How To Get A SIM Card In Nepal?

If you are thinking of exploring the lands of the Himalayas soon, you need to know how to get a SIM card in Nepal. You will want to stay connected with your loved ones as you explore the unfamiliar terrains in remote parts of the country.

Nepal is a small country blessed with unmatched natural beauty. Many know it as the home of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, and the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Due to its diverse geography and landscapes, Nepal is also popular for its adventurous trek destinations. As a result, thousands of trekkers visit the country each year and participate in various activities, such as trekking, touring, and more. There are many exciting things that you can do during your Nepal visit. However, it is important to stay connected as you have fun exploring. 

It is not hard to get a SIM, but you will need complete information before getting one. Getting a local SIM gives you access to various mobile data and packages that will be helpful while traveling. But that is not the only reason for getting a Nepal SIM card. Let us explore more on how to get one and other related information during your visit.

Why Get A SIM Card In Nepal?

Few may feel there is no need to get a local SIM card since your current operator offers international roaming. However, getting a SIM card in Nepal has more than one advantage. Take a look:

Stay connected

The first and foremost reason to get a SIM card in Nepal is to stay connected. If you have a local SIM, you can stay connected with your family and friends back home anytime and anywhere. In remote areas of Nepal, connectivity is relatively poor. In some areas, the service can be non-existent. Thus, international roaming may not work properly, and getting a local SIM card is more beneficial. 

Convenient and easy

Traveling with a local SIM card is convenient and easy. Getting a card is no hassle, and the registration process is simple. You can get a SIM at the Tribhuvan International Airport and authorized stores. The card activates within a few hours, and you can easily connect with your loved ones. You can get plans and packages, and use various apps like Google Translate to break down the language barrier. 

Cheap and affordable

Getting a local SIM card in Nepal is cheaper than paying the roaming fees of your international SIM operator. The service operators offer various data and plan packages that are budget-friendly and affordable. You can call, text, or use data far cheaper than international roaming services.

Easy navigation

You can use the data of the local SIM to navigate your way around Nepal. It helps you find your way around unfamiliar places and avoid getting lost. You can use maps and GPS, get weather updates, and make calls. Similarly, you can download offline maps before you set off on a remote area journey. 

Types Of SIM Cards In Nepal

There are two types of SIM cards that you can get in Nepal: prepaid, postpaid, and data-only SIM cards. 

• Prepaid service: A prepaid SIM card service is a pay-as-you-go. There is no monthly bill, and users must recharge their account when their balance runs out. The service is common for phone plans and data packages. 
• Postpaid service: In this type of SIM card service, users must pay monthly bills with a fixed amount. The plans are unrestricted, but extra usage can result in additional charges. The service is common for phone plans and internet subscriptions. 
• Data-only SIM: If you feel that you do not need text or SMS services and that only an internet package is enough, you can get a data-only SIM. You can use different apps that run on the internet, like social media, YouTube, and more. It allows you to connect with your family and friends nationally and internationally.

Different SIM Providers In Nepal

There are three major SIM card providers in Nepal. 

Nepal Telecom (NTC)

Nepal Telecom is a state-owned telecommunication service provider. It is also the largest and oldest provider in Nepal. You can get an NTC postpaid or prepaid SIM card. NTC offers a wide range of data plans and packages at the most affordable price. If you are looking to travel in remote areas of Nepal, an NTC SIM card provides better coverage. It has an extensive network all across the country. Nepal Telecom also offers international calls and SMS at an affordable price. It also offers international roaming service. 

NCell

NCell is a leading private telecommunication service in Nepal. It is popular with locals and tourists for its reliable services. NCell offers one of the fastest telecommunication services. Similarly, it provides a fast 4G service in urban areas and major tourist attractions. NCell is another provider with postpaid and prepaid SIM cards in Nepal. It also offers various data plans and packages. Similarly, it provides data-only packs and data packs combined with voice plans. NCell also provides tourist SIM cards that are specially made for international visitors. If you are touring major tourist attractions and urban areas, a NCell SIM is a better option.

Smart Telecom

Compared to NTC and NCell, Smart Telecom is a small and emerging telecommunication service. It offers a variety of services at an affordable rate. Smart Telecom especially provides great services for those who require a lot of data use. It offers only prepaid plans and data-only SIM card services. Although the operator provides better coverage in urban areas, it is limited in remote areas. However, Smart Telecom offers a low-cost mobile solution. Travelers staying in Nepal for an extended period can take advantage of Smart Telecom’s affordable data and voice packs. 

Where To Get A SIM Card In Nepal?

It is easy to get a SIM card in Nepal. Some of the most convenient places where you can buy them are as follows:

Airport

The most convenient place to get a new SIM card in Nepal is the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. There are kiosks and booths for different SIM operators at the airport. These booths are usually at the area where people arrive. You can ask the airport staff for help or any necessary information. Buying a SIM at the airport is convenient, but it can cost slightly more than outside. 

Mobile Stores

Getting a SIM card in mobile stores is cheaper than buying one at the airport. There are many official stores around major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. You can visit these official mobile stores and get complete information. You can tell the staff what you need, and they will explain their different data plans and packages. Likewise, they will help you with the registration process. You may even get special deals and discounts. 

Authorized Stores

The telecom operators have different authorized stores where you can buy a SIM card. There are SIM card booths or kiosks in shopping centers, phone stores, mobile shops, markets, and tourist areas around Kathmandu and Pokhara. All these stores are legal and authorized to sell SIM cards. However, make sure that these stores have proper authorization. The staff will also help in the registration process and activation. 

