Mumbai during WC Asia 2026 will be buzzing. Sessions, side events, meetups, street food plans, last minute cab bookings. You will need data. And you will need digital payments.
India runs on mobile internet and QR codes. Set this up on Day 1 and your trip becomes smooth. Ignore it and you will spend half your time asking for WiFi passwords.
Why Connectivity Is Non Negotiable
In India, everyday services depend on:
• Mobile data
• OTP verification on SMS
• QR code payments
Yes, cards and cash work in many places. But UPI and mobile internet are what make life friction free.
Pro tip: Do not depend only on hotel WiFi. That is a gamble.s, loud streets, and unforgettable nights. Between sessions, contributor days, and hallway track conversations, step out. Wander. Taste. Repeat.
Because the community is not built only in conference halls. It is built over shared plates, spicy debates, and second servings.
See you at WordCamp Asia 2026. Bring your laptop. Bring your appetite.
Documents Required
To purchase a prepaid SIM card in India, keep the following ready:
- Original passport
- Valid Indian visa (including e‑visa)
- Passport‑size photo (often optional)
- Local address (hotel address works)
All SIM activations require identity verification (KYC).
Where to Buy
At Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Purchasing a SIM at Mumbai’s international airport is usually the simplest option. Available providers commonly include Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea.
Typical prepaid tourist packs may include:
- 1–2 GB daily data
- Unlimited local calls
- SMS access
Approximate price range: ₹500–₹1,000 INR depending on plan validity and data allowance.
Advantages of airport purchase:
- Staff familiar with international travellers
- Faster documentation handling
- Reduced activation delays
City Store Option
You can also visit official telecom stores in Mumbai. Prices may be slightly cheaper. Activation may take longer. Avoid roadside sellers. If it looks informal, it probably is.
Activation Timeline
- Airport SIM: Often active within a few hours
- City SIM: Can take up to 24 hours
Buy during daytime. Night activations sometimes move slower.
If it does not activate:
• Restart your phone
• Check SMS permissions
• Turn off international roaming
Simple fixes solve most issues.
eSIM Alternative
If your phone supports eSIM, you can activate data instantly. Some plans are data only. That means no local number, which can be inconvenient for OTP verification. If convenience is your priority, physical SIM is still safer.
Internet Access and Wi‑Fi in Mumbai
Internet Access (Mobile Data)
This is your most reliable option.
You will need it for:
• Google Maps
• Uber or Ola bookings
• Event updates
• Ticket confirmations
• UPI payments
Prepaid plans usually give daily high speed data. More than enough for navigation, video calls, and social media updates.
Airport Wi‑Fi
Available at Mumbai Airport. You must enter a mobile number to receive an OTP. Local SIM makes this seamless. If OTP does not arrive, ask the help desk for a temporary voucher.
Hotel Wi‑Fi
Most hotels offer it. Reality check: Speed depends on how many guests are streaming at the same time. Use it as backup. Not as your main lifeline.
Cafés and Public Hotspots
Common in malls and commercial areas. Often require OTP login. Public WiFi is less secure. Use mobile data for payments.
Reliability Comparison
Mobile data remains the most dependable option and generally offers better consistency, speed, and security compared with public Wi‑Fi networks.
For WC Asia attendees, WordCamp Asia venue Wi‑Fi is typically available and useful for quick browsing or uploads, but having mobile data is safer.
Using UPI Payments in India
What is UPI
UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is India’s real‑time digital payment system that enables instant transfers through QR codes and mobile apps.
UPI is widely accepted across India — from retail stores to taxis and restaurants.
UPI One World Wallet
UPI One World is designed to help international visitors make UPI payments without needing an Indian bank account.
Setup Overview
- Install a supported UPI One World app
- Register using your international mobile number
- Visit an authorised verification counter
- Complete identity verification (valid passport + visa)
- Load INR via international card
- Set payment PIN
- Begin scanning QR codes
Where It Works
UPI QR payments are accepted at most merchants, cafés, shops, and transport providers.
Balance & Refunds
Unused wallet balance can typically be refunded through authorised counters before departure.
Final Takeaway
Mumbai is mobile first and digital driven. Get your SIM at the airport. Activate mobile data immediately.
Set up UPI early. Do these three things and your WC Asia 2026 experience will be smooth, efficient, and stress free. Ignore them and you will be borrowing hotspots from strangers.