Welcome, digital nomads! If you’re looking for your next hub, then India is a destination you might not have considered, but absolutely should. It’s a land of diverse cultures, vibrant cities, fascinating history, and a burgeoning tech scene. Plus, it’s a haven for digital nomads looking for an affordable place to live and work.
Reasons to Choose India if You’re a Digital Nomad
5 Reasons to Travel to India for Digital Nomads:
- Diversity: India is incredibly diverse, with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, cuisines, and traditions. This diversity can offer a rewarding and enriching experience.
- Affordability: The cost of living in many Indian cities is relatively low compared to Western countries. This affordability extends to accommodation, food, and transportation.
- Thriving Tech Scene: India has a booming tech industry with numerous startups, tech events, and coworking spaces, making it an ideal place for digital nomads in the tech industry.
- Natural and Historical Attractions: From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, from ancient temples to colonial architecture, India is full of natural and historical attractions.
- Friendly and Hospitable People: Indians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, which can make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
5 Reasons Not to Travel to India for Digital Nomads:
- Pollution: Some Indian cities struggle with high levels of air and water pollution, which could be a concern for digital nomads prioritizing their health.
- Internet Speed: Although internet speed in major cities is good, it can be unreliable in some rural areas.
- Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in urban areas and among educated people, communication can be a challenge in rural areas where regional languages are predominantly spoken.
- Cultural Differences: The cultural practices and norms in India might be significantly different from what a digital nomad is accustomed to, which could lead to a culture shock.
- Traffic and Noise: Indian cities can be quite chaotic, with heavy traffic and high noise levels, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Top Underrated Cities for Digital Nomads in India
Pune: The Oxford of the East
Pune, often referred to as the “Oxford of the East”, is a vibrant city located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. With its eclectic mix of modernity and traditional influences, it has become a major hotspot for digital nomads around the world.
Pros
- Educational Hub: Pune is home to numerous prestigious educational institutions, including Savitribai Phule Pune University, making it a hub of intellectual discourse and creative ideas.
- Vibrant Tech Scene: With several tech parks like Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park and numerous startups, Pune is fast becoming a tech-savvy city.
- Quality of Life: Pune has a balanced lifestyle with green spaces, an array of restaurants, and a rich cultural scene with music, theater, and festivals.
- Climate: Pune enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, making it comfortable for living and working.
Cons
- Traffic: Like most Indian cities, Pune also faces traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Air Quality: During certain months, particularly in winter, the city can experience poor air quality.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Pune is relatively low compared to other metropolitan cities in India. On average, you can expect the following costs (in USD):
- Apartment rent (1 bedroom) in city center: $200 – $300 per month.
- Monthly pass (Local Transport): $10 – $15.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $3 – $5.
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 – $15 per month.
For more detailed information, check out Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Pune.
Nomad Grab Score: 8/10
Despite some drawbacks, Pune scores an 8 out of 10 as a destination for digital nomads. The city provides an appealing mix of affordable living, a thriving tech scene, and a great quality of life. Its status as an educational and cultural hub offers digital nomads a unique and enriching experience. If you’re looking for a city that offers more than just a workspace, Pune should be high on your list!
Coimbatore: The Manchester of South India
Coimbatore, fondly known as the “Manchester of South India”, is situated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Known for its textile industry, this city is rapidly emerging as a hub for digital nomads due to its unique offerings.
Pros
- Growing Tech Scene: With TIDEL Park and a number of tech startups, Coimbatore is carving a niche in the tech industry.
- Proximity to Natural Beauty: Coimbatore is close to several tourist attractions like the Nilgiri Hills, Isha Yoga Center, and various wildlife sanctuaries.
- Climate: The city enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate, making it comfortable for most of the year.
- Culture and Cuisine: Coimbatore offers a rich culture and traditional Tamil cuisine, providing a delightful experience to its residents.
Cons
- Language Barrier: While English is widely understood, Tamil is the local language and you might face some language barriers.
- Infrastructure: While improving, the public transportation and city planning still have room for progress.
Cost of Living
Living in Coimbatore is quite affordable. Here are some approximate costs (in USD):
- Apartment rent (1 bedroom) in city center: $150 – $200 per month.
- Monthly pass (Local Transport): $10.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 – $4.
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 – $15 per month.
For more details, you can refer to Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Coimbatore.
Nomad Grab Score: 7.5/10
Coimbatore scores a 7.5 out of 10 as a digital nomad destination. Despite some challenges, its growing tech scene, proximity to natural beauty, and affordable living make it a great choice for digital nomads seeking a blend of work and leisure. Its rich cultural heritage adds to the charm, making your stay here both productive and enriching.
Jaipur: The Pink City
Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” for its distinctive color of buildings, is the capital of Rajasthan, a state in northern India. This city is steeped in history and culture, providing a vibrant and inspiring backdrop for digital nomads.
Pros
- Cultural Hub: Jaipur is rich with historical landmarks such as the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. The city is also renowned for its art, music, and dance.
- Growing Tech Scene: The city is also embracing modernity with a growing tech scene, fostering innovation and offering several co-working spaces.
- Tourist Attraction: With its blend of history and culture, Jaipur is a major tourist destination. Digital nomads will find plenty of sightseeing and leisure activities.
