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Living in a metropolitan city is a dream for many. The metropolitan cities of India offer a number of job opportunities and a comfortable lifestyle. If you are planning to leave your current city and move to a big city for a better lifestyle, there are many options to choose from. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore are the top cities to consider for relocation. Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and Surat are other metropolitan cities that you can consider relocating to.
If you are moving to a metropolitan city for the first time, you will have to deal with many things. You will have to plan your move, find a good place to stay, find a job, and so on. But don't worry! If you have key information about the best metropolitan cities in India, you can make a better decision.
List of 10 Best Metropolitan Cities in India
In this blog, we will talk about the 10 best metropolitan cities in India that you can relocate to.
1. Delhi: The Capital City
Delhi, the national capital of India, is not only a political hub but also a thriving metropolitan city. This is the city where you can see a seamless blend of modernity and tradition. Due to its strategic location in the northern part of the country, Delhi has contributed to its historical significance over the centuries. Today, the city offers an array of opportunities to people from all over the world. It attracts both job seekers and entrepreneurs.
Key Highlights:
- Culture and Heritage: Delhi is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. Prominent historical landmarks in the city include Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Humayun's Tomb. These heritage monuments reflect the city's diverse architectural styles and influences.
- Education and Research: The city boasts some of India's most prestigious educational institutions. Prominent institutions include Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT).
- Culinary Delights: Delhi is a food lover's paradise. It offers a delightful range of street food and fine dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets.
- Connectivity: Delhi has a well-developed infrastructure for connectivity. With an extensive metro network and DTC buses, getting around Delhi is relatively convenient. Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and cabs are also available.
2. Mumbai: The City of Dreams
Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra, is also the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of India. It is home to Bollywood, the world's largest film industry. It has been one of the best metropolitan cities in India to live in. If you are enamoured with glitz and glamour, moving to Mumbai might be your best option. Mumbai’s fast-paced lifestyle and cosmopolitan culture have made it a popular destination for people who are looking to relocate to a metropolitan city. That’s not all. Mumbai’s excellent infrastructure and its flourishing economy have made it a magnet for people who are looking to make a career in the corporate world.
Also Read: How to Maintain Work-Life Balance in Mumbai
Key Highlights:
- Business and Finance: Mumbai is internationally known for its financial services. It is home to many financial organisations. Prominent ones are the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the National Stock Exchange (NSE), and financial sector regulators such as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
- Gateway of India: The Gateway of India is an arch-monument. It was constructed in the early 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George V. Due to its stunning architecture, this historical monument has been among the prime tourist attractions in Mumbai. The iconic monument overlooking the azure Arabian Sea symbolises the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Film Industry: Mumbai is worldwide popular for its film industry—Bollywood. It produces the largest number of films globally. The Bollywood industry itself offers numerous opportunities to people who are looking to make a career in the fields of acting, directing, singing, dancing, and other film-related activities.
- Marine Drive: Marine Drive, also called the Queen's Necklace, because of its location along the coast. It is a popular place for residents to go to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the sunset.
3. Kolkata: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, is a city steeped in history and culture. Formerly called Calcutta, it makes visitors feel a sense of nostalgia and charm. As the cultural capital of India, Kolkata has been a hub of intellectual and artistic pursuits for centuries. In addition, the city also offers excellent infrastructure and facilities to its residents. Today, it stands out as a metropolitan city that gracefully balances its rich heritage with modern advancements. You can consider Kolkata if you are thinking of relocating to a metropolitan city from a small town or village. The city won’t disappoint you.
Key Highlights:
- Literary Heritage: Kolkata has been home to some of India's most celebrated literary figures, such as Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray. Thus, the city has been a paradise for book lovers and intellectuals.
- Festivals and Celebrations: Festivals and celebrations are lifeline of Kolkata. The entire city is immersed in a celebratory mood during Durgapuja, the grand festival honouring the goddess Durga.
- Art and Handicrafts: The city is known for its exquisite handicrafts. The intricate artistry of Bengali sarees and terracotta works is popular across the country.
- Culinary Traditions: Kolkata is also famous for its delectable street food and sweets. Kolkata’s sweets like rasgulla, sandesh, and mishti doi are very popular.
