Prepaid SIM / eSIM in Nepal: how to buy a 4G internet chip?
Buying an eSIM valid for Nepal
If you have a compatible phone, Holafly also offers an eSIM solution (see our article on this topic).
See eSIM offers for Nepal. Feel free to use the promo code NOMADBENTO
Buying a SIM card in town
In the Thamel district, you won’t have any trouble finding a phone shop selling SIM cards, there are really at every street corner. Look for the Ncell logos.
Buying a SIM card at the airport
After picking up your luggage, on your way to the airport exit, you’ll pass several stalls offering SIM cards.
At 1am, the stalls were open. But since I was tired and a driver was waiting for us, I didn’t take the time to ask about prices.
The two operators
There are two operators:
- Ncell: a private operator
- NTC (Nepal Telecom): the public operator
By default, sellers will usually sell you a Ncell card because it’s active instantly, whereas you have to wait a good 10 minutes for NTC.
If you’re in Nepal for a trek (like Everest Base Camp), you should however choose NTC which has much better coverage in remote areas. We had taken a Ncell SIM and an NTC one, there’s really no comparison between the two!
The principle of SIM cards is the same as in many developing countries: you buy a SIM, and put credit on it. This credit is used to make calls, send SMS, or buy internet data packs.
The seller will handle all that for you.
The rates
Prices between Ncell and NTC are very similar, see below the prices in October 2023.
What to prepare to buy a SIM card
To buy a SIM card, you’ll need:
- Your passport
- An ID photo: for me, that’s a first; no one had ever asked me for a photo to buy a SIM card ^^
Phone codes to know
Display your phone number
- Ncell: *903#
- NTC: *900#
Display your remaining credit
- Ncell: *901# —> the credit balance displays and you receive an SMS with internet credit (take a screenshot)
- NTC: *400# (credit balance) / 141555# (internet credit)
The Ncell mobile app
I installed the Ncell app out of curiosity, it’s very well done. It’s in English, allows you to check your remaining balance and buy packs if needed.
As a bonus, you get 1GB of data as a gift upon installation.
