As a tourist, buying a Sri Lanka SIM card is a great option for staying connected and avoiding expensive international roaming fees. However, there are many choices that will make it difficult to decide which is best for you. In this blog post, we will guide you through all the necessary information about buying and using a SIM card in Sri Lanka.
Table of Contents
1. Should I Buy a New SIM Card for My Sri Lanka Trip
Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to buy a new SIM card for your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Check with your home carrier if they offer international roaming in Sri Lanka. This allows you to use your existing SIM card while abroad, but rates will likely be high.
- Sri Lankan SIM cards are very cheap to purchase. This gives you a local number and low usage rates.
- Most major Sri Lankan carriers like Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel sell SIM cards at the airport or in major cities. Activation is quick and easy.
- Having a local SIM allows you to access local data networks which are usually faster than roaming. It’s also handy for connecting to local WiFi spots.
- Consider getting a data SIM in addition to your regular SIM if you’ll be using mobile internet a lot for things like navigation, maps, etc. Data rates are cheap.
- You’ll need your passport to register for a new SIM card as required by regulations. Make sure to keep your SIM package till you leave.
Overall, for affordability and connectivity, it’s usually best to purchase a new prepaid SIM card in Sri Lanka rather than relying solely on international roaming. The benefits outweigh the small cost. Just make sure to follow local rules regarding SIM registration.
2. Sri Lanka SIM Card Types – Which One is the Best for Tourists?
When getting a Sri Lanka SIM card, you’ll have two main options:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
| Physical SIM | Wide availability. Works on all devices. | Requires inserting card. Not instantly activated. |
| eSIM | Instant activation. No physical card. | Limited compatibility. May require assistance. |
| Data-only SIM | Low cost. For internet only. | No calling/texting. |
| Voice & data SIM | Full connectivity. Most flexible. | Higher initial cost than data-only. |
| Tourist SIM | Inexpensive short term. Bundles for brief trips. | Restricted validity and bundles. |
If you are a tourist or short-term visitor, a prepaid SIM card is a good option. If you are a long-term resident or plan on using your phone extensively, a postpaid SIM card may be a better choice. eSIMs are a good option for those who want to avoid having a physical SIM card. And finally, tourist SIM cards are a good option for those who want to get a small amount of data and talk time at a discounted price.
3. How Much Data is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Sri Lanka?
So with moderate use, 2GB could last for a 5-7 day visit focusing on essentials like navigation, messaging, and limited social media/photo sharing.
- 2-3GB for a 1-2 week trip to occasionally stream videos/audio
- 5-10GB for longer stays of 2-4 weeks to comfortably use apps and social media daily
- Unlimited packages work best for digital nomads/long-term stays
Major providers like Dialog, and Mobitel have affordable higher data bundles starting from $7.9 for added peace of mind during the trip. Roaming rates can otherwise cost much more than a local SIM.
4. How Much Does a Sri Lanka SIM Card Cost?
Sri Lanka SIM card pricing depends on the mobile data amount, validity period, and extras like Sri Lanka calls/texts. Here are sample SIM card prices from major providers:
| Operators | Prepaid Plans | Price (USD) | Data | Local Calls | Messages | Validity | Addition/Activation | Total Cost (USD) |
| Airtel | Weekly Packs | ~$0.52 | 1GB 4G/Day | Unlimited A to A & 50 Minutes A to O | 50 Local SMS + 1000 Airtel to Airtel SMS | 7 days | - | ~$0.52 |
| ~$0.73 | 1GB 4G/Day | Unlimited Calls to Any Network | 51 Local SMS + 1000 Airtel to Airtel SMS | 7 days | Unlimited Access Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger, Viber, Telegram, Imo | ~$0.73 | ||
| Freedom Plus | ~$2.7 | 1GB 4G/Day | Unlimited Calls to Any Network | 52 Local SMS + 1000 Airtel to Airtel SMS | 30 days | Unlimited Access Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger, Viber, Telegram, Imo | ~$2.7 | |
| ~$4.8 | 1GB 4G/Day | Unlimited Calls to Any Network | 53 Local SMS + 1000 Airtel to Airtel SMS | 30 days | Unlimited Access Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger up to HD Quality | ~$4.8 | ||
| Dialog | Dialog Tourist Plan | ~$7.5 | 50GB | - | - | 30 days | Extra Data Usage charged at Rs 0.3 + Tax per MB ~$0.7 to Reload balance (can be used to call or SMS any local network) | ~$7.5 |
| Hutch | Hutch Hari Katha | ~$1.4 | 2GB | 500 mins | 1000 SMS | 30 days | *145# | ~$2 |
| Super Unlimited Calls + Data | ~$1.4 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 125 SMS | 7 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$2 | |
| ~$4.4 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 30 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$5 | ||
| ~$7.3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1000 SMS | 60 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$8 | ||
| ~$9.6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1500 SMS | 90 days | *145#*2*3# | ~$10 | ||
| Unlimited 888 | ~$0.88 | 7GB (1GB/day) + Unlimited Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger | Unlimited | 125 SMS | 7 days | - | ~$1.4 | |
| ~$2.7 | 30GB (1GB/day) + Unlimited Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, Youtube, Messenger | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 30 days | - | ~$3.3 | ||
| Mobitel | Tourist Pack 7 Day | ~$3 | 15GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days | #170#Select 09 | ~$3 |
| Tourist Pack 30 Days | ~$5 | 30 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | #170#Select 09 | ~$5 | |
| Tourist Pack 30 Days Unlimited | ~$16.5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | #170#Select 09 | ~$16.5 |
5. Sri Lanka eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards
Most popular Sri Lankan providers like Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch and Airtel have also begun supporting virtual SIMs known as eSIM along with original physical SIM cards.
