How To Get A SIM Card In Nepal

Are you wondering how to get a SIM card in Nepal in 2024? Well, wonder no more! It is super easy to get one in the land of the Himalayas. You can use international SIM cards, but let’s face it, the charges are pretty high. So, buying a local SIM is budget-friendly and the best solution for your trip to Nepal.

Thousands of tourists visit Nepal for trekking and touring purposes annually. While many tourist spots are in urban areas, most trek destinations lie in the remote regions of the country. Whether you are touring in Kathmandu, the capital city, or trekking in the off-the-beaten trails, you need to stay connected with your loved ones back home. Therefore, you must get a Nepal SIM card after landing. It is easy for tourists traveling to Nepal to get SIM cards.

Getting a local SIM allows you to use mobile data or internet packages while you travel in Nepal. It also helps you navigate areas, use maps, book hotels and rides, and search for information online. Various telecommunication operators in Nepal boast a wide range of services. Hence, we bring you this guide on getting a new SIM card in the country and other related information. Make sure you read until the end!

Types of SIM Cards Available in Nepal

Many SIM card operators in Nepal offer various range of services. The primary ones are as follows:

NTC (Prepaid Sim/ Postpaid Sim)

Nepal Telecom, or NTC, is the largest and oldest telecommunications provider in Nepal. It is a state-owned service provider. NTC SIM cards offer mobile and internet packages, coverage, and even international roaming services. It provides both prepaid SIM cards and postpaid SIM cards for locals and foreign tourists. Likewise, it has a variety of internet packages, from daily to weekly and monthly plans. NTC offers extensive coverage across Nepal at an affordable price. It is the best choice for those traveling to remote areas as it has a more extensive network. With a Nepal Telecom SIM card, you can make local and international calls and SMS at low prices.

Ncell

The next best SIM card service available in Nepal is Ncell. It is a leading private telecommunication service that is popular among locals and tourists. The reason? Ncell SIM card provides one of the fastest and most reliable telecommunication services. It offers excellent 4G coverage in urban areas and tourist spots. Like NTC, Ncell also has prepaid and postpaid SIM cards. It has various data packages, including data-only packs or combined voice and data packs. Similarly, it has tourist SIM cards in Nepal that are specifically made for short-term visitors. For its wide availability, faster 4G services, and convenient tourist plans, Ncell is an excellent choice.

Smart Telecom

Smart Telecom is an emerging and smaller telecommunications company compared to NTC and Ncell. It is a lesser-known operator but offers great mobile SIM cards with data services. Moreover, it is affordable and a great option for those who use a lot of data. Smart Telecom offers prepaid SIM cards for Nepal and data-only SIM cards.

It provides coverage mostly in urban areas but does not have extensive coverage in remote areas. However, if you are only traveling in tourist areas in major cities and want a low-cost mobile solution, Smart Telecom is your answer. It is a perfect travel data SIM. Furthermore, it provides affordable data and voice plans for those looking to stay in Nepal for an extended time.

Where to Buy SIM Card in Nepal?

There are many places where you can easily buy SIM cards in Nepal. The following are the most convenient places where you can buy a SIM card:

Airport

The easiest and fastest way to buy a SIM card in Nepal is at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. SIMs from different operators are available at kiosks or outlets around the airport. Staff at the outlets will provide you with information and help you make your choice. Likewise, you can find Tourist SIM cards with special packages. Buying a SIM card at the airport is quick and easy but costlier than outside.

Official mobile network stores

You can buy a SIM card at the official mobile network stores for a cheaper option. In major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can find many official NTC, Ncell, and smart telecom stores. The staff will explain their various packages and help you with the registration process. So you can get the best deal and the right package necessary for your stay in Nepal.

Authorized stores

There are plenty of authorized stores around Kathmandu that sell SIM cards. You can find these stores in shopping centers, markets, phone stores, kiosks, and tourist areas like Thamel and Pokhara. These authorized stores are legal and offer services from SIM registration to activation. However, before you buy a SIM card from them, ensure that the network provider has authorized them.

Documents Required for Getting a SIM Card

To get a SIM card in Nepal, you will have to provide a few documents. They are as follows:

• Passport: To get a SIM card from any operator, you must provide your real passport and a copy. The stores will use your real passport for verification and keep a copy for registration.
• Passport-sized photo: You must also provide two recent passport-size photos for SIM card registration. If you do not have any, you can take the photos from the local photo booths or studios in major cities.
• Visa or Entry Stamp: You will also need to provide the stores with photos of your visa or arrival stamps. It helps to ensure that you are legally in the country.

Note: You may also have to provide additional IDs, such as a national ID or driving license, as some telecom operators may require these additional identifications for SIM card registration and activation.

Steps for purchasing and activating a SIM Card

SIM card purchase

• Step 1: The first step to purchasing a SIM card in Nepal is to visit an authorized store or kiosk. You can also visit the official mobile network stores or local shops. You can also buy it at the Kathmandu airport.
• Step 2: Fill out the form provided by the stores for SIM card registration. While filling out the form, you have to provide your personal details and contact information.
• Step 3: Provide the store with all the necessary documents for registering and activating the SIM card.
• Step 4: After completing the registration form and providing the store with the necessary documents, they will give you a SIM card. They will also provide you with activation instructions.
• Step 5: Follow the instructions and activate the SIM card. Usually, it involves sending an SMS or calling a specific number. After activating the SIM card, verify whether your SIM is activated or not by texting, calling, or using the data.

