What Plug Does India Use?
View CountryIndia uses mainly Type C and Type D plugs, with Type M also commonly found; the electrical supply is 230V at 50 Hz. Most travellers will need an adapter unless they use continental European plugs, and everyone should check device voltage before plugging in.
Plug Types
Do I Need a Travel Adapter for India?
Visitors from the US & Canada (A/B), UK & Ireland (G), Australia & New Zealand (I) and Japan (A/B) will need an adapter to fit Indian sockets. Travellers from continental Europe (C/F/E) do not need an adapter, and local Indian plugs (D/C) of course fit. Buy a travel adapter or a universal adapter that accepts your home plug and provides compatibility with Type C and Type D outlets, and ideally Type M as some places use the larger three-pin M socket.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Plug adapter | Voltage converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | Needed | Not needed |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | Not needed | Not needed |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | Needed | Not needed |
| India | Type D/C | Not needed | Not needed |
| Japan | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
Do I Need a Voltage Converter in India?
India supplies 230V at 50 Hz. Many modern phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and will work without a converter, just an adapter. Single-voltage appliances like some hair dryers and straighteners may require a converter or a travel appliance rated for 230V. People from the US, Canada and Japan (100-120V mains at home) should check their devices; travellers from the UK, Europe and Australia do not usually need a converter.
India Plugs and Sockets Explained
Type C is the CEE 7/16 Europlug: two round pins, unearthed, and listed as a primary plug in India. Type D is the old British BS 546: three round pins in a triangular pattern, earthed, and is also a primary plug. Type M is the larger BS 546 15A variant with three large round triangular pins, earthed, and is common in many locations. You will encounter C and D most often, with M appearing in some outlets.
Tips for Charging Your Devices in India
- Pack a universal adapter that covers Type C, D and M sockets.
- Check each device charger for 100-240V marking before assuming it will work.
- Bring a small travel power strip with surge protection if you have several devices.
- For hair tools, buy a 230V model or use a proper converter rated for the appliance.
- Keep chargers and adapters with you, as wall outlets can be limited in some places.