Anyone traveling to Sri Lanka wants to be online right from the start, whether it’s to order a taxi, share travel experiences, or book the next accommodation. With an eSIM, you can skip the hassle of buying a physical SIM card locally and have mobile data ready to use as soon as you land.
In this comparison of the best eSIMs for Sri Lanka, we’ll show you which providers stand out in terms of coverage, speed, price, and ease of use. We’ll also share our experiences with popular eSIM providers like Holafly, Airalo, Saily, eSIM.sm, and Maya Mobile, so you can find the right solution for your trip, whether you’re staying for a short visit or traveling around the country for a longer time.
Which are the best eSIM providers for Sri Lanka?
Top 5 Providers
- Saily – Best security and overall package
- Holafly – Best provider for unlimited data
- Airalo – Cheapest eSIM for Sri Lanka
- Maya – Widest selection of data plans
- eSIM.sm – Best network coverage & flexible rates
Best eSIM For Sri Lanka
Saily
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 10 days
- Speed: 3G/4G/LTE/5G
- Network: N/A
- Coverage: Very good
- Hotspot: No restrictions
- Calls and SMS: Via app only
- Price: $19.99
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
If you’re looking for the best eSIM for Sri Lanka, Saily might be the perfect choice. The provider, developed by the creators of NordVPN (Nord Security), stands out with a strong overall package of security, user-friendliness, and great value for money.
The virtual SIM cards are available at very fair prices and are easy to install. Activation happens automatically once the device connects to a local network — just make sure that mobile data and roaming are turned on.
Saily offers good network coverage in urban areas as well as in more rural regions.
In addition, it includes a built-in VPN and web protection for safe browsing. Based on our experience, Saily ranks among the very best eSIM providers.
Here are Saily’s available data plans:
- 1 GB – 7 days = USD 3.99
- 3 GB – 30 days = USD 8.99
- 5 GB – 30 days = USD 11.99
- 10 GB – 30 days = USD 19.99
- 20 GB – 30 days = USD 30.99
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Security features: Virtual locations (VPN).
- 24/7 live chat support: Customer service is available around the clock.
- Ad blocker: Saves data volume and improves loading speed by automatically blocking ads.
- Easy installation: The eSIM can be easily activated using a QR code or app.
Good network coverage: In urban areas and rural regions
❌ Cons
- No unlimited plans: There are currently no unlimited data packages available.
- No calls or SMS: The plans include data only; calls and text messages are not supported.
Conclusion: Saily - Best eSIM Sri Lanka
ChatGPT said:
Holafly - Best Unlimited eSIM
- Data volume: Unlimited
- Validity: 10 days
- Speed: 4G LTE and 5G
- Network: Dialog
- Coverage: Very good
- Hotspot: 500 MB per day
- Calls and SMS: No
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
The Holafly eSIM is perfect for travelers who need a large amount of data. Unlimited data is ideal for anyone who uses mobile data frequently. With Holafly, you don’t have to worry about suddenly running out of data.
This provider uses the renowned and well-developed local Dialog network (the best mobile network in Sri Lanka), ensuring a stable connection both in the capital city, Colombo, and in more rural regions.
The eSIM can be easily set up via QR code, but if the QR code doesn’t work, it can also be installed manually. All necessary instructions are included in the installation email.
Many travelers report positive experiences: users particularly appreciate the reliability, simple setup, and responsive customer support, which reacts quickly if any issues arise. This is also reflected in the excellent Trustpilot reviews.
Holafly offers unlimited plans ranging from 1 to 90 days:
- 1 day = €5.90 (£6.00 / $6.90)
- 7 days = €26.90 (€3.84 / day) (£24.00 / $29.90)
- 14 days = €43.90 (€3.14 / day) (£38.00 / $47.90)
- 30 days = €68.90 (€2.30 / day) (£60.00 / $74.90)
Pros and Cons Holafly Sri Lanka
✅ Pros
- Unlimited data: With Holaflys` unlimited data plans you never have to worry about your data usage.
