Internet and SIM Card Guide: Staying Connected in India
If you’re a remote worker, digital nomad, or traveler in India, one thing you’ll definitely need is fast and reliable internet. Whether you're working from the hills of Himachal or the beaches of Goa, staying online is easy if you plan well.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best SIM card providers, internet speeds in popular workation hubs, and smart tips for staying connected across India.
Best SIM Card Providers for Remote Workers in India
India has three major telecom providers offering affordable data and wide network coverage:
1. Jio (Reliance Jio)
- Offers high-speed 4G and 5G internet across most parts of India.
- Great coverage in both cities and smaller towns.
- Affordable prepaid plans with generous daily data.
- The MyJio app is easy to use for tracking data and recharges.
Best for: Remote workers seeking reliable data plans at affordable prices.
2. Airtel
- Known for a stable 4G and growing 5G network.
- Reliable connections in cities and popular tourist towns.
- Better customer service compared to others.
Best for: Individuals who prioritize both fast speed and excellent support.
3. Vi (Vodafone Idea)
- Offers decent 4G coverage in urban areas, but is still catching up in rural and mountain regions.
- Some budget-friendly plans, but not the best for remote areas.
Best for: Short-term use in cities or as a backup SIM.
Getting a SIM Card in India:
Visit an official Jio, Airtel, or Vi store with your passport and visa copy. Most SIM cards activate within a few hours.
Internet Speeds and Connectivity in Major Remote Work Hubs
India now has 5G available in most major towns and cities, including popular remote work destinations like Dharamshala, Manali, Goa, and Jaipur. Many locations also offer fiber broadband, which can go up to 300 Mbps or more, depending on the plan.
Here’s a quick look at internet speed in remote work hubs:
| Location | Network Type | Avg Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dharamshala, Himachal | 4G, 5G & Fiber | 30–300+ Mbps | Fiber available; fast internet in towns like McLeod Ganj & Dharamkot. AltSpace offers 24/7 power backup and stable Wi-Fi. |
| Manali, Himachal | 4G, 5G & Fiber | 20–250 Mbps | 5G live in the main town; fiber options are available with speeds over 300 Mbps. |
| Goa | 4G, 5G & Fiber | 40–300+ Mbps | Excellent for digital nomads; fiber and 5G are widely available. |
| Rishikesh | 4G & Some Fiber | 15–80 Mbps | Fiber is limited, but 4G is stable in most areas. |
| Jaipur | 4G, 5G & Fiber | 50–300+ Mbps | Strong fiber connections in coworking hostels and hotels. |
| Bangalore | 5G & Fiber | 100–500 Mbps | Ideal for long stays; best internet quality among Indian cities. |
Note: Fiber broadband speed depends on the plan you choose. Most providers offer plans from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps.
Tips for Reliable Wi-Fi and Portable Hotspots
Even with fast networks, it’s smart to have backup options—especially if you're moving between cities and mountains. Here's how to stay online:
1. Get a SIM with a Data Plan
- Jio and Airtel have the widest 5G and 4G coverage.
- Look for prepaid plans with daily data limits or unlimited usage.
- Recharge easily through apps like Paytm, PhonePe, or Google Pay.
2. Carry a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
- Devices like JioFi or Airtel 4G Hotspot help you connect multiple devices.
- Good for group stays or when local Wi-Fi is weak.
- Small and travel-friendly.
3. Stay at Coworking Stays with Power Backup
- Many digital nomads prefer places like AltSpace in Dharamshala, which offer fast Wi-Fi, 24/7 power backup, and a work-ready setup.
- These spaces often have fiber broadband and peaceful work environments.
4. Use Speed Test Tools
- Before starting calls or downloads, check internet speed with tools like Speedtest.net or Fast.com.
- Helps avoid slow connections or call drops.
5. Ask About Local Network Strength
- In some regions, one provider may work better than others.
- Always check with locals or your stay host before choosing a SIM.
Final Thoughts
Working remotely in India is now easier than ever. With 5G now available in most parts of the country and fiber internet reaching speeds of 300 Mbps or more, staying online is no longer a challenge.
For remote workers, choosing the right SIM card (Jio or Airtel), portable hotspot, and a good coworking stay like AltSpace ensures you're always ready to work—no matter where you are in India.