If you’re traveling to or living in India, you may want to consider using a VPN. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) protect your online activities by routing all your traffic through an encrypted server. This keeps your internet activities safe from snoopers and hackers, but it can also spoof your location, giving you access to geo-restricted content from your home country while traveling.
Recently, the Indian government announced plans to make VPN providers store identifying data on their users (for at least five years). This means that if you want to stay completely anonymous while online in India, you’ll need a VPN provider that does not have servers physically located in India. However, if you want to access Indian sites and services while abroad or just stay safe on public wifi while in India, you’ll want access to servers within the country.
In this article, we’ll cover the best VPNs for India, some with servers in the country and some without, and explain how to use them. But if you haven’t got the time to read the whole article, here are our top picks.
Best VPNs for India:
- NordVPN: Our top choice for an India VPN. Strong security and digital privacy features and a reliable network of servers that deliver good speeds for streaming and downloading. No servers in India and a strict no-logs policy. Easy to use apps. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Best budget option for an India VPN. Offers strong unblocking ability, good speeds, a sweeping range of security features, and 50+ virtual Indian servers. Allows you to connect unlimited devices at once.
- ExpressVPN: Fast servers in 94+ countries, including two virtual India locations. Great security and privacy features.
- CyberGhost: Beginners’ choice VPN with easy-to-use apps and a vast server network, including almost 30 servers in India. Fast speeds and good security.
- IPVanish: Reliable network that owns its servers outright. No servers in India, and keeps no logs. Favored by Kodi users and torrenters for its consistent speeds.
- PrivateVPN: Impressive speeds and privacy protocols. Has servers in 60+ countries, including India. Allows 10 simultaneous connections.
- Atlas VPN: Extremely high speeds and powerful security features. Protect as many devices as you like. No servers in India. Zero logs policy.
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Best VPNs for India: at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for India.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | IPVanish | PrivateVPN | AtlasVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | IPVanish.com | PrivateVPN.com | atlasvpn.com | Ranking for India | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | Total number of servers | 5,700+ | 3,200 | Undisclosed | 9,300 | 2,200+ | 200+ | 1000+ | Other streaming services | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime Video | Netflix Amazon Prime Video HBO Max Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video HBO Max | Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 5 | 7 | Unlimited | 10 | Unlimited | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV |
| Best deal (per month) | $3.19 SAVE 61% + 3 month FREE | $2.30 Get 2 Months FREE with a 2-year plan | $6.67 SAVE: 49% on the annual plan | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 year plan + 2 months FREE | $3.33 SAVE 72% on the 2 year plan | $2.00 SAVE 85% on the three year plan | $1.82 SAVE 85% on a 2 year plan |
Best VPNs for India
From a quick look online, you may already be aware that there are a lot of options when it comes to choosing a VPN. For our ranked list of the best VPNs for India, we’ve carefully chosen VPN service providers that can meet the criteria below.
- Value for money
- Doesn’t keep usage logs
- Strong encryption parameters
- Speed and stability
- Suitable for torrenting
- Apps for Android and iOS
You can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut.
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for India:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top recommendation for an India VPN. It reacted quickly to the government’s law change and removed all of its Indian servers. Of course, thanks to its strict “zero logs” policy, it couldn’t have revealed any info about you, regardless. Still unsure? It’s possible to pay via Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum, meaning paper trails are kept to a minimum.
Since it has no Indian servers, it’s not the choice for you if you need an Indian IP address. However, it still tops our list thanks to its 5,400+ fast and reliable servers that can help you access geo-restricted content from 60+ other countries.
This VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption as standard and gives users the option of connecting to special obfuscated servers that are designed for use in places with strict online censorship. There’s also a kill switch, leak protection, and built-in tracker-blocking. Users can secure up to six devices at a time.
This VPN excels at securely accessing services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, and its commitment to blazing speeds means it’s an excellent choice for any data-intensive task. Apps are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Over 5,400 global servers in 60+ countries
- Blazing-fast speeds for HD streaming
- Anti-censorship servers
- Enjoy A high degree of anonymity with no logs and cryptocurrency payments
- Top-tier encryption standards with leak protection
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android
Cons:
- Can’t favorite specific servers
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR INDIA:NordVPN is our top choice. A solid performer, great at beating digital censorship. A top choice for security and privacy. Use up to 6 devices at once with great internet connection speeds. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is a great low-cost option with more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. Notably, it has 50+ virtual servers that can get you an Indian IP address while keeping you safe from the country’s sweeping new data-logging laws. Additionally, unlike most other VPNs, Surfshark has no VPN connection limit, so you’re free to browse on whichever device you prefer.