- Network coverage: Holafly uses the best and fastest local mobile network.
- Automatic activation: There’s an option for automatic activation. This makes it very easy to install your card
❌ Cons
- Limited hotspot/tethering: Unfortunately, hotspot use is limited to 500 MB per day.
- No traditional calls or SMS: Regular phone calls and text messages via eSIM are not available with these plans.
- Relatively high price: Compared to local SIM cards or cheaper data plans, the price can be higher.
Conclusion: Holafly - Best eSIM for Unimited Data
Holafly is particularly suitable for digital nomads and heavy users who don’t want to worry about data consumption. It uses the excellent Dialog mobile network, which has become the Opensignal winner in almost all categories and is the only network in Sri Lanka that offers 5G connectivity.
You can expect a fast and stable connection in cities like Colombo and Kaduwela, but even in more remote areas, the network coverage remains strong.
The only real downside is the limited hotspot usage. Nevertheless, based on our experience, Holafly is one of the best eSIM options for Sri Lanka in our comparison.
airalo - Cheapest eSIM for Sri Lanka
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Speed: 4G/LTE
- Network: Hutch
- Coverage: Very good
Hotspot: No restrictions - Calls and SMS: Via app only
Price: €10.40
Airalo is a very popular choice for traveling to Sri Lanka. It offers a wide range of regional, local, and global data plans. In addition, Airalo also provides plans that include calls and SMS. In total, there are 12 local plans available on the website, as well as an Asia plan that covers 18 countries.
Activation works just like with other providers via QR code, but it can also be done directly with a single click in the app.
Airalo uses the well-developed Hutch mobile network, ensuring a fast and stable connection.
Airalo data-only plans:
7 days
- 1 GB = €4.00 / £3.50 / $4.50
15 days
- 2 GB = €5.50 / £5.00 / $6.00
30 days
- 3 GB = €6.00 / £5.00 / $6.50
- 5 GB = €8.00 / £7.00 / $9.00
- 10 GB = €10.50 / £9.00 / $11.50
- 20 GB = €16.00 / £14.00 / $18.00
Airalo plans with calls and SMS:
Pros and Cons Airalo
✅ Pros
- Very good network coverage: Airalo uses Hutch, a well-developed local network in Sri Lanka and offers stable connections, even outside the big cities.
- Packages with SMS and calls: Some plans also include SMS and call minutes.
- Easy in-app activation: The eSIM can be activated directly via the app, without a QR code, quick and easy.
- Affordable price: Compared to classic data roaming and some other providers in our comparison, Airalo offers a very good value for money.
❌ Cons
No unlimited data plan: All plans have a fixed data volume, there are no true unlimited options.
Uses only one local mobile network: As a result, network availability may be slightly limited in certain regions.
Conclusion: Airalo
ChatGPT said:
Maya mobile
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Speed: 4G LTE
- Network: SLT Mobitel
- Coverage: Good
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: No
- Price: €19.99
In our comparison of the best eSIMs for Sri Lanka, Maya Mobile stands out for its easy activation, good network coverage, and flexible data plans (including unlimited options). We especially like that you can choose any data volume with different validity periods.
User experiences (Trustpilot rating 4.6) show that the connection is stable and fast both in Colombo and in popular tourist areas like Kandy or Galle. Thanks to transparent pricing and an easy-to-use app, Maya Mobile is an interesting alternative to well-known providers such as Holafly and Airalo.
The following data plans are available:
- 3 GB = €7.99 (£5.99 / $6.99) (€2.66 / GB)
- 5 GB = €10.99 (£8.99 / $9.99) (€2.20 / GB)
- 10 GB = €17.99 (£13.99 / $16.99) (€1.80 / GB)
- 20 GB = €27.99 (£21.99 / $26.99) (€1.40 / GB)
- 50 GB = €48.99 (£38.99 / $47.99) (€0.98 / GB)
- Unlimited Data = €40.99 (£32.99 / $39.99) (€2.72 / day)
Different validity periods for each data plan can be selected on the website.
