Best VPN in India, the short answer: NordVPN is the best VPN in India for most people, thanks to its large network, virtual India server, audited no-logs policy and 2-year price of about ₹337 a month. Surfshark is the best cheap VPN with unlimited devices, ExpressVPN is great for travel and has a low renewal price, and Proton VPN has the best free plan. If you want a physical server inside India, Windscribe is one of the few left.
Picking a VPN in India is harder than it looks. Since the 2022 CERT-In rules, most big VPN brands pulled their physical servers out of India. Prices are shown in dollars or euros. And every review site seems to rank whichever VPN pays the highest commission.
So I kept this simple. I compared 7 VPNs that work in India using only facts from their official websites: India server options, prices converted to rupees, devices, refund windows, audits and jurisdiction. Then I added my honest take on who each one is for.
Best VPN in India: Comparison Table
| VPN | Best for | India server | Countries | Devices | Cheapest plan (per month) | Approx. in rupees | Money-back |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Best overall | Virtual (Indian IP) | 118 | 10 | US$3.49 (2-year) | ₹337 | 30 days |
| Surfshark | Best budget pick | Virtual (Indian IP) | 100 | Unlimited | US$2.49 (24-month) | ₹241 | 30 days |
| ExpressVPN | Best for travel | Virtual (Indian IP) | 113 | Up to 14 | US$2.99 (2-year) | ₹289 | 30 days |
| Proton VPN | Best free plan | Indian IP on paid plans | 140+ | 10 | US$3.49 (2-year) | ₹337 | 30 days |
| Private Internet Access | Cheapest long-term price in rupees | Virtual (Indian IP) | 104 | Unlimited | ₹150.08 (3 years + 3 months) | ₹150 | 30 days |
| Mullvad | Best for anonymity | No India server | – | 5 | €5 (flat) | ₹542 | 14 days |
| Windscribe | Physical India server | Physical (Mumbai) | 69+ | Unlimited | US$5.75 (yearly) | ₹556 | See its refund terms |
Sources: each VPN’s official homepage, pricing page and server pages, taken from each provider’s official India pricing page (October 2026). Rupee values are approximate at ₹96.61 per US dollar (FBIL reference rate, October 9, 2026) and about ₹108.5 per euro, before GST. PIA shows its prices in rupees.
How I Picked These VPNs
There are hundreds of VPN services out there, and most lists of the top 10 VPNs or best VPN sites recycle the same picks. I narrowed the best VPN services down to 7. If you only want a top 5 VPN shortlist, the first five on this list cover almost every need.
This guide does not include lab speed tests, so you will not find made-up Mbps numbers here. Speed depends heavily on your ISP, city and time of day anyway. Instead, I judged each VPN on things you can verify:
- India server option: does it give you an Indian IP, and is that server physical or virtual?
- Real cost in rupees: first-term price, upfront amount and renewal price.
- Privacy proof: independent no-logs audits and where the company is based.
- Devices: how many devices you can protect on one account.
- Refund window: how long you have to try it risk-free.
- Free option: is there a genuinely free plan, and what are its limits?
Then I added my own view on who should pick which VPN. Use the money-back guarantee to test speed on your own connection.
7 Best VPNs in India
1) NordVPN: Best Overall VPN in India
NordVPN is my top pick for most people in India. It has 7,100+ servers across 225+ locations, according to its homepage, and its support center says those servers are in 118 countries. It covers up to 10 devices on every plan.
After the CERT-In rules, NordVPN shut down its physical Indian servers. It later added one virtual India location, released on January 2, 2024, as per NordVPN’s support center. That gives you an Indian IP while the hardware sits outside India.
NordVPN is based in Panama. Its no-logs policy has been checked by Deloitte six times, with the latest assurance engagement completed in late 2025 and announced in February 2026.
| Detail | NordVPN |
|---|---|
| India server | Virtual location with Indian IP |
| Network | 7,100+ servers, 225+ locations, 118 countries |
| Devices | 10 |
| Jurisdiction | Panama |
| Audits | Deloitte no-logs assurance (sixth, late 2025) |
| Money-back | 30 days |
Key Features of NordVPN
- Specialty servers: Double VPN encrypts your traffic twice, Onion Over VPN connects you to the Onion network, obfuscated servers help on networks that block VPNs, and P2P servers are built for file sharing. You find them under “Specialty Servers” in the app.
- NordWhisper and obfuscation: NordVPN’s website mentions the NordWhisper protocol for restrictive networks, like strict office or hotel Wi-Fi.
- Threat Protection: blocks malicious sites, trackers and ads. The full antivirus version comes with the Complete plans.
- Dark Web Monitor: alerts you if your email turns up in a leak.
- Dedicated IP: included in Complete Max. Useful if your bank or client portal blocks shared VPN IPs.
- Router support: you can install NordVPN on a Wi-Fi router to cover every device at home.
Who should pick NordVPN: anyone who wants a reliable all-rounder, Indians travelling abroad who need an Indian IP, and people who want security tools bundled in one bill.
Pros of NordVPN
- Large server network with specialty servers (Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, obfuscated, P2P).
- Virtual India server for Indians abroad.
- Repeated independent no-logs audits.
- Post-quantum encryption and the NordLynx protocol.
- Complete plan bundles antivirus, a password manager and 1 TB of cloud storage.
Cons of NordVPN
- Prices shown in US dollars.
- Renewal price is much higher than the intro price.
- 10-device limit.
- Dedicated IP only on the top plan.
NordVPN Pricing in India
| Plan | 2-year (per month) | 2-year upfront (27 months) | 1-year (per month) | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | US$3.49 (about ₹337) | US$94.23 (about ₹9,104) | US$5.39 | US$14.69 |
| Complete | US$4.39 (about ₹424) | US$118.53 (about ₹11,452) | US$6.39 | US$19.49 |
| Complete Max | US$6.39 (about ₹617) | US$172.53 (about ₹16,669) | US$8.29 | US$21.49 |
Source: NordVPN pricing page, October 2026. “GST may apply”, per the page. Basic renews at US$139.08 a year.
