Hassan, India

Capital City

With a population of just 133,436, Hassan is a sleepy backwater, far removed from the glitz of India's major metros. The city's tropical savanna climate may be mild, but the bureaucratic headaches are anything but - expect drawn-out paperwork and slow-moving government agencies. While the Hoysala Empire's architectural legacy remains, the modern city lacks the vibrancy of other Karnataka destinations. Unless you're seeking a quiet, rural retreat, Hassan is unlikely to satisfy the needs of most expats.