This service uses DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit AES encryption to keep your traffic hidden from snoopers at all times. There’s also a built-in ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and a strict zero-logs policy that keeps your activities private at all times. There’s even a censorship-evading NoBorders mode built-in that’s helpful for any international traveler. Should you require any assistance, you can reach support over live chat, 24/7.
Surfshark offers Android, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Windows apps. If you’d like, you can manually configure it for use with your home router instead.
Pros:
- Great unblocking ability
- Top-notch security features
- No VPN connection limit
- No-logs policy
- Pay with cryptocurrencies
Cons:
- Customer support could be better
Our score:
BEST BUDGET PICK:Surfshark is an easy-to-use VPN that lets you bypass Indian internet blocking and access the web freely. More importantly, it keeps you safe while doing so. This service also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is one of our favorite VPN services because of its reliability, commitment to users’ online privacy, and blazing-fast speeds. While this provider no longer has physical servers in India, it has virtual ones that can still get you an Indian IP address, meaning you’ll still be able to use Disney+ Hotstar and the like abroad, while staying safe from the new data laws.
Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IP6, and WebRTC leaks. Further, ExpressVPN keeps no traffic logs whatsoever other than the choice of server location, total amount of data transfer, and date (not time) of connection. This VPN is based out of the British Virgin Islands and, as such, doesn’t have to comply with Indian data-retention law. Better still, it can help you browse the internet freely whether you’re in India, China, or anywhere else.
ExpressVPN apps are available for iOS, MacOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. It also has custom router firmware that makes it easy to set up your home router.
Pros:
- Solid speeds for browsing and streaming
- High-grade encryption, security, and privacy throughout
- Keeps no traffic logs of personal data
- Great support
- Includes a money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Not the cheapest option on this list
- Streaming servers aren’t labeled
Our score:
TICKS ALL THE BOXES:ExpressVPN holds its own. A fast and reliable choice with real everyday usage potential and virtual India servers. Great privacy features and keeps no logs. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that nonetheless provides top-tier speed and security. The company has an internal policy of not storing any user data, which will please privacy advocates.
Currently, this VPN has a whopping 9,000+ servers to choose from across over 90 countries. Notably, their 30+ Indian servers are virtual, and they work with popular services like Hotstar and Netflix India, but because they’re not actually located in the country, you can use them without putting your privacy at risk.
Its security standards are among the best on the market. Specifically, CyberGhost uses 256-bit AES encryption, an internet kill switch, leak protection, and automatic wifi protection to keep your data safe and secure at all times.
CyberGhost supports both Android and iOS, as well as PC, Linux, and MacOS.
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly provider with impressive streaming speeds
- Vast server network including 30+ virtual Indian servers
- Strong encryption and solid privacy policy
- Works with Indian streaming services
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Could offer more control over advanced features
- Doesn’t work in China
Our score:
PRIVACY-FOCUSED:CyberGhost has a simple set up. Another affordable choice. Good on privacy. Streams HD video reliably. Has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish owns and operates all of its server locations across the globe (unlike most other VPN services which prefer to rent). Hence it’s in total control of all the data passing through its systems with greatly minimized risk. They removed their Indian servers following the data law changes but maintain over 2,200 servers in 75+ other global locations.
This VPN comes with 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol and includes both DNS leak protection and a kill switch. You can even block local devices, such as printers, from communicating with your device or scramble OpenVPN traffic to potentially evade VPN-detection systems. There are no connection limits, either, so a single account allows you to protect all of your devices at once.
While the company is based in the United States, it does not store any traffic or metadata logs, meaning user activity is safeguarded and secure. Apps are available for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. Manual configuration is needed for Linux systems and supported routers.
