HelloRoam provides an eSIM for Shanghai, with plans from ₹331.21 per day. Your e SIM taps into local 4G/5G networks as soon as you land, ready to use. Scan the QR code before departure, and your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number stays active for calls. Your e-sim manages travel data at local rates, with no hidden charges from HelloRoam. Setup takes under two minutes, backed by 24/7 WhatsApp support.
- carrier networks
212+- 5G support
5G- QR activation
under 2 minutes
Last updated
Your eSIM Shanghai Bund to Pudong China data
Affordable eSIM for Shanghai, starting from ₹331.21. Local 4G LTE and 5G data on top carrier networks in Shanghai. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including OnePlus, Samsung, and iPhone. eSIMs Shanghai plans from HelloRoam run on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks from ₹331.21. Indian travellers activate via QR code from Delhi or Mumbai before departure. No physical SIM card is needed on arrival. Data is live from landing with transparent pricing and no hidden charges.
Shanghai eSIM with fast 5G coverage
Shanghai is China's most cosmopolitan city and a growing destination for Indian business travellers and tourists. Flights connect from India via Singapore or Hong Kong to Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA). China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom run 5G across Shanghai. Note: Google, WhatsApp, and most Western apps require a VPN in China. Plans start at ₹331.21.
- Plans start at ₹331.21 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- Shanghai coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- ₹331.21
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in Shanghai
Follow these steps to start using an eSIM on your iPhone or Android before travelling abroad.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Pick a data plan for your destination and complete your purchase online.
2Scan the QR code from your email
Scan the QR code from your confirmation email to install your eSIM.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM installs in minutes and activates on arrival at your destination.
4Manage everything from the HelloRoam app
Monitor data usage, top up when needed, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we have got you covered!
Plans can change, and that is perfectly fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a full refund for an unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase. Once activated, the eSIM is not refundable.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam Shanghai eSIM vs Jio, Airtel and Vi Roaming
When you compare a Shanghai eSIM against a travel SIM card or carrier roaming pack, HelloRoam delivers better value. Jio international roaming costs ₹575 per day. Airtel World Roaming costs ₹596 per day. Vi’s ₹2,999 pack covers just 24 days in select countries. For Indian travellers looking for the most affordable eSIM option, HelloRoam plans start from ₹331.21 with a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, zero activation fees, and no hidden charges. No airport SIM counter. No carrier contract.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Jio / Airtel roaming | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| Zero activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery by email | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium Shanghai carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Why Indian Travellers Choose HelloRoam for Mobile Data in Shanghai
24/7 WhatsApp and live chat support
Our support team is available 24/7 on WhatsApp, live chat, and email. A real person responds in under 2 minutes. No automated bots, no long hold queues, no waiting on the Jio or Airtel helpline for an agent. Whether you are troubleshooting a data connection in a busy Dubai market or need a top-up reminder mid-trip, our agents handle it instantly so your travel stays uninterrupted.
The best SIM card for Shanghai travel
Buy your plan before departure, scan the QR code, and get local 4G LTE or 5G data the moment you land in Shanghai. No roaming charges from Jio, Airtel, or Vi, and no SIM swap needed. Works on any eSIM compatible phone. Indian travellers consistently rate it among the best prepaid mobile data options available for international trips, offering local network speeds at a fraction of carrier roaming costs.
Keep your Jio or Airtel number active
Use HelloRoam for travel data in Shanghai and keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active for calls and messages back home. Both lines run at the same time on one phone at no extra cost. This dual SIM setup is especially useful for receiving OTPs, banking alerts, and family calls on your Indian number while your travel eSIM handles maps, WhatsApp video, and streaming abroad.
212+ carrier networks including Shanghai
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone selects the strongest 4G/5G or 5G signal on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. No manual network selection required. This automatic carrier switching means you get consistent mobile data whether you are at an international airport, a city hotel, or a highway rest stop far from the city centre.