My Verdict on NordVPN
If you want one VPN that does everything well and you do not want to overthink it, pick NordVPN Basic on the 2-year plan. I break down every plan in my full NordVPN price in India guide.
2) Surfshark: Best Budget VPN With Unlimited Devices
Surfshark is the best cheap VPN in India if you have a lot of devices. One account covers unlimited devices, so your whole family can use it. Surfshark’s homepage lists servers in 100 countries and says it uses RAM-only servers with a strict no-logs policy, which Deloitte audited in 2025.
For an Indian IP, Surfshark uses virtual India servers that are physically located in other countries, such as Singapore, the Netherlands and the UK.
| Detail | Surfshark |
|---|---|
| India server | Virtual (Indian IP) |
| Network | 100 countries |
| Devices | Unlimited |
| Audits | Deloitte no-logs audit (2025) |
| Money-back | 30 days |
Key Features of Surfshark
- Unlimited devices: one subscription covers every phone, laptop and TV in your home.
- Bypasser: Surfshark’s name for split tunneling. Let banking or UPI apps skip the VPN while everything else stays protected.
- Dynamic MultiHop: routes your traffic through two servers of your choice.
- Rotating IP: changes your IP address from time to time while you stay connected.
- Alternative ID: generates a masked email and alternative personal details for sign-ups.
- Ad and cookie pop-up blocker: cleans up browsing on cluttered websites.
- Antivirus, Alert and Incogni: available on the higher Surfshark One and One+ plans, as listed on its pricing page.
Who should pick Surfshark: families, students sharing an account across devices, and anyone who wants the cheapest big-name VPN.
Pros of Surfshark
- Cheapest 2-year price among the big names.
- Unlimited devices on one account.
- RAM-only servers.
- Extras like ad blocker, split tunneling (Bypasser) and Dynamic MultiHop.
- Higher plans add antivirus, leak alerts and data removal by Incogni.
Cons of Surfshark
- Prices in US dollars.
- Monthly plan is expensive.
- No physical India servers.
Surfshark Pricing in India
| Plan | 24-month (per month) | 24-month upfront (27 months) | 12-month (per month) | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | US$2.49 (about ₹241) | US$67.23 (about ₹6,495) | US$3.39 | US$16.45 |
| One | US$2.79 (about ₹270) | US$75.33 (about ₹7,278) | US$3.59 | US$18.95 |
| One+ | US$4.49 (about ₹434) | US$121.23 (about ₹11,713) | US$7.49 | US$21.85 |
Source: Surfshark pricing page, October 2026. VAT or local taxes may apply at checkout.
My Verdict on Surfshark
Surfshark Starter on the 24-month plan is the best value VPN for families and anyone with lots of devices. At about ₹241 a month, it is hard to beat.
3) ExpressVPN: Best VPN for Travel
ExpressVPN is a strong pick if you travel a lot. Its homepage lists servers in 113 countries and support for up to 14 devices on its top plan. For an Indian IP, it offers India locations served from Singapore and the UK.
ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands and had its privacy policy audited by KPMG in 2025. Its best feature for Indian buyers might be the renewal price: Basic renews at US$99.95 a year, lower than most rivals.
| Detail | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|
| India server | Virtual (India via Singapore and via UK) |
| Network | 113 countries |
| Devices | 10 (Basic), 12 (Advanced), 14 (Pro) |
| Jurisdiction | British Virgin Islands |
| Audits | KPMG (2025) |
| Money-back | 30 days for new users |
Key Features of ExpressVPN
- Lightway protocol: ExpressVPN’s own protocol, which it describes on its pricing page as cutting-edge.
- Plan tiers: Basic covers 10 devices, Advanced 12 and Pro 14. Pro includes a dedicated IP, while the lower tiers offer it as an add-on.
- ExpressKeys: ExpressVPN’s password manager, with passkey support.
- Private email relay: helps protect your inbox from spam and tracking.
- Router options: ExpressVPN supports routers, including its own router hardware.
- Two India locations: India via Singapore and India via UK, which gives you a backup if one is slow.
Who should pick ExpressVPN: frequent travellers, NRIs who need an Indian IP from abroad, and people who care about the long-term renewal price.
Pros of ExpressVPN
- Lowest renewal price among the big names.
- Two Indian IP options.
- Wide country coverage.
- Up to 14 devices on the Pro plan, with a dedicated IP.
Cons of ExpressVPN
- Monthly plan is expensive.
- Device limit depends on the plan.
- Prices in US dollars.
ExpressVPN Pricing in India
| Plan | 2-year (per month) | 2-year upfront (28 months) | 12-month (per month) | Monthly | Renews at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | US$2.99 (about ₹289) | US$83.72 (about ₹8,089) | US$4.99 | US$14.99 | US$99.95/year |
| Advanced | US$4.49 (about ₹434) | US$125.72 (about ₹12,146) | US$5.99 | US$16.99 | US$119.95/year |
| Pro | US$7.49 (about ₹724) | US$209.72 (about ₹20,262) | US$8.99 | US$22.99 | US$199.95/year |
Source: ExpressVPN pricing page, October 2026. Sales tax may be added at checkout.
My Verdict on ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN Basic is my pick if you care about what you will pay in year three, not just year one. It is also great for frequent travellers.
4) Proton VPN: Best Free VPN in India
Proton VPN is made by Proton, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail. Its pricing page lists 20,000+ servers in 140+ countries on paid plans. It had its no-logs policy audited by Securitum in 2025.
