Stay Connected in Kolkata
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Kolkata offers solid mobile connectivity with extensive 4G coverage and growing 5G networks across the city. Major carriers like Airtel, Jio, and Vi provide reliable service in tourist areas, business districts, and most neighborhoods. Network speeds are generally good for streaming, video calls, and work, though can slow during peak hours in crowded areas. WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and malls, but mobile data remains your most reliable option for consistent connectivity. The city's tech-savvy population means good infrastructure, and you'll rarely face connectivity issues in central areas. However, some older parts of the city might have slightly weaker signals indoors.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Kolkata.
Network Coverage & Speed
Kolkata's mobile landscape is dominated by three major carriers: Jio (strongest 4G coverage and most affordable), Airtel (best overall network quality and expanding 5G), and Vi/Vodafone Idea (decent coverage but can be slower). 4G speeds typically range from 10-50 Mbps in good coverage areas, with Airtel often delivering the most consistent performance. 5G is rolling out gradually, primarily in business districts like Salt Lake, Park Street, and around major shopping areas, though coverage remains limited compared to Mumbai or Delhi. Network congestion is noticeable during evening hours (7-10 PM) and in crowded markets like New Market or Gariahat. Coverage is excellent in tourist areas including Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge vicinity, and major hotels. Indoor coverage in older buildings can be patchy, particularly in heritage areas of North Kolkata where thick walls affect signal penetration.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM offers the most convenient connectivity solution for Kolkata visitors, eliminating airport queues and language barriers. You'll have instant connectivity upon landing, which is invaluable for booking rides or contacting accommodations. Providers like Airalo offer India-specific plans starting around $4-15 for 1-7GB depending on duration, with reliable coverage through partnerships with local carriers. The main advantage is peace of mind - no hunting for SIM shops, no passport paperwork, and no risk of overcharging by vendors. Speed and coverage match local SIMs since they use the same networks. The slight premium over local SIMs (usually $3-8 more) is worth it for most travelers considering the time saved and guaranteed fair pricing. Setup takes minutes before your trip, and you avoid the common tourist trap of overpriced airport SIM deals.
Local SIM Card
Local SIMs are available at the airport, mobile shops throughout the city, and authorized retailer stores of major carriers. You'll need your passport and a passport photo (some shops can take one). Airport counters charge premium rates (₹500-800/$6-10), while city shops offer better deals (₹200-400/$2.5-5 for 1-2GB daily plans). Jio offers the best value with plans starting at ₹199 for 28 days with 1.5GB daily data. Activation can take 2-4 hours due to verification processes. Major shopping areas like Park Street, Camac Street, and Gariahat have numerous mobile shops, but language barriers and varying service quality can be challenging. Some shops may try to oversell expensive plans or accessories to tourists. Recharging is easy through apps or shops, but requires some familiarity with Indian telecom terminology.
Comparison
eSIM wins on convenience and reliability - instant activation, guaranteed fair pricing, and no paperwork hassles. Local SIMs cost 40-60% less but involve time, effort, and potential tourist pricing. International roaming is convenient but expensive ($10-15/day). For stays under 3 weeks, eSIM's convenience usually justifies the modest premium. Budget-conscious travelers staying longer than a month benefit more from local SIM savings, while business travelers should always choose eSIM for immediate connectivity and predictable costs.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM through Airalo - you'll land with working data, avoid airport SIM shop crowds, and sidestep potential overcharging. The time saved and stress avoided are worth the small premium over local options.
Budget travelers: If every dollar counts, local SIM saves money, but factor in the 2-4 hours dealing with shops and activation. eSIM costs just $3-8 more and gets you connected immediately - often worth it even on tight budgets.
Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM makes financial sense for extended stays. The initial hassle pays off with better monthly rates and flexibility to change plans as needed.
Business travelers: eSIM is essential - immediate connectivity for airport pickups, client calls, and navigation. The convenience and reliability far outweigh any cost difference. Don't risk delays with local SIM activation when you need to be productive from day one.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Kolkata.
Exclusive discounts: 15% off for new customers • 10% off for return customers