The Complete Bali eSIM Guide for Travellers from India: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly

Planning a Bali (or wider Indonesia) trip from India and want reliable, affordable mobile data from wheels‑down? You’re in the right place. This guide follows the same practical, no‑nonsense style as the Why Balisim articles—clear steps, local know‑how, and zero fluff. We’ll cover how eSIMs work in Indonesia, the best options if you’re flying from India, why a local eSIM usually wins, how to activate before you fly, device requirements, local rules, top‑ups, and more.

Who this guide is for

Whether you’re escaping to Bali for beaches and cafés, heading to Ubud for wellness, or exploring multiple Indonesian islands, staying connected should be simple. This guide is for travellers from India who want to skip airport queues, get a proper +62 number for local apps, and enjoy dependable coverage—without paying high roaming rates. Let’s start with a few India‑specific tips to set you up for success.


India‑Specific Considerations When Getting an eSIM for Bali

Before you pick a plan, it’s worth understanding a few India‑specific details: device compatibility, dual‑SIM setup, coverage expectations in Bali, and whether you’ll need a local Indonesian number for daily life on the island.

Device support and setup

  • Most recent iPhones (XS or newer) and Samsung Galaxy flagships sold in India support eSIM. iPhone 14/15 units sold in India have a SIM tray and also support eSIM.

  • Keep your Indian SIM active for calls/SMS (bank OTPs) and set the Indonesian eSIM as your data line.

  • Note: For this local eSIM solution, Google Pixel phones are not supported.

Coverage realities

  • Expect strong 4G across Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Ubud, Sanur, and Kuta; 5G exists but isn’t critical for most travellers.

  • Telkomsel typically offers the most consistent island‑wide experience, including more remote pockets and side trips.

Do you need a +62 phone number?

  • Essential for Gojek/Grab, local OTPs, restaurant callbacks, and many bookings.

  • Many international eSIMs are data‑only; local eSIMs typically include a +62 number.

Queue‑free arrival

  • Pre‑activate from India to avoid airport lines at Denpasar and go online as soon as you deplane.

Pro tip: On iPhone, set your Indian line to “Calls & SMS only” and leave Data Roaming off; set the Indonesian eSIM as your Mobile Data line. You’ll still receive OTPs from Indian banks without accidental roaming data charges.

With the basics sorted, the next step is choosing how you want to connect—roaming, an international data eSIM, or a local Indonesian eSIM.

 

Typical Indonesia eSIM Provider Options for Travellers from India

There are three common ways travellers from India connect in Indonesia: stick with Indian carrier roaming, install an international travel eSIM, or get a local Indonesian eSIM. Each option trades off convenience, cost, and features.

Indian carrier roaming (Airtel/Jio/Vi)

    • Pros: Zero setup; keep your +91 number and plan.

    • Cons: Daily or pack‑based roaming fees add up quickly; pricey for week‑long trips or heavy data use.

    • Best for: Very short trips where convenience beats cost.

International travel eSIMs (e.g., Jetpac, Airhub, Nomad, Airalo, SimOptions)

    • Pros: Install before you fly; auto‑activate on arrival; sharp pricing.

    • Cons: Often data‑only (no +62 number); some don’t use Telkomsel, which can mean patchier coverage around Bali.

    • Best for: Travellers who only need data and won’t rely on local‑number OTPs.

Local Indonesian eSIMs

    • Pros: +62 number included; stronger national coverage (often Telkomsel‑backed); priced for Indonesia; simple top‑ups.

    • Cons: Requires passport/IMEI pairing; eSIM/QR is single‑device only.

    • Best for: Most travellers who want seamless app access, reliable coverage, and better value.

Pro tip: If you’ll use Gojek/Grab from day one, choose a local eSIM with a +62 number and activate before you fly—you’ll walk past the airport lines and hail a ride immediately.

Next, let’s look at why a local eSIM usually delivers the smoothest Bali experience.



Why a Local Indonesian eSIM Is Usually Better

Bali is easiest with a local number and a network that covers where you’ll actually go. A local eSIM ticks both boxes—and keeps costs predictable.

A real +62 phone number

    • Required for Gojek/Grab and many OTP‑based services.

    • Makes everyday logistics simpler—drivers, hosts, and venues can call or WhatsApp you locally.

Coverage where it counts

    • Telkomsel is generally the safe bet island‑wide and across popular side trips.

    • Fewer dead spots when you venture beyond the main beach towns.

Value and flexibility

    • Tourist plans often include 20–30 days from your arrival date, with national data on 3G/4G/5G.

    • Top up easily while your IMEI remains active (e.g., up to 90 days with XL), which is ideal for extended itineraries.

Pro tip: Planning Nusa Penida, Uluwatu cliffs, or north Bali waterfalls? Choose a Telkomsel‑backed option to reduce “no signal” moments on scenic roads.

Since timing makes arrivals smoother, let’s talk about why pre‑activating before you fly is a game‑changer.

 

Why You Should Get a Local eSIM and Set It Up Before You Fly

Arrivals at Denpasar can be busy, and telecom counters often have queues. Pre‑activation means your phone is ready to go as soon as the cabin door opens.

What pre‑activation delivers

    • Online immediately to message your hotel, navigate, or order a car.

    • No rushed paperwork; complete the form and scan your QR calmly at home.

Key facts at a glance

    • Validity: Typically 20–30 days from your arrival date.