Proton’s free plan is the best free VPN I know of. It has no ads and no data cap, but it works on one device and connects you to servers in 10 countries chosen for you, according to Proton’s pricing page. Indian IP addresses are available only on paid plans, through Smart Routing from Singapore.
| Detail | Proton VPN |
|---|---|
| India server | Indian IP on paid plans (Smart Routing via Singapore) |
| Network | 20,000+ servers, 140+ countries |
| Devices | 10 on paid plans, 1 on free |
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland |
| Audits | Securitum no-logs audit (2025) |
| Money-back | 30 days |
Key Features of Proton VPN
- Free plan: no ads, unlimited data, one device and servers in 10 countries picked for you.
- NetShield ad-blocker: blocks ads and uses DNS filtering to protect you from malware.
- VPN Accelerator: Proton says this technology can boost VPN speeds by up to 400%.
- P2P support: for file sharing on paid plans.
- Open-source apps: anyone can inspect the code.
- Proton Unlimited: bundles Proton VPN with Proton Mail, Proton Drive encrypted storage, a password manager and dark web monitoring. If you mainly want cloud storage, compare it with Google storage plans in India first.
Who should pick Proton VPN: privacy-first users, people who want a free VPN they can trust, and anyone already using Proton Mail.
Pros of Proton VPN
- Genuinely free plan with unlimited data and no ads.
- Swiss jurisdiction and open-source apps.
- Huge server network on paid plans.
- Proton Unlimited bundles Mail, Drive and Pass.
Cons of Proton VPN
- Free plan: one device and no server choice.
- No Indian IP on the free plan.
- Prices in US dollars.
Proton VPN Pricing in India
| Plan | 2-year (per month) | 2-year upfront | 1-year (per month) | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| VPN Plus | US$3.49 (about ₹337) | US$83.76 (about ₹8,092) | US$4.49 | US$9.99 |
| Proton Unlimited | US$7.99 (about ₹772) | US$191.76 (about ₹18,527) | US$9.99 | US$12.99 |
Source: Proton VPN pricing page, October 2026.
My Verdict on Proton VPN
Start with Proton VPN Free if you only need a VPN now and then. If you need an Indian IP or more devices, VPN Plus is a fair upgrade.
5) Private Internet Access (PIA): Cheapest Long-Term VPN in Rupees
Private Internet Access, or PIA, is one of the few big VPNs that shows Indian visitors prices in rupees. Its long plan works out to just ₹150.08 a month. It allows unlimited devices, its apps are open source, and its homepage says it runs servers in 104 countries.
PIA moved its India servers to virtual locations hosted in Singapore in 2022. Its no-logs claims were checked by Deloitte, in an assessment concluded in January 2024.
| Detail | PIA |
|---|---|
| India server | Virtual (Indian IP, hosted in Singapore) |
| Network | 104 countries |
| Devices | Unlimited |
| Audits | Deloitte (concluded January 2024) |
| Money-back | 30 days for new subscribers |
Key Features of PIA
- Rupee pricing: one of the few big VPNs that shows prices in INR to Indian visitors.
- Unlimited devices: one subscription, as many devices as you like.
- Open source: PIA publishes its app code publicly.
- WireGuard and OpenVPN: two widely used open-source protocols, according to PIA’s homepage.
- NextGen servers: PIA’s server network spans 104 countries.
- Android APK option: PIA lets you download its Android app file directly, as well as from Google Play.
Who should pick PIA: budget-focused users who are happy to commit for three years and want unlimited devices.
Pros of PIA
- Prices shown in rupees.
- Cheapest long-term price on this list.
- Unlimited devices.
- Open-source apps and RAM-only servers.
Cons of PIA
- Best price needs a 3-year commitment.
- Monthly plan is expensive.
- Older audit than NordVPN or Surfshark.
PIA Pricing in India
| Plan | Per month | Billed |
|---|---|---|
| 3 years + 3 months | ₹150.08 | ₹5,853 for the first 39 months, then every 3 years |
| 1 year | ₹299 | ₹3,588 per year |
| Monthly | ₹900.79 | Every month |
Source: PIA pricing page, October 2026.
My Verdict on PIA
If you want the cheapest VPN in India in plain rupees and you are happy to commit long-term, PIA is the one. ₹5,853 for 39 months is very low.
6) Mullvad: Best VPN for Anonymity
Mullvad is the VPN for people who care about privacy above everything else. You do not need an email to sign up. Mullvad gives you a random account number. It even accepts cash sent by post, along with cards, PayPal and crypto, according to its pricing page.
Mullvad is based in Sweden and has one flat price. The trade-off: it removed its physical India servers in 2022, so you cannot get an Indian IP. It also covers only 5 devices.
| Detail | Mullvad |
|---|---|
| India server | None |
| Devices | 5 |
| Jurisdiction | Sweden |
| Sign-up | Account number, no email needed |
| Money-back | 14 days (not for cash payments) |
Key Features of Mullvad
- Account number sign-up: Mullvad generates an account number for you. No email, no name.
- Cash payments: you can post cash with a payment token, according to Mullvad’s pricing page. It also accepts Bitcoin, Monero, cards, PayPal and bank wire.
- Flat pricing: €5 a month, no intro discounts, no renewal jump.
- Mullvad Browser: a privacy browser developed with the Tor Project. It is free for everyone, even if you do not use Mullvad VPN.
- Open source: Mullvad’s apps are open source.
Who should pick Mullvad: journalists, privacy enthusiasts and anyone who wants as little personal data as possible linked to their VPN.
Pros of Mullvad
- No email or personal details needed.
- One flat price, no renewal surprises.
- Accepts cash and crypto.
- Open-source apps.
Cons of Mullvad
- No Indian IP.
- Only 5 devices.
- Shorter 14-day refund window.
- Priced in euros.
Mullvad Pricing in India
Mullvad charges €5 a month, about ₹542, including VAT, whether you pay monthly or for a longer period, according to its pricing page. There is no discount for long plans and no free plan.
My Verdict on Mullvad
Pick Mullvad if anonymity is your top priority and you do not need an Indian IP. For most people, NordVPN or Proton is the more practical choice.
