As an expat planning to move to India, the first question that might arrive in your mind is “Which city is the most Expat friendly moving destinations to relocate in India that I should call home?”

The country of multitudes, with 4000 cities, 121 languages, and 1369 dialects, India is a vibrant and thriving country, which, through its many different faces, pays homage regularly to the visages of life.

From the Garhwal mountains to the Hampi ruins and from the hustle and bustle of maximum city, Mumbai, to the dreamy islands of Andaman & Nicobar, India is a hidden gem that contains untold surprises for those wishing to live here.

Being the second-most populated country in the world and the seventh-largest country by area, India is an eclectic fusion of contrasting lifestyles and numerous opportunities. Currently experiencing an economic swell of its own due to the resurgence of its information technology and manufacturing industries, India has slowly become a coveted destination for expats looking to relocate here.

However, faced with hordes of choices, this decision can turn out to be overwhelming. Here, we present a list of the top five expat friendly destinations in India that you can call your new home.

1. Mumbai

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It’s no surprise that maximum city, Mumbai, is the first on the list. Long hailed as the economic and financial capital of India, Mumbai is home to 12 million people.

The best bet for anyone who wants to make it big, Mumbai harbors all of the potential opportunities one might find in other global megacities, such as London, Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai, etc.

Perhaps the most defining trait of Mumbai is its uniqueness among other cities on this list. While still very Indian in all its facets, Mumbai is the melting point of cultures, both its own and those that were borrowed by the numerous communities that settled here. Courtesy of this, its native cuisine is an eclectic mix consisting of everything from coastal to continental food.

Among other things, it has a fantastic climate to live in too. The city has a tropical climate that is warm all year long, except for the monsoons that are sprightly and thoroughly ephemeral. And though operating in an entirely different spectrum to that of Western cities, the cultural life of Mumbai is equally vibrant and diverse and is home to a large number of cinemas, concerts, art shows, film festivals, theatres, and more.

2. Bangalore

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Known as the Silicon Valley of India due to the recent burgeoning and emergence of technology-led startups, Bangalore is home to around 8% of India’s total expat population. Harbouring countless work opportunities, Bangalore has upstaged Mumbai as the most desirable city of expats to live in.

Despite the economic swell that was brought about by the industrial movement, the cost of living in Bangalore is comparatively more affordable than other metropolitan cities on this list. And with work opportunities abound, it is also a rapidly-developing city replete with one of the best nightlife haunts that India can offer.

Due to its geographical location, Bangalore has the advantage of both a moderately warm climate and proximity to the verdant and scenic locations of Ooty, Goa, Gokarna, Hampi, Chikmagalur, Varkala, and more.

3. Pune

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Pune is the ninth-largest city of India and is a manufacturing and IT hub. While not as upscale or as desirable as the other entrants on this list, it has a host of advantages that makes it an attractive destination for expats. More affordable in terms of lodging and boarding as compared to New Delhi and Mumbai, Pune is also veritably more relaxed.

Located close to the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the climate of the city oscillates between pleasant springs, moderately warm summers, and cool monsoons.

What’s more, it’s also a three-hour drive from Mumbai and has a higher quality of life than its cousin. In fact, the international benefits company, Mercer, ranked Pune above both Mumbai and New Delhi when it came to the quality of living.

While the city has a more relaxed nightlife, it has more scenic escapes such as Lonavala, Khandala, Tamini, Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, and more. The native cuisine of the city is fascinating, and it is home to various forts of the glorious Maratha empire. History beckons you here.

4. New Delhi

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Despite the national capital battling heavy traffic, air pollution, and tourism challenges, most expats choose New Delhi as their home. Offering an anesthetic mix of Indian culture, Western high-life, upscale amenities, and countless other perks, New Delhi is still the most popular expat destination.

Forever engaged in a tussle with Mumbai over the title of India’s best city (Delhiites will have you say it’s Delhi), New Delhi offers a stark contrast to its more affluent compatriot. The city can be both affordable and expensive.

The nightlife of the city is also extremely vibrant and is home to music festivals, art galas, science exhibits, and more. Contending over proximal escapes, New Delhi often claims the win due to being close to places like Rishikesh, Kasol, Manali, Shimla, and Mcleodganj.

5. Goa

Video Source: Narkasur in Goa

If you are relocating to India for some peace and quiet and are looking to stray from the racket of city life, Goa is the place to be. Among the most popular beach destinations in the world, Goa is flush with graceful stretches of the coast that meet the sea. It is one of the more affordable places too, and, depending upon your lifestyle, can have you live a laid back life with plenty of amazing views.

Of the other talking points of Goa apart from its sceneries is its food that is a delightful blend of European, continental, Portugues, native Goan, and coastal cuisines. Its European roots are also on full display in its capital Panjim. The city has numerous spice plantations, flea markets, and secluded beaches.

Due to the constant influx of people looking for recreational activities and expats coming in over from different areas of the world, the Goan people have a deep-seated warmth and openness about them. It’s also due to this and the fact that English is widely spoken there that the atmosphere of it is fun-loving and relaxed, which is also why Goa it’s called the hippie heaven.

Conclusion

The future potential of India is very upbeat and enormous. If you are an expat looking for a new destination to relocate to and settle in, these Indian cities offer a great many things to be your next home. If you are still unsure of where to make your future home and need help deciding every aspect of your living there, contact us today.