Costs Of Local SIM In Nepal

The costs of the local SIM card in Nepal are as follows:

Required Documents For Buying A SIM Card

Now, let us get into the documents that you will need for purchasing a SIM Card in Nepal:

• Passport: Foreigners must provide a copy of their valid passport to get a SIM from any operator. You must also bring your real passport, which the store will use for verification. They will take the copy and keep it for registration. 
• Passport-sized photo: You must also bring two passport-sized photos for SIM card registration. If you do not have one, you can take photos from local photo booths or studios. 
• Visa: You must also show a valid visa while registering for the SIM. It is additional proof that you are legally staying in Nepal. 

Note: You may need to show additional forms of identification, like a national ID or driver’s license. 

SIM Card Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to the SIM card registration process in Nepal:

1. Visit an authorized store or kiosk to purchase a SIM card. You can also get a SIM at Tribhuvan International Airport or mobile stores. Do your research or ask for help from staff before getting one. 
2. The store will provide you with a form for SIM card registration. You must provide personal details while filling out your forms. 
3. After completing the form, you must provide the necessary documents and two passport-sized photos. 
4. You must submit the form with the documents, and the store will hand out the SIM card. They will also provide you with instructions for activation. 
5. Insert the SIM into your phone and follow the instructions. Usually, you have to send an SMS or dial a specific number to activate the card. You can check the activation status by calling, texting, or using your mobile data.

Process Of Activating The SIM Card

Here is how you can activate your SIM card after you get it: 

Step 1:

First, turn off your phone and then insert the SIM card. Make sure you switch off the phone to avoid any issues while activating the SIM. 

Step 2:

After inserting the SIM, turn on your phone and wait for it to connect to the network. Once it does, you will see the operator’s name on the screen. 

Step 3:

You may have to configure your phone’s settings. It can vary from operator to operator, so you can get help from the seller. Ask whether there are any setup requirements or not. Almost all SIM cards have instructions to make it easier for users to activate them. 

Step 4:

After activating and using the card, check the balance and data usage. Different operators have different dialing codes for checking it. You can easily buy balance top-ups at mobile shops and stores. Similarly, you can buy data packages by dialing codes or online. Dial the following to check your balance:

• NTC: *400#
• NCell: *901# or *101#
• Smart Cell: *123#

Step 5:

Usually, the SIM activation process is easy without any problem. However, if you encounter any issues, you can contact their customer service. They will help you fix the problem and provide any necessary information. 

Things To Consider While Getting A SIM Card In Nepal

Here are a few things that you need to consider while getting a SIM card in Nepal: 

• Check whether the operator provides strong network coverage in the areas you visit. For example, if you are trekking in the Himalayas, NTC offers better coverage in remote areas.
• Check the SIM type (standard, micro, or nano) and buy the one that matches your phone. Your phone must be unlocked and compatible with the carrier’s network. 
• Choose between prepaid, postpaid, and data-only SIM as per your requirement. 
• Compare the call, data, and SMS plans and packages. If you need international roaming, check whether the operator provides it. 
• Compare the price between the service providers, their fees, and data package costs.
• Check the validity of the SIM card and recharge options. Go for the operator that has good customer service. 

Data Packages And Plan

SIM operators in Nepal offer a wide range of data packages and plans that are cheaper than mobile networks. You can choose a plan that best fits you, depending on your requirements and preferences. Similarly, the various packages and plans are suitable for postpaid as well as prepaid SIM card users. Some of the most common data packages and plans include:

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

You can easily check and buy data packages online. You can also buy them by dialing some symbols and numbers. Dial the following to check or buy data packages for different SIM cards in Nepal:

NTC: Dial *1415#

Ncell: Dial *123# or *17123#

Smart Telecom: Dial *141#

Using an eSIM Card In Nepal

eSIM is relatively new in Nepal, but it is available. However, its use is limited. eSIM does not have a physical SIM card, and users must activate it online. NTC and NCell are currently the only providers in Nepal providing the service. The SIM is only compatible with the latest devices with eSIM support technology. 

To get an eSIM, visit the operator’s website and check the necessary information, such as pricing and services. Then, you can select the data plan that best suits you and get the eSIM. You can choose the plan based on the period of your stay in Nepal, the areas you will visit, and expected data usage. After purchasing the eSIM, you will receive an email with instructions for installation and activation. 

Follow the instructions for installing and activating the eSIM. Then, check for the network signal. Once it is connected, you can make calls, text, and use the internet. If you have any issues with the installation and activation of the eSIM, contact customer support. 

Using an International SIM In Nepal

It is possible to use an international SIM in Nepal if it has international roaming services. Although convenient, the roaming charge is expensive, and the network coverage is limited. If your home SIM card does not have international roaming, you can buy a global or international travel SIM card. These global SIMs work in different countries, including Nepal.

If you are thinking of using an international SIM card during your stay here, check its local network compatibility. The telecommunication providers in Nepal use the GDM network. Ensure that your phone supports the network so it works properly. You can get data roaming packages to avoid expensive roaming charges. These plans are prepaid and offer fixed calls, SMS, and data services. However, buying a local SIM card is still cheaper and more affordable than using an international SIM in Nepal. 

Conclusion

We hope you now have complete information on how to get a SIM card in Nepal. If you want a network connection right after you land in the country, you should get a SIM card at the airport. However, if you are in no hurry, you can get them at local authorized shops or mobile stores. Choose the operator with the data packages that best suit your requirements. Also, ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the operator’s network to use in Nepal. 

If you want to use an international SIM, check its local network compatibility. However, using a local SIM card is more budget-friendly than using international roaming. NCell and Nepal Telecom are the best options for those traveling to Nepal. We hope you will find this little guide helpful for your stay in Nepal. Stay connected anywhere and anytime while exploring the hidden beauty of Nepal using a local SIM card!