7) Windscribe: Best VPN With a Physical India Server
Windscribe is one of the few VPNs that still says it runs real servers in India. Its homepage claims “69+ countries, 135+ cities, and not a single virtual server”, and its Mumbai server page says it will not comply with the logging directive. It also has one of the most generous free plans, with 10 GB a month once you confirm your email.
Windscribe Pro allows unlimited connections. You can also build your own plan by paying per location.
| Detail | Windscribe |
|---|---|
| India server | Physical (Mumbai) |
| Network | 69+ countries, 135+ cities (homepage) |
| Devices | Unlimited on Pro |
| Free plan | 10 GB a month with confirmed email |
Key Features of Windscribe
- Real servers: Windscribe says it does not use virtual servers and runs on RAM disk infrastructure that stores no identifying data.
- Physical Mumbai server: rare among big VPNs after 2022.
- R.O.B.E.R.T.: Windscribe’s customisable blocker for ads, trackers and malicious domains.
- Split tunneling: pick which apps and websites use the VPN.
- Static IP and Config Generator: options for advanced users who need a fixed IP or manual setups.
- Build-A-Plan: pay only for the locations you need, at US$1 per location per month.
Who should pick Windscribe: users who want a physical Indian server, and light users who can live with the 10 GB free plan.
Pros of Windscribe
- Physical India server in Mumbai.
- Strong free plan with 10 GB a month.
- Unlimited connections on Pro.
- Build-A-Plan option at US$1 per location per month.
Cons of Windscribe
- Smaller network than NordVPN or Surfshark.
- Monthly price is high.
- Physical India server may face more legal pressure in future.
Windscribe Pricing in India
| Plan | Price | Approx. in rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Free | US$0 (10 GB/month) | ₹0 |
| Pro, monthly | US$9 a month | ₹870 |
| Pro, yearly | US$69 a year (US$5.75 a month) | ₹6,666 a year |
| Build-A-Plan | US$1 per location per month | ₹97 per location |
Source: Windscribe pricing page, October 2026.
My Verdict on Windscribe
If you specifically need a physical Indian server, Windscribe is the pick. The free plan is also great for light use.
NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: Head-to-Head
These three are the VPNs most Indians end up choosing between. Here is how they compare on the points that matter most, using their official pages.
| Factor | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheapest plan per month | US$3.49 (about ₹337) | US$2.49 (about ₹241) | US$2.99 (about ₹289) |
| Upfront on cheapest plan | US$94.23 for 27 months | US$67.23 for 27 months | US$83.72 for 28 months |
| Basic renewal per year | US$139.08 | Check checkout page | US$99.95 |
| Devices | 10 | Unlimited | 10 to 14 by plan |
| India option | One virtual location | Virtual locations | India via Singapore, India via UK |
| Countries | 118 | 100 | 113 |
| Latest audit | Deloitte, late 2025 | Deloitte, 2025 | KPMG, 2025 |
| Jurisdiction | Panama | Netherlands | British Virgin Islands |
My take:
- Pick NordVPN if you want the most complete package and the biggest network.
- Pick Surfshark if you want to protect many devices for the least money.
- Pick ExpressVPN if you travel a lot or care most about the renewal price.
All three have a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try one and switch if it does not suit you.
VPNs I Left Out (and Why)
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a popular VPN, and people often search for CyberGhost VPN reviews or just “cyber VPN”. Its Google Play listing in India shows a 3.4-star rating from about 1.7 lakh reviews and over 1 crore downloads, and the listing mentions a 3-day free trial and servers in 100 countries.
I left it out of the main list for one simple reason: its official pricing page could not be loaded from India when this guide was prepared, so its current prices could not be confirmed. Every VPN in the main list has prices taken from its official pricing page. If you are considering CyberGhost, check the price on its official site and use the refund window to test it.
Atlas VPN (Discontinued)
Atlas VPN used to be a popular cheap VPN with big Black Friday deals. It has been discontinued. According to Atlas VPN’s own help center, the service shut down in April 2024, and paid subscribers were moved to NordVPN for the rest of their subscription. So if you see an “Atlas VPN Black Friday sale” today, ignore it. It is either an old page or a scam.
Random Free VPN Apps
Search “VPN” on the Play Store and you will find hundreds of free apps with lakhs of downloads and no clear company behind them. I avoid these. Running VPN servers costs money, so a free app with no paid plan has to make money somewhere, often from ads or your data. Stick to free plans from known paid providers, like Proton VPN Free or Windscribe Free.
My VPN Recommendations by Use Case
| What you need | My pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall | NordVPN | Big network, virtual India server, repeated audits |
| Cheapest with unlimited devices | Surfshark | About ₹241 a month on the 24-month plan |
| Lowest price in rupees | PIA | ₹150.08 a month on the 3-year plan |
| Frequent travel | ExpressVPN | 113 countries, two Indian IP options, low renewal |
| Free VPN | Proton VPN Free | No ads, no data cap |
| Physical India server | Windscribe | Mumbai server, free 10 GB plan |
| Maximum anonymity | Mullvad | No email, accepts cash |
| Indian IP while abroad | NordVPN or ExpressVPN | Reliable virtual India locations |
| Family with many devices | Surfshark or PIA | Unlimited devices |
Cheapest VPN in India: Price Ranking
If price is your main filter, here is how the cheapest plan of each VPN compares per month, from the official pricing pages.
| Rank | VPN and plan | Per month (approx.) | Upfront (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PIA, 3 years + 3 months | ₹150 | ₹5,853 |
| 2 | Surfshark Starter, 24 months + 3 | ₹241 | ₹6,495 |
| 3 | ExpressVPN Basic, 2 years + 4 months | ₹289 | ₹8,089 |
| 4 | NordVPN Basic, 2 years + 3 months | ₹337 | ₹9,104 |
| 5 | Proton VPN Plus, 2 years | ₹337 | ₹8,092 |
| 6 | Mullvad, flat | ₹542 | ₹542 a month |
| 7 | Windscribe Pro, yearly | ₹556 | ₹6,666 |
Rupee values are approximate, before GST. PIA’s prices are shown in rupees on its site.