Pros:
- Completely logless service won’t compromise your privacy
- Impressive 4K streaming speeds achieved during testing
- Strong encryption makes apps secure
- No connection limit
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer a cryptocurrency payment method
- Based in the US, a 5 Eyes member
Our score:
GOOD FOR TORRENTING:IPVanish offers strong privacy and security with a no-logs policy plus additional protection against DNS leaks. Popular with Kodi and torrent users. 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is one of the few VPN providers which still maintains physical servers in India. The company states that it will abide by its strict no-logs policy, despite the new government laws. This might not be enough for security-conscious customers, but if all you want is extra online security within the country, PrivateVPN can be a strong choice.
This is a highly versatile service that works reliably with popular streaming platforms including Netflix US, Disney+ Hotstar, The Times of India, and India TV. Its security toolkit includes 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks, plus a stealth mode made for bypassing country-wide censorship. Customer support can be reached 24/7 via live chat, and can even remotely connect to your computer and configure the software for you if you allow them to.
This service offers Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS apps. It can be manually configured to work on Linux-based systems and selected routers in a matter of minutes.
Pros:
- Fast speeds
- Works well with streaming services, including Netflix
- Great security and privacy features
Cons:
- Physical Indian servers
- Live chat support not 24/7
Our score:
GREAT SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Works well in India and allows up to 10 devices on the same account. Fast connections and works well with streamings services. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
7. Atlas VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.atlasvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Atlas VPN swiftly removed its servers from India shortly after the government announced its new legislation. Unfortunately, it hasn’t yet introduced virtual replacements, though you can still choose from more than 750 servers in 45 other countries. With extremely high speeds, no connection limit, and the ability to stream Disney+, HBO Max, and more, this VPN certainly has plenty to offer.
It fares very well on privacy too. That’s because Atlas VPN keeps no logs, prevents DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and secures your traffic with 256-bit encryption. There are also specific servers that’ll change your IP address periodically, and a built-in breach monitor that’ll let you know the moment your account details are leaked online. Finally, this provider offers free 24/7 live chat just in case you run into trouble.
Atlas VPN has its own iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows apps.
Pros:
- Good set of security tools
- Fast and reliable speeds
- Real streaming potential
Cons:
- No virtual Indian servers
- Doesn’t work with routers or Linux
Our score:
SECURE AND VERSATILE:Atlas VPN allows you to browse safely from India because it keeps no logs, boasts a powerful security toolkit, and delivers some of the highest speeds around. Best of all, this VPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Atlas VPN.
How to use a VPN in India
Even if you’ve never used a VPN before, don’t worry; it’s easier than you might think. Simply follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be browsing securely in no time.
Here’s how to use a VPN in India.
- Begin by signing up for one of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN though Surfshark and ExpressVPN are great choices too).
- Download and install the app on your preferred device.
- Sign in and connect to a server in the location you your choice. For example, a server in India to gain an Indian IP address or a server in the US to access American content.
- That’s all there is to it! Your traffic is now encrypted, and you can safely browse content from the new location.
- If you’re still struggling to access restricted content, try clearing your cookies and cache before reloading the page.
Finding the best VPNs for India: our methodology
When it comes to VPNs, there’s plenty of competition on the market. However, not all VPNs provide the same level of service. As part of our methodology, we looked for the VPNs we recommend to meet the following criteria:
- Server locations: There may be times when you wish to connect to a server in your home country, in India, or in another part of the world. Whatever the case, a VPN should offer a global network of servers to offer you the most flexibility.
- Speed: Our speed tests have identified only the fastest VPNs so you can continue to browse, stream, and torrent as normal. All of these VPNs offer unlimited bandwidth. As such, you may even enjoy improved connection speeds in some cases. This is particularly the case if you’re currently suffering from ISP throttling.
- Unblocking: The unblocking ability of VPNs varies greatly, which is why we test each VPN against a wide range of websites and services. In particular, we try them with a lot of popular streaming services, many of which actively block VPN use. The VPNs listed in this post all offer the most consistency when it comes to bypassing restrictions.
- Security: A VPN should keep you safe at all times, even if you’re connecting to less-than-safe public wifi networks. Essential security features that we look for in a VPN include encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Need more than this? Look for a VPN with Double VPN servers that encrypt your internet traffic twice.
- Privacy: Aside from strong security, a VPN is supposed to protect your privacy. This comes first and foremost with encryption and then the operating of a strict no-logs policy. We’ve studied 140 VPN logging policies to find those you can trust – especially when browsing in India.
