Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka and wondering about the best options for staying connected? Look no further than Hutch SIM cards and eSIMs. With its extensive coverage, fast speed, and affordable prices, Hutch is a top choice for travelers in Sri Lanka. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about Hutch SIM cards and eSIMs, including where to buy them, how to activate them, call and SMS rates, and more.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Hutch
Hutch is a mobile network operator in Sri Lanka. It is a subsidiary of Hutchison Telecommunications.
- Company: Hutchison Telecommunications Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, d.b.a. Hutch
- Founded: 2004
- Headquarters: Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Market Position: Third largest mobile network operator in Sri Lanka
- Subscribers: Approximately 5.3 million (as of May 2023)
- Network Coverage: 2G, 3G, 4G
- Services: Mobile voice, data, SMS, mobile internet, roaming
- Parent Company: CK Hutchison Holdings Limited (85% ownership)
II. Sri Lanka Hutch Coverage and Speed
Hutch provides mobile services across Sri Lanka and its coverage along with data speeds vary significantly depending on the region.
1. Hutch coverage in Sri Lanka
According to the Opensignal survey report of July 2023, Hutch is showing significant network progress in Sri Lanka. In terms of overall speed, Hutch trails behind Dialog and Mobitel but is gaining ground and delivers a reasonable experience for its customers.
Here’s a breakdown of Hutch’s key findings:
- Overall Coverage: Since it is a new entrant into the market, Hutch’s coverage area will probably be smaller than that of Dialog and Mobitel.
- Network Availability: There is no express reference made in the report to Hutch’s network availability. This means that Hutch users may face congestion on the networks at certain places.
In general, Hutch has a good mobile service in Sri Lanka, but ranks after the two main competitors – Dialog and Mobitel. Hutch has however demonstrated improvement in download speeds and may make more progress shortly.
2. Hutch speed
Based on the Opensignal report from July 2023, Hutch’s speed in Sri Lanka presents a mixed picture. Here are the key takeaways:
- The average download speed for Hutch users is estimated at 7.4 Mbps, and they are located after Dialog (12.8 Mbps), Mobitel (10.9 Mbps), and Airtel (8.3 Mbps).
- When it comes to upload speed, Hutch only leads slightly with an average of 2.8 Mbps. Nevertheless, that is way below Dialog (4.8 Mbps) and Mobitel (3.7 Mbps).
However, Hutch does not look like a leader in any of the other key metrics assessed by Opensignal. Hutch may not be the best overall performer, but it is a viable affordable choice for Sri Lankan mobile users, particularly those with low data requirements.
III. Hutch connectivity options for travelers to Sri Lanka
The main options for travelers to connect to Hutch in Sri Lanka include:
| Option | Description |
| Prepaid SIM Card | Purchase a physical SIM card upon arrival. Offers a wide variety of data packages and easy top-up options. |
| eSIM | Download a digital SIM card directly to your compatible phone. Convenient and doesn’t require a physical SIM card. |
| Roaming | Activate international roaming on your existing Hutch SIM card. Allows you to use your familiar number and account. |
The best connectivity option is to purchase a Hutch SIM card or eSIM, as it provides unrestricted data access at local rates for the most economic costs over both short and long trips. Issues like registration documentation are easily managed at Hutch service centers.
IV. Best Hutch SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Let’s see the best Hutch SIM packages for tourists presented in US Dollars:
| Hutch Prepaid Plans | Data | Local Calls | Messages | Validity | USSD Activation | Price (USD) | Total Cost (USD) |
| Hutch Hari Katha | 2GB | 500 mins | 1000 SMS | 30 days | *145# | ~$1.4 | ~$2 |
| Super Unlimited Calls + Data | Unlimited | Unlimited | 125 SMS | 7 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$1.4 | ~$2 |
| Unlimited | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 30 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$4.4 | ~$5 | |
| Unlimited | Unlimited | 1000 SMS | 60 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$7.3 | ~$8 | |
| Unlimited | Unlimited | 1500 SMS | 90 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$9.6 | ~$10 | |
| Unlimited 888 | 7GB (1GB/day) + Unlimited Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Youtube, Messenger | Unlimited | 125 SMS | 7 days | – | ~$0.88 | ~$1.4 |
| 30GB (1GB/day) + Unlimited Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 30 days | – | ~$2.7 | ~$3.3 |
The variety of tourist-focused prepaid SIM options from Hutch offers budget-friendly mobile data solutions for both short and longer-term visitors to stay connected whilst traveling throughout Sri Lanka.
V. Does Hutch Support eSIM?
Yes, Hutch directly supports eSIM, with the same plans as physical Hutch SIM cards. Purchasing a Hutch eSIM might pose challenges for non-residents.
Sri Lanka visitors can buy eSIM at the Hutch website, and contact directly to their customer service to get fast and reliable assistance.
Besides that, consider using eSIM from esimsrilanka.com – the top eSIM provider in Sri Lanka which offers diverse eSIM plans for any traveling goals.
Choose the best option for your trip below:
Plan that may interest you
VI. Where Can You Buy a Hutch SIM Card and eSIM?
Travelers visiting Sri Lanka often want to know where they can purchase a SIM card to have mobile data and call connectivity during their trip.
1. Where to buy Hutch SIM for Sri Lanka
Here are a few options to buy Hutch SIM cards for use in Sri Lanka:
- Direct from Hutch Stores – Hutch is one of the major mobile network operators in Sri Lanka. They have retail stores located across the country where you can purchase a SIM card. Look for Hutch franchise stores to buy SIMs.