A few things to keep in mind when you shop for a cheap VPN in India:
- The lowest monthly number always needs the longest commitment. Look at the upfront amount too.
- Check the renewal price. ExpressVPN Basic renews at US$99.95 a year, while NordVPN Basic renews at US$139.08.
- Cheap is not the same as good. A VPN that leaks your data is expensive at any price.
My pick for the best cheap VPN in India is Surfshark Starter. It balances a low price with unlimited devices and a recent audit. If you want the absolute cheapest and are happy to commit for three years, go with PIA.
Best Free VPN in India
You can use a VPN for free in India, but free plans come with limits. Here are the only two free VPNs I am comfortable recommending:
| Free VPN | Data limit | Devices | Server choice | Indian IP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN Free | Unlimited | 1 | 10 countries, chosen for you | No |
| Windscribe Free | 10 GB a month with confirmed email | Check plan page | Limited locations | Check the app |
Sources: Proton VPN and Windscribe pricing pages, October 2026.
My take: a free VPN is fine for occasional use, like checking how a website looks from another country. For daily use, public Wi-Fi or anything involving money, pay for a VPN. Even the cheapest paid plan on this list costs less than ₹10 a day.
VPN Price in India: What Does a VPN Subscription Really Cost?
Most VPNs sell three kinds of subscriptions. Here is what each typically costs in India, based on the official prices above:
| Subscription length | Typical cost per month | Who it is for |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | ₹540 to ₹2,000+ | Short trips, one-off needs |
| 1 year | ₹300 to ₹800 | People who want to try for a year |
| 2 to 3 years | ₹150 to ₹450 for VPN-only plans | Anyone who uses a VPN regularly |
The pattern is clear. A VPN subscription is cheapest per month when you commit longer. For most providers, the monthly plan costs three to seven times more per month than the longest plan.
Also note:
- Most VPNs charge in US dollars. Your bank converts it and may add a forex fee.
- GST may be added. NordVPN’s page says “GST may apply” for India, and other providers mention taxes at checkout.
- Renewal prices are higher. The first-term price is an intro deal.
VPN Deals in India: When to Buy
VPN deals in India follow the global sales calendar. The biggest discounts usually show up around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and some providers run new year or anniversary sales.
But here is the thing: most top VPN services already run a permanent “deal” on their 2-year plans. NordVPN adds 3 extra months, Surfshark adds 3 extra months, and ExpressVPN adds 4 extra months to their 2-year plans, as per their pricing pages. So if you need a VPN today, do not wait months for a sale that might save you a few hundred rupees.
My rule for VPN deals:
- Buy only on the official website.
- Compare the upfront amount, not just the per-month price.
- Ignore “lifetime VPN” deals from unknown brands. Services that promise a lifetime for a one-time fee often shut down or get sold.
Why Most VPNs Left India in 2022
On April 28, 2022, CERT-In issued new cybersecurity directions. One part asked VPN service providers to collect and store customer details, such as validated names, contact details and the IP addresses assigned to users, for five years.
For VPN companies that sell themselves on not keeping logs, this was a problem. Storing that data would break the core promise of their product. So several major providers, including NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, PIA and Mullvad, pulled their physical servers out of India in 2022, according to their own announcements and support pages.
Most of them replaced those servers with virtual India locations. That keeps the Indian IP address available for users, without keeping hardware or data inside India.
For you as a user, the result is simple: you can still get an Indian IP from most top VPNs, and using a VPN is still legal. The servers just sit in places like Singapore or the UK.
Which VPNs Have Servers in India?
This is the most confusing part of buying a VPN in India. After CERT-In’s 2022 directions asked VPN providers to store user data for five years, most big VPNs removed their physical servers from India. Here is where each one stands, based on their official pages:
| VPN | India server type | Details |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Virtual | One virtual India location since January 2, 2024 |
| Surfshark | Virtual | Indian IPs served from servers in other countries |
| ExpressVPN | Virtual | India via Singapore and India via UK |
| Proton VPN | Virtual (paid plans) | Indian IP through Smart Routing from Singapore |
| PIA | Virtual | Virtual India servers hosted in Singapore since 2022 |
| Mullvad | None | Removed Indian servers in 2022 |
| Windscribe | Physical | Mumbai server, per Windscribe’s site |
Virtual vs Physical India Servers
A virtual server gives you an Indian IP address, but the hardware is in another country. Websites and apps see you as being in India. Your data does not pass through a server on Indian soil.
A physical server is located inside India. It may give slightly lower latency for Indian users, but it is subject to Indian rules.
For most people, a virtual India server is good enough. It lets you access Indian banking, UPI and OTT apps when you are abroad.
Do You Even Need an India Server?
If you are in India, you usually do not need an Indian server. You are already in India. You need one only when you are abroad and want an Indian IP. If you are in India and want privacy on public Wi-Fi, connect to the nearest server, often Singapore or the UAE, for better speed.
Is Using a VPN Legal in India?
Yes. Using a VPN is legal in India.
In April 2022, CERT-In (the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) issued directions that require VPN service providers to keep subscriber records, such as names, addresses and IP addresses, for five years. CERT-In’s FAQs, released in May 2022, clarified that these rules apply to VPN service providers, not to individual users or enterprise VPNs.
So you can legally use a VPN in India. But a VPN does not make illegal activity legal. Downloading pirated content, accessing banned material or committing fraud is still illegal, with or without a VPN.
Use of VPN in India: Common Legit Reasons
- Protecting your data on public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and railway stations.
- Accessing Indian apps and websites when you travel abroad.
- Working securely with client accounts as a freelancer.