4. Chennai: The Gateway to South India
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is a major city in India. It is the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu. If you are thinking of relocating to a metropolitan city from a small town, Chennai can be a good choice for many reasons. If you are a cultural buff, the city’s Dravidian roots and colonial influences along the Bay of Bengal’s Coromandel Coast will appeal to you. Chennai, today, is a popular vacation spot for academics, scientists, and artists due to its reputation for innovation in these fields. It is renowned for its contributions to the fields of education, technology, and the arts. These things make it an attractive destination for professionals and culture enthusiasts alike.
Key Highlights:
- Education Hub: Chennai houses several prestigious educational institutions. Popular ones are the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M), Anna University, and the Madras Medical College. Students from all over the country come here to pursue higher education.
- Classical Arts: The city is a patron of classical Indian arts. People from all over the country praise Bharatanatyam (dance) and Carnatic music. With numerous cultural events and performances held throughout the year, classical arts of Chennai are added attraction to the city.
- Marina Beach: The second-longest urban beach in the world, Marina Beach, offers a serene retreat and is a favourite spot for locals to unwind.
- IT and Automotive Industry: Chennai is a significant hub for information technology (IT) companies. It is also famous for its manufacturing centre for the Indian automobile industry.
5. Bangalore: India's Silicon Valley
Bangalore is the capital city of the state of Karnataka. It is fondly known as the Garden City of India because of its lush greenery and delightful climate. The beautiful metropolitan city has transformed into the country's leading IT and technology hub. This is why it is also called the IT capital of India or the Silicon Valley of India. The city's dynamic cosmopolitan environment, coupled with its thriving startup ecosystem, makes it a top choice for young professionals and entrepreneurs. Your move to Bangalore from a small town or village can be significant.
Key Highlights:
- IT Hub: Bangalore is home to a multitude of IT companies, including global giants such as Infosys, Wipro, and tech startups that have driven the city's reputation as India's Silicon Valley.
- Parks and Gardens: Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park offer a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
- Pub Culture: The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of pubs, breweries, and live music venues where residents can unwind after a long day.
- Startups and Innovation: Bangalore's startup ecosystem is thriving, attracting talent and investment from around the world, making it an ideal destination for aspiring entrepreneurs.
6. Hyderabad: The City of Pearls
Hyderabad, the capital of the Indian state of Telangana, is a metropolitan city steeped in history and renowned for its rich cultural heritage. It is a place where the old and the new coexist without a hitch. The city has a rich and varied history, from the reign of the Nizams to its present-day prominence as an international centre for information technology and business. In addition, it offers excellent infrastructure and facilities to its residents.
Key Highlights:
- Historical Landmarks: There are so many heritage sites and monuments in the city. Popular ones are Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Qutb Shahi Tombs. These historical gems narrate the city's glorious past.
- Hyderabadi Cuisine: Also known as Deccani cuisine, the cuisine of Hyderabad has a unique blend of different cultures and spices. Hyderabadis love their food and have a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Hyderabad's popular dishes include biryani, haleem, and keema pauva.
- Information Technology: Like Bangalore, Hyderabad is also known for its thriving information technology industry. HITEC City (Hyderabad Information Technology and Engineering Consultancy City) is a major IT hub.
- Film Industry: Hyderabad is also known for its own film industry—Tollywood, the Telugu film industry. It is a significant player in the Indian movie scene, producing a large number of films each year.
7. Ahmedabad: Where Heritage Meets Progress
Situated on the Sabarmati River’s banks, it is a beautiful city in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is known for its association with Mahatma Gnadhi and its textile heritage. Despite rapid industrialization, the city retains a rich historical essence. Today, Ahmedabad is a vibrant metropolis with a flourishing economy and a growing cultural scene.
Key Highlights:
- Sabarmati Ashram: Sabarmati Ashram is a historically significant location because it was where Mahatma Gandhi lived during India's fight for independence. The ashram is a reminder of Gandhi's ideals and a window into his philosophy.
- Textile Industry: The textile industry in Ahmedabad has been around for a long time. It has made significant contributions to the textile industry in India.
- Sabarmati Riverfront: With the completion of the riverfront project, the banks of the Sabarmati River are now a lovely promenade with gardens, parks, and entertainment areas for locals to enjoy.
- IIM Ahmedabad:
- The prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad is one of India's best business schools. It attracts talented students and professionals from all over the country.
8. Pune: The Oxford of the East
Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain ranges, Pune is a beautiful city and popular metropolis in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It has earned the nickname 'Oxford of the East' due to its reputation as an educational hub. It is also a popular city among IT professionals as it is home to many software companies, BPOs, and KPOs. The city not only has excellent infrastructure but also has a rich historical background and a delightful climate. The city's pleasant climate, historical landmarks, and growing IT and manufacturing industries make it an enticing choice for students and job seekers alike.
