One of the biggest concerns while traveling to China is internet access and connectivity. Unlike most countries, China operates behind a highly controlled internet system known as the Great Firewall.
This system restricts access to many global apps and services such as WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and even Google Maps. As a result, staying connected with the outside world requires a bit of planning in advance.
Most travelers typically rely on either a local SIM card with a VPN or an international eSIM that comes with an inbuilt VPN to bypass these restrictions and access global apps.
In my case, I chose to get an eSIM from Trip.com. The plan included:
- 30 days validity
- 1 GB data per day
- Cost: approximately INR 1300
- Built-in VPN functionality
This made the setup extremely convenient, as I didn’t have to install or configure a separate VPN.
In terms of performance, the internet speed was on the slower side, but it was reliable enough to manage all essential tasks. I was able to:
- Use AMaps for navigation
- Browse and research using DeepSeek/Chatgpt
- Book cabs via DiDi
- Manage bookings for trains, stays, activities, and tickets on Trip.com
However, the limitation was noticeable when using heavier apps like Instagram. Instagram would often lag, keep loading, or get stuck, making it difficult to use smoothly.
So while the setup worked perfectly for navigation, bookings, and communication, it wasn’t ideal for content-heavy usage like uploading or browsing on social media.
China Travel FAQs
Do Indians need a visa for China?
Yes. Indian passport holders need a tourist (L) visa before travel; there is no visa on arrival. You fill in the online form and submit your passport and documents at the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre that covers your state. Expect to show your itinerary, bookings and bank statements. My first application was rejected without a reason and approved when I reapplied with complete documents and an invitation letter, so don’t panic if that happens. Fees and timelines change, so check the visa centre’s website first. Read my full visa story →
How do you pay in China? Do foreign cards work?
Almost everything runs on QR payments through Alipay and WeChat Pay, from street vendors to big stores. Both apps let you link an international Visa or Mastercard; I used a forex card. Set them up and verify your passport before you fly. Small payments are usually free, and a fee of about 3% typically applies above ¥200. Keep a little cash in yuan as backup. See the apps to set up before you go →
Do I need a VPN in China? Will WhatsApp, Instagram and Google work?
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube are blocked on local Chinese networks. The easiest fix is a travel eSIM that routes your data outside China, so they work without a separate VPN. I used a 30-day Trip.com eSIM with 1 GB a day for about ₹1,300. It handled maps, bookings and messaging well but was slow for Instagram. If you plan to use a VPN app instead, install it before you arrive, and know that China officially permits only government-approved VPNs.
Is vegetarian food hard to find in China?
Outside the big cities, yes. Vegetarian and Indian restaurants exist in major cities but are pricey, and options thin out in national parks and the countryside. I carried instant poha, ready-to-eat meals, peanut butter, dry fruits and protein bars, and used the hot water dispensers you find almost everywhere. I rarely ate out and never went hungry. See exactly what I packed and ate →
Which apps should I download before going to China?
AMap for navigation, DiDi for cabs, Trip.com for trains and stays, Alipay and WeChat for payments, and Google Translate with the Chinese pack downloaded for offline use. Full list with setup tips →