- Keeping your browsing private from your ISP.
- Checking how websites, search results and ads look in other countries, which is common in SEO and digital marketing.
Some people also use a VPN to access apps that are blocked in India. That comes with legal and safety risks. I covered those risks in detail in my guide to CapCut in India.
Using a VPN for Indian Banking and UPI When You Are Abroad
This is one of the most practical reasons Indians buy a VPN. Some Indian banking, UPI, OTT and government websites limit access from foreign IP addresses. When you travel abroad, a VPN with an Indian IP can help you use them as if you were at home.
How to do it:
- Pick an India VPN, meaning a VPN with an India location: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, PIA, Windscribe or a paid Proton VPN plan.
- Install and log in before you leave India, in case the VPN website is hard to reach from your destination.
- Connect to the India location and open your bank or OTT app.
- If an app still refuses to work, try a different India location (ExpressVPN has two) or clear the app’s cache.
A word of caution: some banking apps block all VPN connections for security reasons, even Indian IPs. In that case, disconnect the VPN, use mobile data and contact your bank. Never share your OTP or PIN with anyone, VPN or not.
VPN for Students, Freelancers and Small Businesses in India
Students: college and hostel Wi-Fi networks are shared by hundreds of people. A VPN encrypts your traffic so others on the network cannot snoop. Surfshark or PIA work well because one account can cover your laptop, phone and tablet. Always follow your college’s network rules.
Freelancers: if you log in to client dashboards, ad accounts or payment gateways from cafes and co-working spaces, a VPN is a basic safety step. NordVPN or ExpressVPN are good choices. If a client requires a fixed IP for access, look at NordVPN Complete Max or ExpressVPN Pro, which include a dedicated IP.
Small businesses: a consumer VPN protects individual devices. If your team needs shared access to internal systems, look at a business VPN or a zero-trust tool instead. For a small team that just wants safe browsing on the road, the best personal VPN plans with enough devices are fine.
How to Set Up a VPN on Windows, Mac and iPhone
Setting up a VPN takes a few minutes on any device:
Windows: Windows is still the most used desktop system in the world (see my Windows user statistics), and every VPN software on this list has a Windows app. Download it from the official site, install, log in and click connect. Turn on the kill switch in settings. If you want the best VPN software for a laptop, my pick for the best VPN for PC in India is NordVPN, for its kill switch, Threat Protection and specialty servers.
Mac: download the app from the official site or the Mac App Store, approve the VPN configuration when macOS asks, and connect.
iPhone and iPad: install the app from the App Store, log in, and allow iOS to add the VPN configuration. You will see a VPN icon in the status bar when connected.
Android: install from Google Play, log in, allow the connection request and turn on auto-connect for untrusted Wi-Fi.
How to Check If Your VPN Is Working
After you connect, run three quick checks:
- IP check: open any “what is my IP” website. It should show the VPN server’s location, not your city.
- DNS leak check: use a DNS leak test website. The results should show your VPN provider, not your ISP.
- Kill switch check: with the kill switch on, briefly disconnect your Wi-Fi. Your browser should not load pages through your real connection when the VPN drops.
If any check fails, switch the protocol in the app settings or contact the VPN’s support.
What a VPN Cannot Do
A VPN is useful, but it is not magic. Here is what it will not do:
- It will not make you anonymous if you are logged in to Google, Facebook or Instagram.
- It will not stop phishing on its own. Some VPNs add phishing protection, but you still need to be careful with links.
- It will not speed up your internet beyond your base plan.
- It will not make illegal activity legal in India or anywhere else.
- It will not protect a device that already has malware. Use an antivirus for that.
VPN vs Proxy vs Tor
| VPN | Proxy | Tor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Encrypts all device traffic | Yes | Usually no | Only Tor Browser traffic |
| Speed | Good | Good | Slow |
| Ease of use | Easy apps | Browser or app settings | Tor Browser |
| Cost | Free or paid | Often free | Free |
| Best for | Daily privacy and security | Quick location change | High anonymity needs |
For most people in India, a VPN is the right balance. A proxy changes your location but usually does not encrypt your traffic. Tor gives strong anonymity but is slow for daily use. Some VPNs, like NordVPN, offer Onion Over VPN servers if you want both.
VPN Refund Policies Compared
Every VPN on this list lets you try it before you fully commit. Here is how their guarantees compare, according to their official pages:
| VPN | Refund window | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 30 days | Full refund if you ask within 30 days of buying |
| Surfshark | 30 days | Applies to all plans |
| ExpressVPN | 30 days | For new users |
| Proton VPN | 30 days | Free plan also available |
| PIA | 30 days | For new subscribers |
| Mullvad | 14 days | Not available for cash payments |
| Windscribe | See its terms | Free plan lets you try first |
If you buy through Google Play or the App Store, the refund follows Google’s or Apple’s rules instead. Buying on the official website keeps things simpler.
VPN for Streaming in India
Many people want a VPN to watch shows that are not available in India. This guide does not include streaming tests, so here is what can be said honestly:
- Streaming platforms actively block VPN IP addresses, and what works changes week to week.
- Bigger VPNs with more servers tend to have more IPs to rotate through.
- Check the terms of your streaming service. Using a VPN to access a different library may break their rules even if it is not illegal.
- Use the refund window to test the exact service you care about before you commit to a long plan.
Is It Worth Paying for a VPN in India? My Opinion
I think a paid VPN is worth it if you do at least one of these regularly: work on public Wi-Fi, travel abroad, handle client or business accounts on the move, or care about keeping your browsing private from your ISP.
On a 2-year or 3-year plan, a good VPN costs about ₹150 to ₹340 a month. That is less than most OTT subscriptions. For that, you get encrypted connections on every device, an Indian IP when you are abroad and some peace of mind on networks you do not control.
If you only need a VPN a few times a year, do not pay. Use Proton VPN Free or Windscribe Free, and upgrade only when the limits start to annoy you.