Pros and Cons maya
✅ Pros
- Flexible data plans: Maya Mobile offers a wide range of data packages for different time periods, including unlimited data plans.
- Very good network coverage: In cities like Colombo, Kandy or Galle, SLT Mobile ensures a fast and stable connection.
- Easy to use: The app is clear and easy to use.
All data plans available for different periods: From a few days to several weeks. - Good reviews: High Trustpilot rating. Users particularly praise the fast support and reliable connection.
❌ Cons
- No calls or SMS: The eSIM only offers mobile data, no local telephone number or SMS function.
- Only uses one local mobile network: This may limit network availability somewhat in certain regions.
Conclusion: maya mobile
The new provider maya mobile has a very extensive range of different data plans with limited and unlimited data volumes. These data packages can be purchased for different validity periods.
Unfortunately, only one local mobile network is used, but this is no different for Sri Lanka with the other providers. In any case, a very well-developed network is used that ensures a stable connection. Users’ experiences on Trustpilot are mostly positive.
eSIM.sm
- Datenvolumen: 10 GB
- Geschwindigkeit: 4G-LTE
- Netzwerk: Mobitel& Hutchison
- Netzabdeckung: Sehr gut
- Hotspot: Ja
- Anrufe und SMS: Nein
- Preis: 19,10 Euro
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
eSIM.sm from San Marino offers various data plans ranging from 1 GB to 100 GB. It uses the local mobile networks Mobitel and Hutch, both known for providing good coverage across most parts of Sri Lanka. Installation is quick and easy via QR code. Overall, eSIM.sm covers more than 190 countries with its virtual SIM cards.
The following data packages are available from eSIM.sm:
- 1 GB – 7 days = €4.40 (£4.00 / $5.20)
- 3 GB – 10 days = €7.40 (£6.80 / $8.80)
- 3 GB – 15 days = €7.70 (£7.00 / $9.10)
- 5 GB – 15 days = €10.80 (£9.80 / $12.80)
- 10 GB – 30 days = €19.10 (£17.40 / $22.60)
- 20 GB – 30 days = €33.90 (£30.80 / $40.00)
- 50 GB – 60 days = €82.50 (£74.80 / $97.30)
- 100 GB – 60 days = €153.60 (£139.20 / $181.00)
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Good selection of data plans: From small packages to large amounts of data for longer trips
- Very good network coverage: Uses two local mobile networks (Mobitel & Hutch) for stable connections across the country
- User-friendly app: Easy management, activation and charging of the eSIM
- Positive reviews on Trustpilot: Many users praise reliability and support
- 24/7 customer service: Available around the clock if you have any questions or problems
❌ Cons
- No unlimited data plans available
- No calls or text messages included in the rates
Conclusion: eSIM.sm - Best network coverage
As you can see on Trustpilot with a rating of 4.7, users have had almost entirely positive experiences with the provider from San Marino and that is understandable to us. eSIM.sm offers an extensive selection of data packages at fair prices.
You can also be more than satisfied with the network coverage, as this is the only one in our comparison with two local mobile networks. A stable mobile data connection with good network coverage is therefore basically guaranteed.
Local Mobile Networks Sri Lanka
Dialog
- Network coverage: Leading mobile network in Sri Lanka. Advertises that it is the best covered and fastest network, which is also the case.
- Speed: The only network that can deliver speeds of 5G
- Market position: The leading provider with 50% + market share
Hutch:
- Network coverage: Includes approximately 90 – 95% of the population
- Speed: Uses 4G network coverage varies from region to region.
- User experiences: User experiences with the Hutch network vary.
Mobitel
- Network coverage: The partially state-owned provider offers good network expansion
- Speed: Has received an award for the fastest 4 G network and is working on 5 G preparations
- User experiences: Performance and stability are considered above average
Airtel
- Network coverage: Well developed, especially in the east. However, it has not yet reached the top nationwide.
