Allahabad, India

Capital City

With a population of over 5.9 million, Allahabad is a sprawling, dense metropolis in Uttar Pradesh that demands resilience. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache. Air pollution levels are among the highest in the world, making the city's sweltering, humid summers a health hazard. Yet Allahabad remains a hub of culture and history, drawing visitors from across India and the world. Those seeking an authentic, no-frills Indian experience may find this city to their liking.