Why buy an India SIM card
Having an Indian SIM card and number will be useful during your stay in India due to affordable data prices. It’s worth obtaining an Indian SIM while in Mysore, as it facilitates signing up for various apps such as food delivery, taxi services, laundry, and more.
Unlocked Phone
Most Indian network operators provide a physical SIM (nano or micro) or an eSIM. To use the physical SIM, an unlocked phone with a SIM tray is required.
If your mobile phone supports eSIM, many Indian operators offer an eSIM option, eliminating the need for a physical SIM and allowing you to seamlessly maintain your current connection.
Best Indian Network
tl;dr: Buy a Jio SIM. Jio have the best network coverage in Mysore, especially in Gokulam. They also offer great plan at affordable prices. You can find more details about their pre-paid plans here.
How to get an Indian SIM
Usually, network providers have counters at international airports where you can buy an Indian SIM. If you cant find these counters, you can buy a SIM in Mysore. Once you are in Mysore, head to the nearest Jio center to get the SIM.
Documents needed
Foreigners in India need specific documents to register and obtain a JIO SIM card.
- A copy of your passport’s first and last page.
- A copy of your Indian visa page
- A passport size photograph
If your passport lacks an address, you will need to present an identification document containing your address.
After submitting the documents at the Jio center, you can opt for either a physical SIM or an eSIM. The Jio center staff will assist in activating and configuring the new connection.
Airalo eSIM
If your mobile phone supports eSIM and you wish to avoid the inconvenience of visiting a center for a new connection, you can utilize services such as Airalo to purchase an eSIM prior to your trip to India. Upon arrival, simply activate the eSIM using their app and connect to a WiFi network.
Get US$3 off your first eSIM data pack using code AVINAS4816 when you sign up or apply it at checkout. https://ref.airalo.com/hsSu
This option is pricier than obtaining a SIM card locally, but it grants you immediate access to a local network upon arrival in India.