- Ease of use: One of the benefits of testing so many VPNs is that we are able to find out just how user-friendly their apps actually are. We only choose VPNs that allow you to connect to a server in a matter of seconds. Another key feature is that each VPN provides 24/7 support, available via live chat and email.
- Value for money: Just because a VPN offers all the above shouldn’t;t make it unaffordable. All of the best VPNs for India include risk-free money-back guarantees, while you can save even more with our VPN discount coupons.
We personally test all of these VPNs to ensure they meet this criteria. This involves plenty of hands-on time with each VPN, carrying out tests related to speed, security, and unblocking content. If you would like to know more about how we conduct our VPN research and analysis, you can take a look at our full VPN testing and ranking methodology.
India VPN FAQs
Can I use a free VPN for India?
Free VPN services aren’t hard to find – a cursory search on Reddit or Google will result in a plethora of options. However, our recommendation is to avoid these traps. Such services are in the business of making money, too – so while the product may come across as free, it isn’t nearly as simple as that.
When you log on to a free VPN, you’ll be bombarded with spammy referral links and tons of invasive advertisements. You run the real risk of contracting a malware infection that can lead to data loss and/or machine corruption. And in some cases, free VPN providers have been caught mining their users’ data and selling it to third-party companies. That belies the whole notion of surfing the web securely and privately.
Are VPNs legal in India?
VPNs are not explicitly banned in India, and citizens can easily find and install VPN apps directly from their preferred app store. Having said that, the government has introduced new rules requiring VPN providers to keep logs that would compromise their users’ anonymity. For this reason, most major providers have stopped hosting servers in India itself.
Additionally, in at least one instance, the government has completely prevented users from accessing the Google Play Store specifically because of how easy it was for people to circumvent state-sanctioned blocking. For this reason, it would be wise to have a VPN app installed before visiting the country, just in case another round of censorship leaves you unable to contact friends and family.
How do I stream Indian TV abroad?
Many Indian TV services (such as Hotstar, SonyLIV, and JioCinema) are geo-restricted, meaning they can’t normally be accessed from outside of India. However, if you’re connected to an Indian VPN server, these platforms usually won’t be able to tell that you’re really located somewhere else and will allow you to watch.
If you’re having trouble unblocking a specific Indian streaming service, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. This clears any saved data and forces the platform to re-check your location rather. Failing this, you might want to ask your VPN provider directly whether it has specific servers that work with your chosen service.
Can I bypass the India porn ban with a VPN?
Local internet service providers in India have been ordered by the government to block 800+ adult-themed websites, including Pornhub. This decision hasn’t gone down well with citizens of the country, as they’re already voracious consumers of pornography. India is the third-largest source of web traffic to Pornhub, but authorities have determined that such content threatens the morality and decency of ordinary Indians.
To overcome these restrictions, people in India have to change their IP address to one in either Europe or North America. The VPNs recommended in this article can do exactly that. Simply sign up, download the apps, and choose a server from any major European or North American country. Once the connection has been established, you’ll be able to access whatever sites you want, regardless of government restrictions.
What is the future of Indian internet?
Advocacy and rights groups in India continue to work tirelessly to secure the future of the internet and ensure net neutrality. The rejection of Facebook’s Free Basics project was a watershed moment for such groups who argued that Zuckerberg was offering a watered-down version of the web that would eventually help his own company rather than assist ordinary Indians with access to digital skills and literacy.
Content blocking continues to exhibit an upward rise, with Facebook receiving the maximum number of requests from India to block content. Content related to government criticism, political opposition, LGBT issues, and satire has attracted the most significant crackdowns.
Until there’s a more concerted effort to promote freedom of speech, it’s likely that clampdowns on the internet will continue in India.
Do I need a VPN if I live in India?
There are a number of reasons why it’s important to use a VPN. This is the case whether you live in India or if you’re traveling abroad. For starters, some websites and services are geo-blocked, while others may be government-censored. Speaking of the Indian government, they carry out extensive online surveillance of internet users in the country. If you want to access all online content and do so anonymously, you’ll need to use a quality VPN service.
We have already established the two primary concerns in this matter – privacy and security. Whether you’re a local, expat or a visitor on business or otherwise, you’ll want as many local server locations as possible for a fast and reliable connection.