If you’re traveling to, or living in, India you may want to consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The Indian government has a history of online censorship, and even outright suppression, so it’s a good idea to set up a VPN while in India.
You can greatly enhance your security and bypass online censorship using a VPN. This makes it far easier to communicate, coordinate, and report anonymously, plus you’ll be able to access the whole internet, rather than just content showing the government in a positive light.
Choosing a VPN for India can be a difficult task, so we have reviewed the best VPN providers and created a ranked list of our top recommendations.
Below, we’ll cover each of the best VPNs for India in more detail, but if you haven’t got the time to read through the whole article, below 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. Easy to use apps. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark Best budget option. Offers strong unblocking ability, good speeds, and a sweeping range of security features. Allows you to connect all of your devices at once.
- ExpressVPN Fast servers and great security and privacy features. A solid choice but not the cheapest option on this list.
- CyberGhost Beginners’ choice with easy-to-use apps. A low-cost service with fast speeds and good security.
- IPVanish Budget network that owns their own servers. Favored by Kodi users and torrenters for their consistent speeds.
- Hotspot Shield Servers in 80 countries including India. Good speeds and unlimited bandwidth for streaming. 24/7 support and a password manager.
- PureVPN Offers detailed support documentation on how to overcome most state-imposed internet restrictions. Secure and reliable service.
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How to choose a VPN 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. 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.
- Value for money
- Not keeping usage logs
- Strong encryption parameters
- Speed and stability
- Suitable for torrenting
- Apps for Android and iOS
Best VPNs for India
Whether you’re just looking for a VPN to stream Indian TV abroad or you need more online security whilst in India, the VPNs in the list below can help. We’ve researched each VPN suitable for India and ranked our top 6 to help you choose the best provider for your needs.
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 has a strict “zero logs” policy, meaning it does not track user history under any circumstances. There’s no way to determine what sites users visit or how often they log on.
It also uses 256-bit AES encryption as standard and gives users the option of connecting to a DNS proxy.
There’s a bunch of other great features, too, such as double VPN, Tor over VPN, and anti-DDoS servers. It’s optimized for ultra-fast streaming and one subscription grants you access to six simultaneous VPN connections with device support for Windows, Mac OS, iOS, and Android.
The fact that NordVPN is registered in Panama means it’s not subject to any data retention laws forcing it to reveal user history. It’s possible to pay via Bitcoin, meaning paper trails are kept to a minimum.
Its commitment to blazing speed means it’s an excellent choice to unlock geo-restricted content on Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. There are also a couple of servers based in India, which means residents of the country can access local content even when abroad.
Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds for HD streaming
- Great option for torrenting and streaming
- Enjoy A high degree of anonymity with no logs and cryptocurrency payments
- Top-tier encryption standards with DNS leak protection
- Purpose-specific servers are available (streaming, torrenting, P2P etc.)
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android
Cons:
- Only able to select a server location down to the city level, but not a specific server
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR INDIA:NordVPN is our top choice. A solid performer in India. Great at unblocking geo-restricted content. 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 that has more than 3,200 servers in 60+ countries, India included. What’s more, it’s capable of unblocking all kinds of region-locked content, making it ideal for bypassing Indian internet censorship or simply accessing your usual streaming service while abroad. 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 an unblocking feature that’s designed for use in countries with particularly strict internet restrictions. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information
so you don’t have to worry about your activities being traced back to you. 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 user’s online privacy, and blazing fast speeds.
Like most VPN companies, Express is registered in a country that doesn’t force it to share data. In this case, it’s the British Virgin Islands where it’s completely out of the reach of authorities.
The VPN service is encrypted with 256-bit AES protection, and it keeps no traffic logs whatsoever other than the choice of server location, total amount of data transfer, and date (not time) of connection.
It’s also an excellent choice for unlocking geo-restricted content on Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. At the same time, it has server locations based in India itself, so accessing local content – like Hotstar – won’t be a problem if you’re a resident Indian who’s currently traveling abroad for leisure or work.
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 in this list
Our score:
TICKS ALL THE BOXES:ExpressVPN holds its own. A fast and reliable choice which confidently unblocks Indian content that is restricted. 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’s relatively inexpensive but doesn’t compromise on the essentials: a speedy connection and rigid encryption. The company has an internal policy of not storing any user data which will please privacy advocates.
Currently, the server count is around 7,000 to choose from and spread across 91 countries, including India. Local residents traveling abroad should be able to acquire an Indian IP address to unlock services and stream content from back home.
Its encryption standards are considered to be top-tier. Specifically, CyberGhost uses 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. There’s an internet kill switch included, too, which adds an additional layer of security.
CyberGhost unblocks services like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Hotstar with ease The provider supports both Android and iOS as well as PC, Linux, and MacOS.
