Jamnagar, India

Capital City

With a population of 479,920, Jamnagar is a major industrial hub, but don't expect a life of ease. The tax burden is heavy, as the city's 5,000 large-scale and 10,000 small-scale brass workshops export their wares globally. And while the nearby ports of Rozi and Bedi provide economic opportunities, the region's erratic monsoons - ranging from less than 100 mm to over 1,500 mm annually - can be a persistent headache. For those drawn to Gujarat's rich culture and craftsmanship, Jamnagar may be worth considering, but the bureaucratic hurdles and intense heat are not for the faint of heart.