    • Single‑device: eSIM/QR is tied to one device and cannot be reused.

    • Passport limit: One passport can register up to 3 eSIMs.

Pro tip: Landing late from India? Pre‑activation helps you skip closed counters and avoid after‑hours markups from unofficial sellers.

With timing sorted, let’s compare what actually differs between local eSIM options so you can choose with confidence.

 

Comparison of Local Indonesian eSIM Options

Local eSIMs differ by network, validity, IMEI rules, whether you get a +62 number, and how top‑ups work. Matching these to your itinerary is where the value really shows.

What to compare

    • Network: Telkomsel vs XL vs Indosat/IM3 vs Tri/Three vs Smartfren (Telkomsel usually leads in Bali).

    • Validity: Most tourist plans run 20–30 days from arrival.

    • IMEI window: Example—XL eSIM active 30 days; IMEI valid up to 90 days.

    • Phone number: Ensure a +62 number is included by default.

    • Top‑ups: Confirm availability and process.

Helpful references

Pro tip: Mixing work and travel? Pick a plan with a comfortable buffer—maps, video calls, and hotspotting consume more data than expected.

Once you’ve picked your plan, installing and activating it from India takes just a few minutes—here’s how.


How to Activate a Local eSIM Before Arriving

Activation is a two‑step flow: submit the activation form (passport + IMEI) and install the eSIM on your device. Doing this at home makes arrival day much easier.

Step‑by‑step

    • Check compatibility and unlock status in your phone settings.

    • Purchase your plan and submit the pre‑arrival activation form.

    • Install the eSIM via QR scan or manual entry.

    • Set the Indonesian eSIM as your data line; turn off data roaming on your Indian line.

    • Land, attach to the network, and receive your +62 number.

Detailed guides

Pro tip: Save a screenshot/PDF of your QR code and activation details to Files so they’re accessible even if airport Wi‑Fi is patchy.

With installation handled, double‑check your handset’s compatibility and unlock status so nothing derails your departure day.

 

Device Requirements for Travellers from India

A smooth eSIM experience starts with a compatible, unlocked phone. Most recent iPhones and Samsung flagships sold in India are ready, but a quick check now saves time later.

Compatibility & unlock checks

    • iPhone: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock (look for “No SIM restrictions”); confirm Add eSIM in Settings > Mobile/Cellular.

    • Android (Samsung): Check SIM Manager/Connections for eSIM support.

    • Important: Google Pixel phones are not supported by this local eSIM.

Helpful resources

Pro tip: Travelling as a pair or group? One passport can register up to three eSIMs—set up together before you fly for a smoother arrival.

Once your device checks out, understanding Indonesia’s registration and IMEI rules will help you plan validity and top‑ups with confidence.



Local Rules You Should Know (Registration, IMEI, Validity)

Indonesia’s rules are straightforward: verify identity, pair your device, and use your plan within its validity window. Your provider will guide you through this during activation.

What to expect

    • Registration: Provide passport details during activation.

    • IMEI pairing: Binds your eSIM to your device for security and continuity.

    • Validity: Tourist plans typically 20–30 days from arrival.

    • XL example: eSIM active 30 days; IMEI valid up to 90 days.

    • Limits: One passport can register up to 3 eSIMs; eSIM/QR is single‑device only and cannot be reused.

Pro tip: If there’s a chance you’ll extend your trip, set a reminder for when your IMEI window ends (e.g., 90 days with XL) so you can top up or plan a fresh activation in time.

With the rules clear, let’s look at everyday management—checking your balance and topping up when you need more data.

 

Data Top‑Up Capabilities

Running low doesn’t have to interrupt your plans. As long as your IMEI remains active, you can add data and keep your number without starting from scratch.

Practical tips

    • Choose a plan that matches real usage—maps, rides, social uploads, and hotspotting add up.

    • Check your balance and top up before you hit zero to avoid slowdowns.

How to check and top up

Pro tip: If you’ll be on video calls or navigating long drives, top up in the morning so you have headroom all day.

With top‑ups covered, let’s end with a quick checklist and final recommendations so you can fly with confidence.

 

Quick Reference: Key Facts and Final Recommendations

Here’s a screenshot‑friendly checklist to save before you fly from India:

  • Validity: Typically 20–30 days from your arrival date.

  • Activation: Complete the pre‑arrival activation form for instant connectivity.

  • Single‑device: eSIM/QR is unique and bound to one device; cannot be reused.

  • Passport limit: Up to 3 eSIMs per passport.

  • XL specifics: eSIM active 30 days; IMEI valid up to 90 days for top‑ups.

  • Top‑ups: Available while IMEI is active; plan ahead for heavy usage.

  • Networks: National data works on 3G/4G/5G across Indonesia.

  • Phone number: You receive a +62 number on activation.

Final recommendations for travellers from India:

  • Choose a local Indonesian eSIM if you want a +62 number and reliable Bali coverage (Telkomsel‑backed options are strongest island‑wide).

  • Keep your Indian SIM on for calls/SMS and bank OTPs, but switch data to the Indonesian eSIM and turn off data roaming on your Indian line.

  • Pre‑activate in India to skip airport queues and start your trip connected.

With your plan selected and activation complete, you’re set to arrive in Bali with connectivity sorted—leaving you free to enjoy the beaches, cafés, and adventures ahead.