x-final-words\">X. Final Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For visiting India, getting a <strong>BSNL SIM card<\/strong> is highly recommended to stay connected across the country at low cost. Coverage extends to rural and remote areas as well. Though not the fastest network, it offers excellent value. eSIM is not yet available for foreign tourists.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With over 112 million subscribers, BSNL provides affordable connectivity options for locals and visitors alike. Are you planning to go to India and want to get a BSNL SIM card for your travel? This guide will provide a detailed overview of using a BSNL SIM card and eSIM for travel to India. I. Quick Facts [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":3606,"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\/3541"}],"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=3541"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3541\/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\/3606"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/esimindia.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3541"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}