Watch Hotstar Outside India
Hotstar is one of the most popular streaming platforms, offering an extensive library of Indian TV shows, movies, live sports, and more. However, accessing Hotstar outside India can be challenging due to geo-restrictions. If you’re an Indian TV enthusiast or a cricket fan living abroad, you might wonder how to watch Hotstar outside India. This guide will walk you through the best ways to unblock Hotstar and enjoy its content from anywhere in the world.
Why is Hotstar Restricted Outside India?
Hotstar uses geo-blocking to restrict its content to viewers in specific regions. While Hotstar has launched in countries like the US and Canada, the content libraries differ significantly from the Indian version. Many of the Indian TV shows, Bollywood movies, and live sports events are exclusive to Hotstar India. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) becomes a game-changer.
Best Way to Watch Hotstar Outside India: Use a VPN
A VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions by masking your IP address and routing your connection through a server in India. This tricks Hotstar into thinking you’re accessing it from within India, unlocking its complete library.
For a detailed comparison of the best VPNs to access Indian TV shows, including Hotstar, check out our comprehensive guide to the best VPNs for Indian TV shows.
How to Watch Hotstar Outside India with a VPN
Follow these simple steps to unblock Hotstar and start streaming your favorite content:
- Choose a Reliable VPN: Select a VPN that has Indian servers and offers high-speed connections.
- Download and Install the VPN: Install the VPN app on your device. Most VPNs support multiple devices, including smartphones, laptops, Smart TVs, and tablets.
- Connect to an Indian Server: Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to a server located in India.
- Visit Hotstar’s Website or App: Go to the Hotstar India website or use the app. You should now have access to the full Indian library.
- Create or Log into Your Account: If you don’t already have a Hotstar account, sign up and choose a subscription plan.
- Start Streaming: Enjoy unlimited access to Indian TV shows, movies, and live sports!
Troubleshooting Tips for Watching Hotstar Outside India
If you encounter issues while trying to access Hotstar with a VPN, here are some quick solutions:
- Clear Cache and Cookies: Sometimes, old location data stored in your browser can block access. Clear your cache and cookies before visiting Hotstar.
- Switch Servers: If one Indian server doesn’t work, try connecting to another Indian server in your VPN app.
- Update the VPN App: Ensure you’re using the latest version of your VPN app to avoid compatibility issues.
- Contact Customer Support: Most premium VPNs offer 24/7 support to help you resolve technical issues.
Alternative Ways to Watch Hotstar Outside India
While a VPN is the most effective method, here are a few alternatives:
- Hotstar US or Hotstar Canada: If you’re in the US or Canada, you can access Hotstar’s regional versions. However, their libraries are limited compared to Hotstar India.
- Smart DNS Services: Some Smart DNS services can unblock Hotstar. However, they lack the encryption and privacy benefits of a VPN.
- Ask Family or Friends in India: If you have trusted contacts in India, you can use their credentials to access Hotstar.
Legal Aspects of Using a VPN for Hotstar
Using a VPN to access Hotstar’s Indian library is generally legal, but it may violate Hotstar’s terms of service. While VPN usage is not illegal in most countries, always use VPNs responsibly and ensure you comply with local laws.
Conclusion
If you’ve been wondering how to watch Hotstar outside India, using a VPN is your best option. With the right VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and unlock Hotstar’s full library, giving you access to Indian TV shows, Bollywood movies, and live sports events no matter where you are. For more information on the best VPNs to use, refer to our guide to the best VPNs for Indian TV shows. Follow the setup steps and start streaming today!