Low-data alerts so you never run out
HelloRoam sends a notification when you reach 80% of your Shanghai data allowance. You can top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or scanning a new QR code. No surprise data cut-offs mid-trip. This prepaid recharge system works the same way as topping up a Jio or Airtel prepaid account at home, just faster and with no store visit needed.
Local 4G/5G network speeds
Your Shanghai eSIM connects to local 4G LTE and 5G networks from the moment you land. Tourist areas, airports, and city centres all get the same fast, reliable speeds. HelloRoam picks the strongest available signal automatically so maps, WhatsApp video calls, and streaming work without manual setup. Unlimited data plans are available for longer stays. Business travellers benefit from consistent high-speed connectivity for video conferences and cloud applications, removing the risk of slow hotel Wi-Fi on critical workdays abroad.
Regional and global plans in one purchase
Planning to visit Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, the UK, or multiple countries in one trip? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East in a single purchase across 185+ countries. A single regional plan removes the need to buy a new eSIM at each border crossing, which makes multi-country itineraries far simpler and significantly cheaper than purchasing individual local SIM cards at every airport.
Hotspot sharing in Shanghai, no extra charge
Share your Shanghai eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via your phone hotspot at no additional charge. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, OnePlus, and Xiaomi flagships. For families travelling together, one person with a larger data plan can share the connection with other devices, making it an economical option for group trips where everyone stays connected without each buying a separate plan.
Best SIM Card Prices for Shanghai
HelloRoam, the best SIM card Shanghai. Compare plans and save versus Jio, Airtel, and Vi roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | ₹331.21 |
| 3 days | ₹944.14 |
| 7 days | ₹2,040.55 |
| 15 days | ₹3,974.50 |
| 22 days | ₹5,391.66 |
| 30 days | ₹6,756.47 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for Shanghai
Indian travellers searching for the best eSIM for Shanghai consistently rate HelloRoam for its industry-leading refund policy, zero activation fees, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other providers on the features that matter most when travelling abroad from India.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| ₹0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium Shanghai carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM? How a Travel eSIM Works in Shanghai
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your mobile phone. There is no plastic chip and no SIM tray to open. Scan a QR code to activate your eSIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for Shanghai travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number active in dual SIM mode while HelloRoam handles your international data. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA. guide
Shanghai eSIM coverage guide for Indian travellers
Shanghai has near-perfect 5G and 4G LTE coverage throughout. Pudong Airport, The Bund, Nanjing Road, French Concession, and all major areas are well covered. Key reminder: install a VPN before arriving to access WhatsApp, Google, and social media.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in Shanghai
- 5G and 4G LTE across all Shanghai districts with near-perfect coverage
- Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) fully covered
- IMPORTANT: Install a VPN before arrival for WhatsApp and Google access
eSIM Travel Tips for Shanghai
Install a VPN before flying to Shanghai
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most Western apps are blocked in China by the Great Firewall. Install a reputable VPN app on your phone in India before your flight. VPN websites are also blocked in China, so you cannot download one after arrival.
Indian passport holders need a Chinese visa for Shanghai
Indian passport holders require a Chinese tourist visa (L visa). Apply at the CVASC in India. You need a confirmed itinerary, hotel bookings, and bank statements. Apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel.
Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before arrival
Cash and mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay international) are the primary payment methods in Shanghai. Most restaurants and shops do not accept foreign cards. Link a foreign Visa or Mastercard to the Alipay International app before arriving.
The Maglev train from Pudong Airport is a unique experience
The Shanghai Maglev runs at 430 km/h from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Metro station, taking just 7 minutes. Buy tickets at the airport. Your HelloRoam eSIM provides data for maps and hotel navigation from Longyang Road onward.
Explore the French Concession on foot
Shanghai's French Concession (Fengxian Road, Xintiandi) has beautiful tree-lined streets, boutique cafes, and art galleries. It is very walkable with strong 4G coverage throughout. Use your HelloRoam eSIM with a VPN for Instagram-worthy recommendations via Google Maps.