- Authorized Dealers – In addition to their stores, Hutch SIMs are also available from third-party dealers and retailers who are authorized to sell Hutch services and products. You’ll find these dealers in shops located near airports, shopping malls, etc.
- Online Purchase – Hutch offers eSIM options that can be purchased online from their website. You’ll need a compatible device to activate the eSIM profile. Regular physical SIMs may also be available for home delivery from the website.
- Airport Arrivals – The arrival halls of the main airports in Sri Lanka – Colombo Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport have SIM card kiosks or stores where you can buy Hutch and other SIMs very easily.
- Supermarkets/Convenience Stores – Supermarkets and convenience stores like Keells, Cargills Food City, etc. also stock prepaid SIM starter packs from all major networks including Hutch.
Visiting the closest Hutch store or authorized dealer for the best availability and verifying that the SIM is genuine before activating it in Sri Lanka. Have your passport ready for verification.
2. Where to buy Hutch Sri Lanka eSIM
Here are a few options for buying an eSIM from Hutch Sri Lanka:
- Online store: Hutch has an online store on their website where you can purchase an eSIM package. Go to Hutch’s website and look for the eSIM options.
- Hutch shops: You can visit one of Hutch’s retail shops located across Sri Lanka to purchase an eSIM in person. They have shops in major cities and towns.
- Partner providers: Consider using eSIM from #1 Sri Lanka eSIM provider – esimsrilanka.com which offers Sri Lanka eSIM packages with various plans.
Make sure your device is eSIM compatible before purchasing. Hutch provides support to get the eSIM configured on your device as well. Check the Sri Lanka eSIM Compatible Devices List.
VII. How to Activate Hutch SIM Card
For those traveling to Sri Lanka, being able to activate a local SIM card is important to stay connected during your visit. The steps to activate a Hutch SIM card in Sri Lanka are:
1. How to use Sri Lanka Hutch SIM card
- You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready.
- Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
- Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
- Activate the SIM card: In most cases, Hutch’s SIM card will be pre-activated
- Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
- Check your services.
2. How to activate Hutch Sri Lanka eSIM
Getting started with a Hutch eSIM for Sri Lanka is quite easy as follows:
- Install the eSIM
- Activate the eSIM
- Set up the eSIM
- Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.
VIII. Sri Lanka Hutch Call & SMS Rates
Aside from data, you may also want to use your Hutch SIM card for calls and SMS. Here are the call and SMS rates for local, international, and mobile-to-mobile calls:
| Calls/SMS | Charges (USD) |
| On-net Hutch to Hutch local calls | $0.0036/min |
| On-net Hutch to Hutch local SMS | $0.0029/SMS |
| Off-net calls to other operators | $0.0044/min |
| International calls | Starts from $0.0087/min |
| Intra-network SMS (within Hutch) | $0.0029/SMS |
| Inter-network SMS (other operators) | $0.0044/SMS |
Keep in mind that these rates are subject to change, so make sure to check the latest rates before making calls or sending messages.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Hutch SIM Card/eSIM
Some useful USSD codes for Hutch SIM cards in Sri Lanka would be as follows:
- #123# – Details Of SIM
- *222# – SMS Free Hutch To Hutch Package
- *62*1000# – To Activate Missed Call Alert
- *344# – To Check Account Balance
X. How to Top-up Hutch SIM Card/eSIM
Losing credit on your SIM card is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to you, especially during your travel abroad. Fortunately, recharging your Hutch SIM card or eSIM is easy. You can top up using the following methods:
- Top-up cards (available at convenience stores)
- Online through the Hutch website or mobile app
- Via USSD code: 355#
Ensure that your SIM card is always loaded to prevent any disruptions.
XI. Alternatives to Hutch Sri Lanka
Here are some potential alternatives to Hutch Sri Lanka:
- Dialog Axiata is among the largest mobile network operators in Sri Lanka. Provides 4G/LTE voice and data services.
- Mobitel – Owned by the Sri Lankan government. Provides 2G/3G/4G coverage across major cities and towns.
- Airtel Sri Lanka – Part of the global Airtel network. Mobile network with data and calling plans.
- esimsrilanka.com – International eSIM provider esimsrilanka.com offers global roaming packs that work on eSIM-ready phones in Sri Lanka as well.
Comparing coverage, pricing, data allowances, and other features of these networks to find the best alternative to Hutch based on your specific needs and location in Sri Lanka. Service quality may vary between regions as well.
XII. FAQs about Hutch in Sri Lanka
Is it necessary to register my SIM card?
Yes, registering your SIM card is mandatory in Sri Lanka. You will need to present your passport and provide your personal details to register your SIM card.
What languages are supported by Hutch’s customer service?
Hutch’s customer service is available in English, Sinhala, and Tamil.
Can I use my Hutch SIM card outside of Sri Lanka?
No, Hutch SIM cards are only valid for use within Sri Lanka.
What happens if I lose my SIM card?
If you lose your SIM card, you can visit any Hutch customer care center with your passport and request a replacement SIM card. There may be a fee for this service.
XIII. Final Words
Briefly, Hutch SIM cards and eSIMs are the best options for tourists traveling to Sri Lanka. Hutch ensures that staying connected while traveling is always enjoyable since it has very wide coverage, fast speeds, and low prices. We hope that this blog will offer enough details to enable you to make an educated choice on the best SIM card for your trip to Sri Lanka.
