This guide explains how to call India from any country, covering the country code, area codes, and the proper format for both landlines and mobile numbers.
India's International Dialing Code
The international country code for India is +91. All phone calls made to India from another country must begin with this code.
Understanding Indian Phone Number Formats
Indian phone numbers have a distinct structure that includes an area code (for landlines) or a mobile prefix. When dialing internationally, you must drop the leading zero from the domestic area code.
Landline Numbers: Consist of a 2-4 digit area code (STD code) and a 6-8 digit local number. The total length is typically 10 digits (excluding the country code).
Mobile Numbers: Are 10 digits long and do not have an area code. They start with a digit between 6 and 9.
For example, a landline number in Delhi written domestically as 011 1234 5678 becomes +91 11 1234 5678 when dialed from abroad. A mobile number like 98765 43210 is dialed as +91 98765 43210.
How to Call India from a Mobile Phone
Using a mobile phone is the most straightforward way to make an international call to India.
Steps for Mobile Dialing:
Open your phone's dialer and enter the
+symbol.Type India's country code: 91.
For a landline, enter the area code without the leading "0". For a mobile number, enter the 10-digit number directly.
Dial the remaining digits of the local number.
How to Call India from a Landline
When calling from a landline, you must use your country's international exit code.
Steps for Landline Dialing:
Dial your country's exit code (e.g., 011 for the US/Canada, 00 for the UK).
Dial India's country code: 91.
Enter the area code (without the "0") or the 10-digit mobile number.
Dial the local subscriber number.
For example, a caller in the UK dialing a landline in Mumbai (area code 022) would dial: 00 91 22 1234 5678.
Common Indian Area Codes
11: Delhi
22: Mumbai
33: Kolkata
44: Chennai
80: Bengaluru (Bangalore)
40: Hyderabad
Time Zone in India
India operates on a single time zone, Indian Standard Time (IST), which is UTC+5:30. This applies to the entire country, and India does not observe daylight saving time. Be mindful of this significant time difference when calling from Western countries.
Cost-Effective Calling Options
International calls to India can be expensive. Consider using internet-based calling services like Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice. These apps often provide free or very low-cost calling options over a Wi-Fi or data connection, making them a great alternative to traditional phone carriers.