- Speed: Uses the speed of 4G.
- User experiences: Mobitel is currently even better than Airtel, but there is said to be a takeover of Dialog, although that could change
Android Installation Guide
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install your virtual SIM card on your smartphone. The installation process may vary slightly depending on the brand, so we’ve listed the most common ones (Samsung, Google Pixel, and Xiaomi).
What you’ll need
As with the iPhone, your device must first be compatible with eSIM technology.
The email containing your activation code or QR code, which you received after purchase.
Samsung Devices
Step-by-step guide
Open Settings and go to Connections.
Tap on SIM Manager.
Select Add eSIM / Mobile plan.
Tap Scan QR code and scan the code from your email.
Make sure Data Roaming is enabled so you can connect abroad.
Manual setup (if the QR code doesn’t work)
Open Settings → Connections → SIM card manager.
Tap Add mobile plan, then Scan carrier QR code.
Select Enter activation code.
Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually (you’ll find these in your email).
Tap Connect, then Confirm. Your eSIM will now be activated.
Google Pixel Devices
Step-by-step guide
Go to your System Settings → Network & Internet.
Tap SIM Manager.
Select Download eSIM and scan the QR code from your email.
Enable Data Roaming so you’ll have a connection upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
Manual setup (alternative method)
Open Settings, then go to Network & Internet.
Tap the “+” next to SIMs (or open SIMs / Mobile network if no “+” appears).
Choose Download a SIM instead? and tap Next.
If you’re asked to confirm your network, tap Use a different network.
Tap Need help?, then Enter manually.
Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code, then tap Next and Download / Activate.
Once the Download complete message appears, tap Settings / Done.
Guide to eSIM Installation on iPhone / iOS
What you need:
- An eSIM-compatible iPhone (can be checked under Settings or the provider website)
- The email with the installation instructions (with QR code, manual, in-app)
- The official Apple eSIM guide for additional orientation
Anleitung zur eSIM Installation iPhone/iOS
- Add eSIM
Open your settings and go to the Mobile/Mobile Data menu item and then tap „Add eSIM“. - Select QR code
Tap „Use QR code“ to start the installation process. - Scan QR code or enter data
Scan the QR code you received by email (you will need either a second device or someone to display the QR code. If scanning doesn’t work, you can also enter the eSIM data manually. Some providers also enable activation with a click within the app or automatic installation - Enable eSIM
Tap „Next“ to activate the eSIM. - Complete activation
Once installation/activation is complete, you should see two network signals at the top of your smartphone screen. - Set name
Tap and name the newly installed eSIM, for example in eSIM.sm.
Standard Card Determine which SIM card you want to use as the default for making calls.
Configure iMessage & FaceTime Choose your primary SIM card as the default line for iMessage and FaceTime.
Enable mobile data It is important that you activate your mobile data, you can do this under your mobile phone settings.
Enable data roaming Data roaming must also be activated so that you can use your data.
Turn on low data mode Under „Data Mode“, select „Data Mode with Low Data Consumption“ to optimize your data consumption. However, this is not a necessity.
Important note!
If you are not yet in the destination country, you should first set your primary SIM card as the default for mobile data in step 9. After you arrive in the destination country, you then switch to eSIM.
Manual setup (alternative method)
- Open your settings, go to Mobile Data, and then click Add eSIM / Set up Mobile Service → Use QR code.
- Select „Enter details manually“ and enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code that you received in the email after purchase.
- Tap „Next“, then tap „Continue“ twice, and wait for the eSIM to connect to the network (this may take a few minutes).
- Then tap „Done“.
- Choose a name for your new eSIM plan (for example eSIM Sri Lanca or the provider name).
- Set „Primary“ as default card and tap „Next“.
- Set which Apple ID (primary) you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime and tap „Next“ again.
- Select your eSIM mobile data plan and confirm with „Next“.
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