eSIM data plans for Sri Lanka

There are two ways to get data here: a fixed data plan sized to the trip, or an unlimited plan priced by the day.

Fixed data plans, by size

The fixed data plans run on Mobitel's 4G/5G network, from 1GB over 7 days up to 50GB over 30 days. Pick the size closest to what the trip needs: a short visit suits the 1GB or 3GB options, a longer stay with maps, messaging and streaming sits better in the 10GB to 50GB range. If the data runs out before the trip does, a top-up on the same eSIM restores it without a new install.

Unlimited by the day

The unlimited plans are sold in day counts, from a single day up to 30, and work across three carriers: Dialog Axiata, Hutch and Mobitel, all on 3G/4G. This suits a traveller who would rather not track a data balance, or whose days involve heavy use like video calls or navigation. Each plan carries a fair use policy: once a day's use passes a set amount, speed is reduced for the rest of that day, then resets the next.

When the plan actually starts

Validity begins the moment the eSIM connects to a network in Sri Lanka, not at purchase and not at installation. That means the eSIM can be installed before departure without spending any of its validity, it simply waits and starts counting on arrival.

Sharing the connection

Hotspot and tethering are available on every plan here, fixed data and unlimited alike, so the eSIM can share its connection with a laptop or a second device.

Booking train tickets

Sri Lanka's Department of Railways runs an official website and app for reserving train seats in advance, which needs a data connection to use.