Pros:
- Budget priced provider with impressive streaming speeds
- Strong encryption and solid privacy policy
- Kill switch on all apps and keeps no logs
- Easily unblocks a host of geo-restricted content
- Apps are easy to install and use – a good option for beginners
Cons:
- Could offer more control over advanced features
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.
It comes with 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol and accepts Bitcoin as a payment method. Further, both DNS leak protection and a VPN kill switch are included as standard options. 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. At the same time, it operates several servers in India which means users traveling out of the South Asian country can still access their favorite sports and entertainment shows.
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
Our score:
GOOD FOR TORRENTING:IPVanish offers strong privacy and security with a huge number of IPs and servers plus additional protection against DNS leaks. Struggles with Netflix. Popular with Kodi and torrent users. 30-day money back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. Hotspot Shield
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Hotspotshield.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.
Hotspot Shield has an impressive network of servers covering 80 countries in total. This includes India, making it ideal whether you’re browsing from home or traveling abroad. The good, consistent speeds provided combined with unlimited bandwidth makes this a highly suitable choice for streaming. In fact, Hotspot Shield works well with the likes of Amazon Prime Video and Hotstar.
With this VPN, you can expect all of the essential security features such as 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. However, there plenty of extras too including automatic wifi protection, a password manager, and spam call blocker. Notably, this VPN doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified. Furthermore, it offers 24/7 support which you can contact via live chat and email.
You can secure up to five devices at the same time with Hotspot Shield’s apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. A Chrome browser extension is also available. Wifi routers require manual configuration.
Pros:
- Servers available in 80 countries including India
- Stream Amazon Prime Video and Hotstar from anywhere
- Packed with security features including auto wifi protection
- Doesn’t keep identifying logs so you can stay anonymous online
Cons:
- No Firefox browser extension available
- Month-to-month plan is very expensive
Our score:
AUTO WIFI PROTECTION:Hotspot Shield servers cover 80 countries. Unlimited bandwidth and works with Hotstar. Includes 24/7 support and offers security with high-end encryption and auto wifi protection. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Hotspot Shield review.
7. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is one of the larger VPN services because of its gigantic user base and a plethora of server locations spread across the world.
Its services come with 256-bit encryption as standard as well as secure DNS and a VPN kill switch – meaning it’ll halt your traffic if the connection drops in order to prevent leakage of data. Hence, if you’re using the VPN to seed torrents or access sites prohibited in India, there’s still no way of having your identity exposed and potentially causing a legal quagmire.
Its privacy policy is clearly outlined on the front page of its site – there’s an explicit reference to the fact that they do not store any user data, meaning it’s impossible to determine what sites people are visiting or when they do so.
PureVPN is also a worthy choice if you’re planning on being out of the country for a few weeks. Its servers in India mean local content won’t be out of reach – which is normally the case if you try and access platforms like Hotstar from outside of India.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface with plenty of customization options
- Strong encryption, kill switch and stores no identifiable user data
- Operates servers in India, great for unblocking content while abroad
- Good streaming speeds
Cons:
- Getting connected occasionally took up to a minute during testing
- Overcoming the stigma of earlier bad press surrounding privacy
Our score:
Simple Interface:PureVPN has great speeds. Reliably unblocks international content that is restricted in India and has great privacy credentials. Lacks popular features. Includes 31-day money back guarantee.
Read our full review of PureVPN.
How to get an Indian IP address
It’s far easier than you might think to get an Indian IP address abroad. Below is a step-by-step guide.
Here’s how to get a real Indian IP address:
- 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 an Indian VPN server.
- That’s all there is to it! Your traffic is now encrypted and routed through a server in India, making it look like that’s where you’re browsing from.
India VPN FAQs
How do I stream Indian TV abroad?
Many Indian streaming 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 cookies and cache. 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 use a free VPN for India?
There’s always the possibility of searching for a free VPN service. Such software isn’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 reputable VPN apps directly from their preferred app store. Having said that, the government has previously restricted access to a variety of popular websites in the past. Additionally, in at least one instance, it 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 just in case another round of censorship leaves you unable to contact friends and family during a crisis.
Can I bypass the India porn ban with a VPN?
Local internet service providers in India have been ordered by the government to block 827 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.
But the Hindustan Times notes that 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.
How secure are Surfshark servers in India?
All of Surfshark’s servers are highly secure, including its servers in India. That’s because it uses 256-bit AES encryption to secure your internet traffic from hackers and snoopers. Further security features include protection from DNS leaks and a kill switch. Surfshark also has a strict no-logs policy that protects your personal data (and your privacy!). As a result, you can browse the web anonymously in India and avoid government surveillance.
Where in India does NordVPN have servers?
NordVPN is one of the largest VPN providers on the market. It has approximately 5,500 servers worldwide, over 30 of which are located in India. More specifically, NordVPN’s Indian servers are located in the cities of Chennai and Mumbai. This makes it very easy to get an Indian IP address and unblock geo-blocked content from the country while traveling abroad.
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.