Shanghai mobile network coverage for Indian travellers
China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all provide 5G and 4G LTE across Shanghai. Coverage is near-perfect in The Bund, Pudong financial district, Nanjing Road, French Concession, Xintiandi, and at Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao Airport (SHA). The Shanghai Metro has 4G throughout. Note: Google, WhatsApp, Instagram require a VPN.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
Shanghai eSIM vs local China SIM vs Jio/Airtel roaming
Data options for Indian travellers visiting Shanghai.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Local Chinese SIM (China Mobile) | Jio/Airtel/Vi international roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From ₹331.21 total | ₹475.87–₹2,379.37 total | ₹475.87–₹1,427.62/day |
| Details | Plans start at ₹331.21. Buy before your flight. Land at PVG already connected. Install a VPN before arrival to access WhatsApp and Google. | Local SIMs require passport registration and the same internet restrictions apply. Tourist SIMs at PVG cost CNY 50 to 200 (roughly ₹580 to ₹2,300). | Jio international roaming for China starts around ₹575 for 1 GB over 3 days. A 10-day Shanghai trip can cost ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 in roaming charges. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit Shanghai from India
March through May and September through November are the best months with mild temperatures of 15C to 22C. Cherry blossoms appear in late March. Summer (June to August) is hot (28C to 35C) and humid with possible typhoons in August. Winter (December to February) is cool to cold (3C to 10C) with lower prices. The Chinese New Year (January or February) shuts down many businesses but is a spectacular cultural experience.
Top Attractions in Shanghai
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road in Shanghai is one of the world's busiest shopping streets at 5.5 km long. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Walk the pedestrian section at night when the neon signs are brightest.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China at 632 meters with a twisting glass design. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Book the 118th floor observation deck for views above the clouds.
The Bund
The Bund is Shanghai's famous waterfront with colonial-era bank buildings along the river. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Walk the Bund at night for the best views of Pudong's lit skyline.
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Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Last updated
Shanghai eSIM Questions Answered
How much does a Shanghai SIM card cost from India?
HelloRoam e SIM Shanghai plans start at ₹331.21 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. Activate via QR code before departure from India. No physical SIM card is needed and no Airtel or Jio roaming charges apply.
Does an e SIM Shanghai plan cover both business districts and tourist areas?
An e-sim Shanghai plan from HelloRoam delivers 5G data on China Unicom and China Telecom networks from ₹331.21. QR code activation takes minutes from India. No hidden charges and no contract on any purchase.
Which eSIM is best for Shanghai travel from India?
HelloRoam is a top-rated eSIM for Shanghai for travellers departing from India. Plans start from ₹331.21, which is far below Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day or Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day. Before your flight from Delhi IGI (IGIA), Mumbai CSIA (BOM), Bengaluru Kempegowda (BLR), Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi (HYD), Chennai (MAA), or Kochi (COK) airport, scan a QR code in your phone settings and the eSIM is ready the moment you land. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. No carrier contract, no hidden charges, no bill shock.
How much does a Shanghai eSIM cost compared to Jio and Airtel roaming?
eSIM plans for Shanghai start from ₹331.21. Compare that with Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day, Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day, or Vi's ₹2,999 pack for just 24 days in select countries. For a 7-day trip, Jio roaming costs around ₹4,025 and Airtel costs around ₹4,172. A HelloRoam plan for the same trip typically costs a fraction of that, with no daily billing and no BSNL international rates either. Pay by UPI, Google Pay, debit card, or credit card.
Which networks does a eSIM use in Shanghai?
eSIM in Shanghai connects to local 4G/5G carrier networks. Your phone selects the strongest available signal automatically on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. No manual APN setup required. HelloRoam partners with hundreds of carrier networks across 185+ countries. For travellers used to Jio or Airtel coverage in India, the local network speeds in Shanghai are often comparable or better in urban areas.