Tips for Choosing the Best VPN in India
1) Start With Why You Need a VPN
Write down the one main reason you want a VPN. Public Wi-Fi safety, an Indian IP while abroad, privacy from your ISP, or streaming from another country each point to a different pick. If you need an Indian IP abroad, NordVPN or ExpressVPN make sense. If you want privacy above all, Mullvad or Proton VPN fit better.
2) Check the India Server Situation
If an Indian IP matters to you, confirm that the VPN offers one. Mullvad does not. Proton VPN offers one only on paid plans. Windscribe says it runs a physical Mumbai server, while most others use virtual India locations.
3) Compare the Total Price, Not the Headline Price
The big per-month number is only half the story. Compare the upfront payment, the number of months you get and the renewal price. A VPN that looks ₹50 cheaper a month can cost more in year three.
4) Look for Independent Audits
A no-logs promise is just marketing until someone checks it. NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, Proton VPN and PIA have all had independent audits by firms like Deloitte, KPMG or Securitum, according to their official sites.
5) Count Your Devices
Add up phones, laptops, tablets and smart TVs in your home. If it is more than 10, Surfshark, PIA and Windscribe Pro allow unlimited devices.
6) Use the Money-Back Guarantee
Every paid VPN on this list has a refund window: 30 days for most, 14 days for Mullvad. Use it. Test the VPN on your home Wi-Fi and your mobile data, with the apps you care about.
7) Know the Rules
VPN use is legal for individuals in India, but illegal activity is still illegal. Also check your office or college policy before you use a VPN on their network.
How to Buy a VPN in India: Step by Step
Here is how to purchase a VPN subscription in India without mistakes:
- Pick your VPN from the list above based on your main use case.
- Go to the official website. Type the address yourself. Do not click random ads.
- Choose the plan length. For regular use, the 2-year or 3-year plan is the cheapest per month.
- Choose the plan tier. For most people, the basic VPN-only tier is enough.
- Enable international payments on your card if the price is in dollars or euros.
- Check the final total at checkout, including GST or other taxes.
- Pay and create your account. Save the receipt email.
- Turn off auto-renew right away, then decide again before renewal.
- Install the app on your devices and connect.
Payment Options for VPNs in India
Most VPNs accept international credit and debit cards and PayPal. Some, like NordVPN, also list Google Pay, Apple Pay and app store billing. Mullvad even accepts cash by post. UPI is rarely offered directly on VPN websites, so check the checkout page of your chosen VPN. If your card fails, buying through Google Play on Android is often the easiest workaround.
Best VPN for Android in India
Most Indians will use their VPN mainly on an Android phone. All seven VPNs on this list have official Android apps. A few tips for choosing the best VPN for Android in India:
- Download only from Google Play and check the developer name.
- Look for auto-connect so the VPN switches on when you join an unknown Wi-Fi network.
- Use split tunneling where available, so banking or UPI apps can bypass the VPN if they act up. Surfshark calls this Bypasser.
- Watch your battery and data. A VPN uses a little extra of both.
- Avoid unknown free VPN apps with vague privacy policies.
My picks for Android: NordVPN for overall use, Surfshark if you want to cover the whole family’s phones, and Proton VPN Free if you want a free option.
Fastest VPN in India: What Actually Affects Speed
This guide does not include speed tests, and I am wary of any “fastest VPN in India” claim that does not show its test setup. Speed depends on factors that change from person to person:
- Distance to the server. From India, nearby servers like Singapore or the UAE are usually faster than the US.
- Protocol. Modern protocols like WireGuard (NordLynx in NordVPN) are generally faster than older ones.
- Server load. A crowded server slows down. Switch servers if speed drops.
- Your own internet plan. A VPN cannot make your connection faster than your base speed.
The best way to find the fastest VPN in India for you is to test two VPNs within their refund windows and keep the faster one on your own connection.
Safest VPN in India
For safety, I look at three things: independent audits, jurisdiction and the company’s track record.
- NordVPN: six Deloitte no-logs assurance engagements, Panama jurisdiction.
- Proton VPN: Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps, Securitum no-logs audit in 2025.
- Mullvad: no email needed, accepts cash, Swedish jurisdiction.
- Surfshark: Deloitte audit in 2025 and RAM-only servers.
- ExpressVPN: KPMG audit in 2025 and British Virgin Islands jurisdiction.
My pick for the safest VPN in India is Proton VPN or NordVPN for most people, and Mullvad if you want maximum anonymity.
Why does this matter? Data leaks are common. My research on how many data breaches happen shows why you should not trust just any app with your traffic.
Best Paid VPN in India vs Free VPN
| Paid VPN | Free VPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ₹150 to ₹600 a month on long plans | ₹0 |
| Server choice | Full network | Limited or none |
| Indian IP | Usually yes | Usually no |
| Devices | 5 to unlimited | Often 1 |
| Data limit | None | Often capped |
| Privacy | Audited (top brands) | Varies a lot |
A free VPN from a trusted company like Proton is fine for light use. For daily use, the best paid VPN gives you better privacy, more servers and an Indian IP.
VPN Mistakes Indian Users Make
- Buying the monthly plan and keeping it for a year. You pay several times more.
- Ignoring the renewal price. It can be two to three times the intro price.
- Paying for extras you will not use. Antivirus and password managers are nice, but not essential for everyone.
- Using unknown free VPN apps. Many have weak privacy policies.
- Leaving the VPN on for banking apps that block VPNs. Use split tunneling or disconnect.
- Thinking a VPN makes you anonymous. It hides your IP, but your Google account, cookies and social logins still identify you. Private search engines help too. See my DuckDuckGo usage stats for how many people now search privately.
VPN Terms Explained
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): a service that encrypts your connection and routes it through another server.
- No-logs policy: a promise not to record what you do online.
