How to Call India from Singapore

Last updated: Feb 28, 2025
Written by: Circles.Life
5 minutes read
Directly Dial an Indian Number from Singapore
Cost of Calling India from Singapore
Saving Costs on Overseas Calling
Use International SIM Cards to Save on Calling Costs
Calling India from Singapore for Free
Making Video Calls to India
Quick Tips for Calling India from Singapore
Common Questions about Calling an Indian Number
Stay Connected with Ease
Staying connected has never been easier, and for those with ties between Singapore and India, knowing how to efficiently place a call can save both time and money. Whether you're catching up with family, handling business matters, or coordinating educational ventures, learning the best ways to call India is essential.
Did you know that Singapore is home to almost 750,000 individuals of Indian descent? With such strong connections between these two nations, understanding the India calling code and exploring cost-effective calling options is crucial. This blog will guide you through dialing, cost-saving tips, and ways to make hassle-free calls to India, including free options.
Directly Dial an Indian Number from Singapore
The simplest and most traditional method to call India is through direct dialing. The process differs depending on whether you're calling an Indian landline or a mobile number.
Steps to Directly Dial an Indian Landline
Here's how to make that call in just a few easy steps:
Start with the international access code – Dial 001, Singapore’s International Direct Dialing (IDD) code.
Enter India’s country code – India’s country code is 91.
Add the area code – Indian cities have specific area codes. For example, Delhi is 11, Mumbai is 22, and so on.
Dial the local number – Enter the India landline number, skipping any prefixes like 0.
Example: To call a Mumbai landline, dial 001 91 22 XXXXXXXX.
Steps to Directly Dial an Indian Mobile Number
For mobile numbers, the steps are similar, but easier.
Dial the international access code – 001.
Enter India’s country code – 91.
Dial the mobile number – Remember to skip the 0 at the beginning of the number.
Example: To call an Indian mobile number 09123 456789, you would dial 001 91 9123456789.
Cost of Calling India from Singapore
The cost of calling between Singapore and India varies depending on your telecom provider and calling method. You have several options to suit your budget.
Standard Rates: Calls usually range from SGD 0.10 to SGD 0.50 per minute. Providers like Singtel or StarHub often charge standard rates for international calls.
Promotional IDD Plans: Many providers offer discounted international calling rates. For instance, Circles.Life’s IDD 001 plan can help you save significantly.
VoIP Options: Apps like Skype or Zoom allow for internet-based calls, typically much cheaper than traditional methods.
Communication Apps: Platforms like WhatsApp and Viber make speaking to India cost-efficient or even free!
Saving Costs on Overseas Calling
International calls don't have to burn a hole in your pocket! Here are some hacks to help you save big while staying connected.
Use International Calling Cards: Available at convenience stores across Singapore, these offer affordable call rates to India.
Subscribe to IDD Plans: Providers like Singtel and StarHub offer competitive subscription plans for international calls.
Leverage Free Calling Apps: Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom significantly reduce calling costs when connected to Wi-Fi or a mobile data plan.
Use International SIM Cards to Save on Calling Costs
For frequent travelers or professionals shuttling between Singapore and India, international SIM or eSIM cards are a game-changer.
Benefits of International SIM and eSIM Cards
Save on roaming charges with local rates for international calls.
Get access to a consistent calling allowance in multiple countries.
Avoid network disruptions with pre-loaded credit.
International SIM and eSIM Plans in Singapore
Popular plans such as StarHub Traveller SIM or Airalo eSIM offer cost-effective solutions for staying connected while abroad. Compare these plans to find one that suits your calling and data needs.
Calling India from Singapore for Free
Wondering how to make free calls from Singapore to India? Digital tools are your best bet!
WhatsApp Calling to Indian Mobile Numbers
WhatsApp is a crowd-favourite communication app for Indian expats. With millions of users on the platform, it's quite likely that your contact in India uses WhatsApp too.
Steps to WhatsApp Call an Indian Number
Save the Indian contact number in the format +91 [number] in your phonebook.
Open WhatsApp and find the saved contact.
Tap the call icon (📞) to begin a voice call or the video camera icon (📹) for a video call.
Data Plans for Seamless WhatsApp Calls
Ensure you have a strong data connection for uninterrupted calls. Popular data plans from Circles.Life, StarHub, or Singtel offer stable internet connectivity in Singapore for as low as SGD 20/month.
Making Video Calls to India
For those long-distance moments that demand face-to-face interaction, video calls are the way to go. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet offer free or low-cost video calling options from Singapore to India. Use a reliable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to make the most of this feature.
Quick Tips for Calling India from Singapore
No matter how you choose to call, these quick tips will help you stay connected hassle-free.
Consider Time Zones
India is 2 hours and 30 minutes behind Singapore time. Be mindful of this difference to call at the right time.
Ensure Good Connectivity
Use a strong Wi-Fi network or mobile data plan to avoid call drops or poor audio quality, especially when using VoIP services.
Save Numbers in the Correct Format
Always save Indian phone numbers in the international format with a +91 prefix, followed by the number. Example: +91 9876543210.
Common Questions about Calling an Indian Number
Q1. How to Call an Indian Mobile Number from Singapore?
Dial 001, followed by 91 (India’s country code), and then the Indian mobile number without the prefix 0.
Q2. How Much Does It Cost to Call India from Singapore?
The cost ranges from SGD 0.10 to SGD 0.50 per minute, depending on your telecom provider and plan.
Q3. Can I Use Free Apps to Call India?
Yes, apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom allow free or low-cost calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Stay Connected with Ease
Making a call from Singapore to India has never been easier. Whether you're using direct dialing, modern apps, or international SIM cards, the options are abundant and tailored for all needs. With cost-effective solutions and free alternatives, staying connected with loved ones, colleagues, or clients in India is convenient and hassle-free.
Explore these methods and choose the one that works best for you. Don’t forget to save numbers in the correct format and ensure seamless connectivity with a reliable network provider—stay close even when you're miles apart!
Share
RECOMMENDED
Comparing Circles.Life vs Singtel vs StarHub? We break down their data plans, 5G coverage, roaming perks, pricing, and customer benefits to help you find the best mobile plan for your needs.
Explore the data roaming plans in Singapore & compare options from top providers. Discover why Circles Life’s Borderless Plan could be ideal for you.
To stay connected while traveling, there are three main options: using a travel eSIM, activating a roaming plan, or purchasing a local SIM card.

Want more?
Subscribe to our newsletter and get notifications when there’s more to read!
By submitting your details, you consent to us sending you promotional and marketing updates. Please read our Privacy Policy for more information.