Morbi, India

Capital City

This former princely state on the Kathiawar peninsula is the self-proclaimed "ceramics capital of India", home to a population of nearly 195,000. However, don't let the booming industry and local pride fool you - the city's infrastructure is struggling to keep up with its rapid growth. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the recent upgrade to a municipal corporation aimed at improving public services and planning. And while the city's location along the Machhu River, 35 km from the sea, provides an idyllic setting, the climate can be harsh, with scorching summers.

Morbi may appeal to those drawn to India's industrial heartland, but it's not for the faint of heart. Navigating the city's challenges requires a healthy dose of resilience and adaptability.