- Audit: an independent check of a VPN’s privacy claims.
- Virtual server: a server that gives you an IP from one country while the hardware sits in another.
- Kill switch: a feature that blocks your internet if the VPN drops.
- Split tunneling: lets some apps bypass the VPN.
- Dedicated IP: an IP address only you use.
- Obfuscation: makes VPN traffic look like normal traffic on networks that block VPNs.
Why Should You Trust Me?
I am Jitendra Vaswani, an SEO consultant with 12 years in search. I founded the digital marketing agency Digiexe and AffiliateBooster, and I am an author and international speaker.
As an international speaker, I often work from airports, hotels and conference venues, which is exactly where a VPN matters. Prices below are from each provider’s official India pricing page, server claims and audits come from each VPN’s official website (October 2026), and rupee values use the official FBIL reference rate. Anything that could not be confirmed on an official page, like CyberGhost’s current pricing, is left out instead of guessed.
Conclusion
The best VPN in India for most people, and the best VPN provider to start with, is NordVPN. If you just want the best VPN to buy today without more research, buy it. It has a huge network, a virtual India server, repeated audits and a 2-year price of about ₹337 a month.
If you want something cheaper, Surfshark at about ₹241 a month covers unlimited devices, and PIA at ₹150.08 a month is the lowest price in rupees. ExpressVPN is great for travellers and renews cheaper. Proton VPN Free is the best free VPN, Mullvad is the most anonymous, and Windscribe is the pick if you want a physical India server.
Whichever you choose, buy from the official site, pick a long plan, switch off auto-renew and use the refund window to test it on your own connection.
FAQs
Which VPN is best in India?
NordVPN is the best VPN in India for most people, thanks to its large network, virtual India server, independent audits and 2-year price of about ₹337 a month. Surfshark is the best budget pick, and Proton VPN has the best free plan.
Which VPN works in India?
Any VPN that works in India needs apps that install and connect normally here. All seven VPNs in this guide work in India: NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, Proton VPN, PIA, Mullvad and Windscribe. You can install their apps and connect to servers abroad from India.
What is the cheapest VPN in India?
Among the trusted VPNs on this list, PIA is the cheapest at ₹150.08 a month on its 3-years-plus-3-months plan, billed ₹5,853 upfront. Surfshark Starter is next at about ₹241 a month on its 24-month plan.
Is VPN legal in India?
Yes. Using a VPN is legal for individuals in India. CERT-In’s 2022 directions apply to VPN service providers, not to users. Illegal activity remains illegal with a VPN.
Which VPN has servers in India?
Windscribe says it runs a physical server in Mumbai. NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, PIA and paid Proton VPN plans offer virtual India locations that give you an Indian IP from servers outside India. Mullvad has no India server.
What is the VPN price in India?
Trusted VPNs cost about ₹150 to ₹450 a month on 2- or 3-year VPN-only plans, and roughly ₹540 to ₹2,000 a month on monthly plans. Most are billed in US dollars, so GST and bank forex fees may be added.
Is there a good free VPN in India?
Yes. Proton VPN Free has no ads and no data cap, but works on one device and does not offer an Indian IP. Windscribe Free gives you 10 GB a month after you confirm your email.
Which is the best VPN app for Android in India?
NordVPN is my top pick for Android, Surfshark is best for covering many family phones, and Proton VPN Free is the best free Android VPN.
Which VPN is the fastest in India?
Speed depends on your ISP, location and the server you pick. This guide does not include speed tests. Use VPNs with modern protocols like WireGuard, connect to nearby servers such as Singapore, and test two VPNs within their refund windows.
Which VPN is safest in India?
NordVPN and Proton VPN are the safest choices for most people, with independent no-logs audits and privacy-friendly jurisdictions. Mullvad is the best for anonymity because it needs no email and accepts cash.
Can I get an Indian IP address with a VPN?
Yes. NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, PIA and paid Proton VPN plans offer Indian IPs through virtual locations, and Windscribe offers a physical Mumbai server.
How much does a VPN cost per month in India?
On long plans, trusted VPNs cost about ₹150 (PIA) to ₹340 (NordVPN or Proton VPN Plus) a month. Monthly plans without a long commitment cost about ₹540 (Mullvad) to over ₹1,400 (NordVPN or ExpressVPN).
Can I pay for a VPN with UPI in India?
Most VPN websites do not offer UPI directly. They accept international cards, PayPal and sometimes Google Pay or app store billing. If you want to pay through your Play account, buy the VPN inside its Android app using Google Play billing.
Do I need a VPN in India?
You do not need a VPN for normal browsing at home. It is useful on public Wi-Fi, when travelling abroad, when working with client accounts or when you want privacy from your ISP.
Does a VPN slow down the internet?
A VPN adds some overhead because your traffic is encrypted and travels to another server. Choosing a nearby server and a modern protocol like WireGuard keeps the slowdown small.
Can I use one VPN subscription on multiple devices?
Yes. NordVPN and Proton VPN allow 10 devices, ExpressVPN 10 to 14 depending on the plan, Mullvad 5, and Surfshark, PIA and Windscribe Pro allow unlimited devices.
Which VPN is best for the Indian server?
Windscribe is the pick if you want a physical server in India (Mumbai). For a reliable Indian IP from a virtual location, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are my top choices.
Is Atlas VPN still available?
No. Atlas VPN shut down in April 2024, and its paid users were moved to NordVPN, according to Atlas VPN’s help center.
Jitendra Vaswani is a well-known expert in SEO and AI-driven digital marketing. He has spoken at international events and founded Digiexe, a digital marketing agency, and AffiliateBooster, WordPress plugin designed specifically for affiliate marketers. With over 10 years of experience, Jitendra has helped many businesses succeed online. His bestselling book, Inside A Hustler’s Brain: In Pursuit of Financial Freedom, with over 20,000 copies sold globally, underscores his influence and commitment to empowering digital marketers.
