Kolhapur, India

Capital City

Forget about the city's grand history or spiritual significance - the reality of living in Kolhapur is a mixed bag. While it boasts a higher per capita domestic product than the state average, the municipal corporation faces persistent headaches, with the city limits stuck at 1972 levels, limiting access to government schemes. And with heavy monsoon rains that frequently lead to severe flooding, Kolhapur's climate is a double-edged sword. Still, with a population of 549,236 and a Human Development Index rating of 0.770, this industrial hub could appeal to those seeking an affordable base in Maharashtra with a bit of grit.