Six cities to consider if you're moving to India

Pune

Nicknamed the "Capital of Culture", Pune is the second largest city in the state of Maharashtra. It is also one of the safest cities in India with a low crime rate compared to other regions. Pune has nearly 1,600 years of history. Current major infrastructure projects suggest that the city is now unstoppable regarding development and modernisation. Pune benefits from excellent connectivity thanks to a vast transportation network, including an international airport. Over the years, its landscape gave way to a bustling business hub. It is also home to many universities, higher education institutions, and research centres. Many multinational companies have also opened offices there and are ready to welcome skilled foreign professionals. The expansion of industrial and technological parks have attracted international brands such as Volkswagen and Daimler among many others. Pune also offers a pleasant climate with three seasons while temperatures rise to 40 °C maximum. You can enjoy a wide range of leisure activities in Pune, including music, theatre, and art, during your free time.

Navi Mumbai

Stretching over 344 km², Navi Mumbai, also known as "New Bombay", is a twin city of the capital. It is also one of the largest planned cities in the world, with all the infrastructure and facilities guaranteeing quality of life. Navi Mumbai currently has an extensive network of public transport, including buses, trains, and rickshaw, but it shall soon have its airport like all major Indian cities. Navi Mumbai stands out due to the presence of large green spaces that contribute to providing a clean and healthy environment to its inhabitants. Unlike Mumbai and neighbouring cities, no factories or industries are present – which also means that there is less pollution in Navi Mumbai. Due to the growing demand for commercial and residential real estate, many development projects are underway. Jobs are also plentiful in Navi Mumbai thanks to the expansion of technology parks and the presence of large national and multinational companies.

Mumbai

Mumbai is not only India's capital city but also a major business and financial hub. Nicknamed the city that never sleeps, Mumbai a favourite expat destination, mainly because of the various career prospects available. Let's not forget that Mumbai is one of the world's largest financial hubs, offering a high standard of living to its inhabitants, even though poverty is still seen and felt in some neighbourhoods. In recent years, the city made significant progress, especially in the field of technology. Jobs are also available for foreign professionals in the manufacturing, finance, and services sectors. Mumbai is far from being a green city; however you can still find parks and playgrounds in some areas like Malabar Hill. Population growth also led to the expansion of the real estate market. Like most major Indian cities, Mumbai enjoys excellent connectivity with extensive air, land, and maritime transport networks. The birthplace of Indian cinema, Bollywood, Mumbai also offers an exciting social and cultural experience with a wide range of entertainment for each and everyone.

Tirupati

Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is a famous pilgrimage spot. The Tirumala Temple is one of the most visited shrines in India. One of the most populous cities in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati offers an unparalleled quality of life to its inhabitants. Besides historical and religious sites, the city is also home to many educational institutions and prestigious universities. The government of India recently selected Tirupati to be part of a major smart city development project. Needless to say that the city has an excellent infrastructure and a vast transportation network that connects to neighbouring metropolises and the rest of the country. While the local economy mainly relies on tourism and hospitality, other sectors such as electronics, industry, and technology have developed significantly in recent years, so opportunities are abundant for foreigners looking to work or to set up their own business there. Tirupati is also a medical hub thanks to the presence of some of the largest and most well-equipped hospitals in India.

Chandigarh

Chandigarh is a new city built after the independence of India in 1947. Located in the States of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a fast growing city that has been attracting expatriates for various reasons. World famous for its urbanism, Chandigarh been designated several times the happiest and cleanest city in India. With an immense historical and cultural heritage, not to mention its striking architecture, natural landscapes with parks and gardens, as well as wildlife, Chandigarh can boast of an excellent quality of life. As a modern city, it also stands out regarding education thanks to its many universities, some of which are considered among the best in India. With some of the country's best hospitals, Chandigarh is another important medical hub. Enjoying good connectivity, Chandigarh is a safe city with a vibrant nightlife. Regarding the cost of living, Chandigarh is more affordable compared to other Indian cities.

Thane

Close to Mumbai is Thane, another of India's most populous cities. Stretching over 147 km², Thane can boast of its excellent connectivity and prosperous economy – which is why it is such an attractive destination for foreigners seeking new opportunities in India. To improve the standard of living of its inhabitants, Thane has recently implemented a series of projects, including the launch of a mobile app for its citizens to access local administrative services. Moreover, Tel Aviv is currently supporting Thane in its transformation into a smart city. The booming real estate is proportional to the demand in commercial and residential units. Thane also offers a wide range of leisure activities for all tastes thanks to its magnificent temples, national parks and lakes surrounded by hills. If you're about to move there with your family, you can also choose from a range of schools and higher education institutions.