How do I buy a Shanghai eSIM before flying from India?
Getting a Shanghai eSIM before your flight from India takes three steps. First, visit helloroam.com, search Shanghai, pick a plan, and pay by UPI, Google Pay, or card. Second, open your confirmation email and scan the QR code in your phone settings under Add eSIM. Third, your eSIM installs in under 2 minutes and activates automatically when you land. No airport kiosk, no SIM counter at Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA, no waiting in a queue after a long flight.
Does iPhone work with a Shanghai eSIM for Indian travellers?
Yes. iPhone XS and all newer models work with eSIM in Shanghai. Go to Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the QR code from your HelloRoam email. Your Jio or Airtel number stays active through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles your travel data in Shanghai. No carrier unlocking is needed for iPhones purchased directly from Apple in India. For iPhones bought on a carrier plan, do check with Jio or Airtel for unlock eligibility.
Does eSIM work in Shanghai for Indian travellers?
A HelloRoam China eSIM provides data in Shanghai on China Mobile and China Unicom 5G networks. Install a VPN before arriving to access WhatsApp and Google. Plans start at ₹331.21. HelloRoam eSIM for Shanghai connects to China Mobile / China Unicom with 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from ₹331.21. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does WhatsApp work in Shanghai?
WhatsApp is blocked in China without a VPN. Install a reputable VPN app on your phone before flying to Shanghai. With an active VPN, WhatsApp works over your HelloRoam eSIM data throughout Shanghai. HelloRoam eSIM for Shanghai connects to China Mobile / China Unicom with 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from ₹331.21. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work at Pudong Airport?
Yes. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) has 5G throughout all terminals. Your HelloRoam eSIM activates on landing. Use your pre-installed VPN to access WhatsApp and Google Maps from arrivals. The airport has full 5G coverage across all terminals. Activate your data in Settings when you land and HelloRoam connects automatically to China Mobile / China Unicom. No queue, no SIM counter: you are online within seconds of landing.
Is there signal on the Shanghai Metro?
Yes. The Shanghai Metro has 4G and 5G at all stations and in most underground sections. Coverage is excellent for navigation (with VPN) and local apps throughout your Metro journeys. Major stations have 4G coverage for navigation and messaging. In deep tunnel sections between stations the signal may drop briefly. Download offline maps before entering the metro as a backup so you have navigation even without a connection.
Is there signal at The Bund?
Yes. The Bund waterfront and Pudong skyline viewing areas have excellent 5G and 4G outdoor coverage. Signal is strong for photos and navigation throughout the riverside promenade. Outdoor areas and main tourist zones have strong 5G signal from China Mobile / China Unicom. Large indoor venues or underground spaces may have slightly weaker coverage. HelloRoam eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
How much data for 10 days in Shanghai?
Ten days in Shanghai using a VPN for WhatsApp, Google Maps, and social media typically uses 6 to 12 GB. VPN usage adds overhead. Choose a 10 GB or 20 GB plan. For a week of typical travel (Google Maps navigation, WhatsApp messages, and social media) you need 3 to 5 GB. If you stream video or make video calls daily, choose a 8 to 10 GB plan. The HelloRoam app shows your remaining data balance in real time.
Is there Indian food in Shanghai?
Yes. Shanghai has a small number of Indian restaurants in the Jing'an and Julu Road areas, frequented by the expatriate community. Use your VPN and Google Maps to find Indian food options. HelloRoam eSIM for Shanghai connects to China Mobile / China Unicom with 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from ₹331.21. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
What is the CNY to INR exchange rate?
The Chinese yuan (CNY) is roughly ₹11.50 to ₹12.00 per yuan. So CNY 100 is approximately ₹1,150 to ₹1,200. HelloRoam eSIM for Shanghai connects to China Mobile / China Unicom with 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from ₹331.21. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