Key Highlights:
- Educational Institutions: Pune has a lot of well-known educational institutions. Popular ones are the University of Pune, Symbiosis International University, and many engineering colleges.
- Cultural Heritage: There are many historical and cultural heritage monuments in Pune. Sinhagadh Fortress, Aga Khan Palace, and Shaniwar Wada are popular heritage sites in the city. The Aga Khan Palace, where Mahatma Gandhi was held during the Quit India Movement, is a significant historical monument in the city.
- Climate: Pune's moderate climate, especially during the winter months, makes it a comfortable place to reside in.
- IT and Automotive Sector: Pune's economy has diversified, with significant contributions from the IT industry and manufacturing, particularly the automobile sector.
9. Surat: The Diamond City
Surat, the Diamond City, is a beautiful city and metropolis in the Indian state of Gujarat. Located on the banks of the Tapi River, the city has earned the nickname 'the diamond city' due to its diamond cutting industry. Sometimes, the city is also called the “Textile City,” as it is one of the biggest textile hubs in the country. The city's economy has grown quickly because of its strategic location and the success of its textile and diamond industries.
Key Highlights:
- Diamond and Textile Industry: Surat is a major global hub for diamond cutting and polishing. It plays a significant role in India's diamond trade. It is also renowned for its thriving textile industry.
- Cuisine: Surat is famous for its delectable street food, including the iconic Surati Undhiyu and Locho, which attracts food enthusiasts from all over.
- Economic Opportunities: The city's thriving industries offer abundant job opportunities and entrepreneurial prospects.
- Shopping: Surat is a shopaholic's paradise, renowned for its vibrant markets and bustling shopping districts.
10. Jaipur: The Pink City
As the capital of the colourful state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a city that mesmerises with its splendid palaces, rich culture, and vibrant traditions. Lovingly known as the “Pink City” due to the peach-coloured buildings in the old part of the city, Jaipur offers a regal lifestyle with a blend of modernity. Here you will not only find outstanding infrastructure, but you will also feel royal and ground-rooted.
Key Highlights:
- Historical Monuments: Jaipur boasts an array of historical monuments and heritage sites. Popular ones are the City Palace Complex, Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Rambagh Palace, Govindevji Temple, and Galta Temple.
- Art and Craftsmanship: Jaipur's arts and crafts are worldwide famous. You can explore Jaipur’s exquisite handicrafts at the Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and other colourful markets. Block printing, ble pottery, and intricate Rajasthani jewellery are specialties of Jaipur’s arts and crafts.
- Festivals:
- Jaipur celebrates its cultural heritage through colourful festivals. People here celebrate their festivals with great zeal and enthusiasm. Popular festivals celebrated in Jaipur are Jaipur Literature Festival, Elephant Festival, and Gangaur Festival.
- Hospitality and Tourism: The city's hospitality industry and tourism sector have been thriving. It offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors and residents alike.
Wrapping Up
In this blog, I have highlighted key features of the top 10 metropolitan cities in India to settle down in. Each city offers a unique experience and diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth. From the political and historical significance of Delhi to Mumbai's cosmopolitan energy and Kolkata's rich cultural heritage, these cities showcase India's incredible diversity.
Bangalore's innovation-driven landscape, Chennai's celebration of classical arts, Hyderabad's blend of tradition and technology, Ahmedabad's thriving economy and historical significance, Pune's status as an educational hub, Surat's prominence in the diamond and textile industries, and Jaipur's regal heritage and cultural vibrancy all contribute to the tapestry of experiences awaiting residents.
Whether you seek job opportunities, quality education, historical landmarks, gastronomic delights, or a vibrant arts scene, these metropolitan cities have something for everyone. Embrace urban life and settle down in one of these dynamic cities to paint a new chapter in your life's adventure. Happy exploring, and may your chosen city become the canvas of your dreams! Happy relocation in advance!
A copywriter, blogger, content strategist by profession, and an information junkie by heart. I have a penchant for reading, researching, writing, and anything related to creating persuasive content. For me, writing is something that ignites my creativity and helps in keeping me on cloud nine. I have been working in the content writing domain since 2006. Be it blogging or copywriting, I create better content that fuels conversations and skyrockets search traffic.