Nagaon, India

Capital City

With a population of just 147,137, Nagaon is a mid-sized city in Assam that lacks the infrastructure and amenities of larger metros. While the area has seen developments under British colonial rule, including tea plantations and modern education, bureaucracy remains a persistent headache. The city's climate has earned it a ranking as the 25th best "National Clean Air City" in India, but the Kolong River that divides Nagaon also creates pockets of swampy wetlands. Overall, Nagaon may appeal to those seeking a quieter, more provincial life in northeastern India, but it's unlikely to satisfy big-city expats.