- Cuisine: Jaipur is a paradise for food lovers, with its Rajasthani cuisine gaining popularity worldwide.
Cons
- Heat: Jaipur can get quite hot in the summer, with temperatures soaring over 40°C (104°F).
- Tourist Scams: As a popular tourist destination, be cautious of tourist scams.
Cost of Living
Jaipur’s cost of living is quite affordable. On average, you can expect the following costs (in USD):
- Apartment rent (1 bedroom) in city center: $100 – $200 per month.
- Monthly pass (Local Transport): $5 – $10.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 – $4.
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 – $15 per month.
For more detailed information, check out Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Jaipur.
Nomad Grab Score: 7.5/10
Jaipur earns a score of 7.5 out of 10 as a destination for digital nomads. The city is a perfect blend of history and modernity, offering digital nomads a unique opportunity to work amidst rich culture and heritage. While the city can get hot in the summer, the overall low cost of living, growing tech scene, and vibrant culture make it a worthy consideration for digital nomads.
Mysore: The City of Palaces
Mysore, officially known as Mysuru, is a charming city located in the southern state of Karnataka, India. Known for its royal heritage and majestic structures, Mysore is an enticing choice for digital nomads who love a touch of culture with their work.
Pros
- Cultural Capital: Mysore is renowned for its Dasara festival, palaces, and the traditional Mysore Silk and Mysore Masala Dosa. This makes for a rich and vibrant living experience.
- Quality of Life: Mysore offers a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. It’s surrounded by nature and has well-planned, clean, and less congested roads.
- Yoga Hub: Mysore is a global yoga hub, home to renowned yoga centers like the Ashtanga Yoga Institute, making it perfect for digital nomads focusing on a healthy lifestyle.
- Climate: Mysore enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year.
Cons
- Limited Nightlife: If you’re a fan of late-night parties and clubs, Mysore might not be the best fit. The city has a quiet and early-to-bed lifestyle.
- Language Barrier: While English is commonly understood, the local language, Kannada, is predominantly spoken. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.
Cost of Living
Living in Mysore is more affordable compared to many other Indian cities. On average, you can expect the following costs (in USD):
- Apartment rent (1 bedroom) in city center: $100 – $200 per month.
- Monthly pass (Local Transport): $7 – $10.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 – $4.
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 – $15 per month.
For more detailed information, check out Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Mysore.
Nomad Grab Score: 7.5/10
Mysore scores a 7.5 out of 10 as a destination for digital nomads. It’s a great place if you’re looking for a slower, more relaxed pace of life, with a touch of culture and heritage. The city might lack the bustling nightlife of metropolitans, but its peaceful ambiance, affordable cost of living, and close-knit community feeling make up for it. For digital nomads valuing tranquility and cultural immersion, Mysore is a great choice.
Chandigarh: The Green City
Chandigarh, known as “The City Beautiful”, is one of India’s most well-planned cities, characterized by its greenery and unique architectural design. This city, located in the northern part of India, presents a blend of modernity, serenity, and a rich cultural heritage.
Pros
- Quality of Life: Chandigarh is known for its high standard of living, cleanliness, and well-planned infrastructure. It is also the cleanest city in India.
- Thriving Tech Scene: The city has a thriving IT industry with a well-established IT Park hosting numerous tech companies and startups.
- Greenery: With an abundance of gardens, parks, and lakes, Chandigarh is considered one of the greenest cities in India.
- Climate: Chandigarh enjoys a moderate climate, although it can get quite cold in winter.
Cons
- Lack of Nightlife: Compared to cities like Mumbai or Bangalore, Chandigarh has a quieter nightlife.
- Language Barrier: While English is understood by many, the primary language spoken here is Punjabi. This could pose a slight challenge for non-Punjabi speakers.
Cost of Living
While Chandigarh offers a good standard of living, the cost of living is quite affordable. Here are some average costs (in USD):
- Apartment rent (1 bedroom) in city center: $150 – $200 per month.
- Monthly pass (Local Transport): $10 – $15.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 – $4.
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 – $15 per month.
For more details, visit Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Chandigarh.
Nomad Grab Score: 8.5/10
Chandigarh scores an 8.5 out of 10 for digital nomads. Despite some minor drawbacks, the city offers a great quality of life, affordable living, and a growing tech scene. If you’re seeking a clean, green, and peaceful city for your digital nomad journey, Chandigarh could be your ideal destination!
Conclusion
India, with its diversity, affordability, and thriving tech scene, is an exciting destination for digital nomads. While cities like Mumbai and Bangalore are popular choices, there are many underrated cities like Pune, Coimbatore, Jaipur, Mysore, and Chandigarh that offer great opportunities for digital nomads. So why wait? Explore these cities and make India your next digital nomad destination!
FAQs
What is the best time to visit India?
- The ideal time to visit India is during the winter season, from November to March.
Is internet speed good in India?
- Yes, major cities and towns in India have excellent internet speed.
Is it safe to travel to India as a digital nomad?
- Absolutely! However, like any other destination, it’s advisable to take standard travel precautions.
What’s the average cost of living for a digital nomad in India?
- It varies depending on the city, but generally, you can live comfortably for around $500 to $800 a month.
Are there coworking spaces in these underrated cities?
- Yes, these cities offer numerous coworking spaces that cater to the needs of digital nomads.