For convenience, eSIMs can be activated before you arrive in the Sri Lanka. Some of the benefits include:
- Digital format
- No plastic SIM card needed
- Instant activation via QR code
- Use mobile data immediately upon Sri Lanka arrival
- Easily switch plans from the app
- Buy online and shipped right to your phone
Stay Connected in Sri Lanka with esimsrilanka.com.
Get high-speed LTE data in Sri Lanka without roaming charges. Purchase a Sri Lanka eSIM online for use with your unlocked smartphone. Plans start from just $7 for 1GB/7 days. Install in minutes via the QR code and start browsing. Local support whenever you need it.
6. Where to Buy a Sri Lanka SIM Card?
You have several options for buying a Sri Lanka SIM card, depending on your convenience and preferences:
- At the airport: This is the best option of all if you are coming to Sri Lanka and want to connect to the mobile network immediately. At arrival halls, you find booths of major mobile operators e.g.Dialog, Mobitel, AirTel, and Hutch. It is possible that prices would be a little higher than the other alternatives, and data packages might be fewer for tourist-oriented SIM cards.
- At mobile operator stores: These are stores that you will come across in all major cities and towns of Sri Lanka. Their SIM cards are more varied and expensive than those at the airport. Staff is ready to help you find the most suitable scheme.
- At convenience stores: Several other convenience stores such as Keells Super or Cargill’s food city will also sell you SIM cards. Operator stores might have more options, but having fewer choices can also be convenient especially when in an emergency.
- Online: Certain mobile operators and e-retailers, such as SimCorner and Yesim, deliver them online and in stores respectively. You may select a plan and receive the SIM card at your address before the travel or upon arrival at the airport. This is a good option for those who prefer not to join a queue or compare the prices of vendors.
- eSIM: You can buy an eSIM for Sri Lanka online from providers such as esimsrilanka.com if your phone is eSIM compatible. This is an advantage since there is no need to wait for a real SIM card that will be shipped.
7. How to Use Sri Lanka SIM
To activate your Sri Lanka SIM card, follow these steps:
If you have an actual SIM:
- Take out your old SIM
- Ensure that you put the Sri Lanka SIM in the tray.
- Switch on your phone and follow the provided instructions.
- Provide the SIM PIN if necessary.
If you have an eSIM
- Get the eSIM profile by scanning the QR code.
- Follow the app instructions
- You may need to restart your phone
- If needed, enter the activation code
Your Sri Lanka SIM will connect to the local network once activated. You can use data right away and make cheap calls/texts locally.
For more help, check our Sri Lanka eSIM Card Installation Guide. Or chat with us if you need help with your Sri Lanka eSIM Installation. Enjoy your prepaid eSIM and stay connected!
8. Best Mobile Operators for Sri Lanka SIM Cards
| Operator | Coverage | SIM Card Price Range | Pros | Cons | eSIM Available |
| Dialog | Extensive nationwide 4G coverage | $0.45 - $10.45 for tourist SIM | Largest network, working on 5G rollout | Slightly more expensive than others | Yes |
| Mobitel | Wide 4G coverage, particularly in cities and major towns | $0.30 - $1.49/$3.08 for tourist SIM | Very fast speeds, good coverage | More expensive data packs | Yes |
| Hutch | Coverage in major cities and towns, expanding | Free SIM but top up required | Affordable plans | Limited coverage | No |
| Airtel | Nationwide 3G/4G coverage but less extensive than Dialog/Mobitel | $0.30 - $3.05 depending on pack | Competitively priced | Slower speeds than others | No |
In summary, Dialog and Mobitel have the most extensive coverage networks across Sri Lanka. Prices vary between operators but data is very affordable across all networks. None currently offer eSIM support for visitors. Dialog is developing 5G services.
9. Tips for Saving Data for Sri Lanka SIM Card
While Sri Lanka offers relatively affordable data packages, it’s always a good idea to save data when traveling. Here are some tips to help you save data while using your Sri Lanka SIM card:
- Connect to free Wi-Fi whenever possible
- Use data-saving features on your apps
- Download maps and guides for offline use
- Turn off automatic app updates and downloads
- Use messaging apps instead of making calls
- Avoid streaming videos and music
10. FAQs
Can I use my own country’s SIM card in Sri Lanka?
Yes, you can use your own country’s SIM card, but international roaming charges may apply, making it much more expensive than buying a local SIM card.
How do I check my data balance on a Sri Lanka SIM card?
You will also be able to inquire into what you own in terms of data balance by calling the relevant network’s USSD code or sending a message to the particular number allocated for this information by the network operator.
Can I purchase a Sri Lanka SIM card before my trip?
Yes, you can purchase an eSIM online before your trip or upon arrival at the airport.
Do I need to register my SIM card in Sri Lanka?
Yes, you will need to provide a copy of your passport for registration when purchasing a physical SIM card in Sri Lanka.
Can I make international calls with a Sri Lanka SIM card?
Yes, you can make international calls, but they will incur additional charges. It’s best to use messaging apps or purchase a calling card for cheaper international calls.
11. Conclusion
Among all options, purchasing a Sri Lanka SIM Card is considered to be most convenient and cheapest option for staying connected. Many network operators and SIM cards exist for users to choose from. One should make wise selection of SIM card based on the way and extent of use. We hope that everything you need to know about purchasing and using a Sri Lanka SIM card is addressed by this blog post.