SIM card activation

• Step 1: Turn off your phone and insert the SIM card. It is essential to switch off your phone to avoid any issues with SIM activation.
• Step 2: Turn on your phone and wait for it to connect to its operator’s network. Then, you will see the operator’s name on the screen.
• Step 3: Depending on the plan, you may need to configure your phone’s settings. You can ask the seller for instructions or whether there are any setup requirements. The SIM card usually comes with instructions. But if you have any problems, you can contact customer service.
• Step 4: Check your balance and data usage frequently. Almost all operators have a code that allows you to check them easily. You can top-up your balance or take data packages accordingly.
• Step 5: If there are any problems with the SIM card and its services, you can contact their customer services for a quick solution.

Benefits of Buying SIM Before Traveling

You can buy a SIM card after arriving in Nepal. However, there are several benefits of buying a SIM before your travel. There are as follows:

Immediate connectivity

If you have a SIM ready before you arrive in the country, you will have immediate connectivity once you land. You can make immediate calls, texts, or use the data. It eliminates the hassle of searching authorized SIM stores or kiosks at the airport or around the city. With immediate access to data, you can use online maps, book rides, or contact your travel agency upon arrival.

Cost-effective

Purchasing a SIM card before arrival can be more cost-effective than buying it locally. International travel SIMs often offer cheaper prices for bundle data and packages. Your home country SIM will charge you high international roaming charges. As a result, switching to a local one is a cheaper and more cost-effective option.

Convenient

Buying a SIM before traveling is also more convenient. It saves you much time and effort, as you do not have to roam around an unfamiliar city searching for an authorized SIM card seller. Similarly, you can also avoid language barriers and long queues. You can make calls or use data services to use online apps, translations, book apps, etc., right after you arrive in the country.

Control of data usage

When you buy a SIM before traveling, you have preloaded data, calls, and text packages. Therefore, you will know the cost and data limit. It helps you to control your data usage without running out of it. Likewise, it helps to prevent overcharging. You can download offline maps or other relevant apps beforehand so you can use them to reach your destination safely.

How do you use an eSIM card in Nepal?

The concept of eSIMs for Nepal is relatively new, and their use is limited. But Nepal eSIM service is available. With eSIM, you do not need a physical SIM card. Additionally, you can activate it online. NTC and Ncell offer eSIM for Nepal in addition to physical prepaid SIM cards. However, your mobile phone must also be compatible with it. So, you must first ensure the device’s compatibility with eSIM technology.

You can visit the SIM operator’s websites to view their eSIM plans. You can check their pricing, services, and other related information. Then, you can select the eSIM and data plan that suits you the best. While making the choice, you need to consider your stay in Nepal, expected data usage, and areas of travel. Then, make your purchase accordingly.

After your purchase, you will receive an email with instructions for installation and activation. Once you finish installing the eSIM and activating it, check for network signal. Ensure you can establish a reliable connection and test calling, messaging, and web browsing. If you encounter any problems or issues, you can contact customer support for help.

Cost of SIM Card in Nepal

The cost of the three primary SIM cards in Nepal are as follows:

Note: The actual cost of the SIM cards can vary depending on the location and sellers.

What kind of Data packages are available in Nepal?

The NTC, Ncell, and Smart Telecom offer a wide range of data packages suitable for different preferences. They cater to prepaid as well as postpaid SIM card users. The most common kind of data packages are as follows:

• Daily data packages
• Weekly data packages
• Monthly data packages
• Unlimited data packages
• Night data packages
• Social media data packages
• Tourist SIM packages
• Combo packages
• Long-term packages

These data packages are cheaper than using the mobile network. You can buy the data packages easily by dialing just a few numbers and symbols. Here’s how you can buy the packages for different data SIM cards for Nepal:

• NTC: Dial *1415#
• Ncell: Dial *123# or *17123#
• Smart Telecom: Dial *141#

Can we use International SIM in Nepal?

Yes, you can use international SIM in Nepal. It is convinent, and you do not have to swap your SIM card for a local one. However, the roaming charge can get relatively high and provide limited network coverage. Usually, the cost of international roaming is expensive, so you can purchase a global or international travel SIM card that works in multiple countries, including Nepal.

Similarly, check the local network compatibility with international SIM cards. Nepal’s telecommunication operators use the GDM network, so ensure that your phone supports it. Since the cost of roaming data can get high, you can purchase a data roaming package for an international SIM at affordable prices. These packages usually have prepaid plans with fixed data, calls, and SMS services. If you are considering staying in Nepal for an extended time, buying a local SIM is a much more affordable and better option.

Conclusion On How To Get A SIM Card In Nepal

The best place to buy it is at the Tribhuvan International Airport. However, you can also get it from a local authorized store. Similarly, there are different service providers, so you can buy the SIM card that best suits your needs. You can choose from various data packages that meet your requirements. Ensure you also consider their service and coverage, not just the price. Ncell and Nepal Telecom are the best tour operators with the best prepaid SIM cards in Nepal.

You can also use an international SIM card, but the roaming charges are too high. So, if you plan on traveling longer, we suggest you buy a prepaid SIM card for Nepal. Similarly, you can also get eSIM for Nepal travel instead of physical prepaid ones. With this information, you can now easily buy a SIM card in Nepal. We hope you find this little guide on how to get a SIM card in Nepal helpful. Stay in touch with your loved ones while trekking and touring Nepal by investing in the local SIM card!