Muradabad (Moradabad), India

Capital City

Brass handicrafts and a booming informal economy are the lifeblood of Moradabad, home to 887,871 people. But behind the glitz of its metalwork exports, the city's bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the high noise and air pollution levels make it a tough place to live. With nearly half the population Muslim, Moradabad's "Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb" of Hindu-Muslim coexistence has weathered turbulent times, including a major 1980 riot. If you can handle the red tape and environmental challenges, Moradabad's centuries-old craftsmanship and vibrant cultural fusion could make it a rewarding place to explore.